Branding for a business is not just about the visual identity of their collateral it is also about the initial impressions when you enter their space. The design of these office interiors gives an impression of the company you will be dealing with. The impression is they care about detail, contemporary design, have innovative and creative ideas. Not only is this beneficial for clients but also creates a great working environment for staff.

These companies have created a statement. You walk into their space and the experience immediately creates trust and enthusiasm to work with them. It’s a talking point and a story that people will pass on.

The prediction for 2011 is for growth in sales of luxury brand products like Gucci, Burberry and Louis Vuitton. This has been forecast by Bain & Company, a consultant firm who produce an annual study on the luxury brand market. The main reason for the growth is the demand in China by the newly rich looking to promote their wealth through buying luxury products.

The strategy for growth by Versace and Max Mara is to invest heavily in marketing to the Chinese consumer. Gucci has also been successful in introducing their brand to this market by making their products accessible through the design of simple wallets and accessories. Both Gucci and Louis Vuitton have been the most successful luxury brands in China. The key to their success is understanding the tastes and habits of their new consumer.

Luxury brands had record sales in 2007, but the prediction for 2011 is for sales to outperform this record. Leather bags, jewellery, shoes and watches are forecast to see the biggest demand and growth.

The highest profile tennis players greatly influence the sales of fashion brands. They are chosen to market a brand not only for their tennis skills and performance but also for their personality, charisma and appeal to their fans. Their beauty, style, cuteness and appeal are all marketing tools that are used by brand managers.

Tennis players used to wear white, simple outfits as the whole focus was on their tennis. There used to be strict regulations and guidelines around their dress code. Now, tournaments like the Australian Open are watched not only for their tennis but also for the fashion. The outfits are colourful with new and interesting designs to create attention, inspiration and sales.

The fans connect to a player’s sense of style and personality and are highly influenced by what they’re wearing. During the Australian Open, the tennis fashion brand, Lacoste who sponsors Roddick, notices a huge increase in their product sales every time he plays a match. His fans are inspired by his look and Lacoste sells anything he wears.