The plans were outlined in the Swiss watch giant’s 2013 annual report, which revealed the company would apply its expertise in watch manufacturing and distribution to “further develop [Harry Winston’s] potential” in the timepiece segment.
According to the report, “The result of these synergies will start to become more visible in the coming year at the BaselWorld trade fair, with the relocation of Harry Winston to a more prominent position on the ground floor of the fair and the introduction of new products.”
Increased global visibility for the brand was another area of interest highlighted in the report, which will be achieved through the expansion of Harry Winston’s retail distribution network in key markets, as well as a number of marketing and communication initiatives.
An intention to further expand Harry Winston’s high-end jewellery segment over the next two years was also noted.
As previously reported by Jeweller, Swatch acquired the jewellery and watch division of Harry Winston for US$1 billion (AU$1.08 b) in early 2013.
Swatch chair Nayla Hayek said the acquisition “[added] a dimension that was lacking in Swatch Group until now,” adding, ”With Harry Winston, we are no longer talking about products, or more precisely objects, which can only be produced through human ingenuity.”
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