A$AP Rocky Named First Creative Director of Ray-Ban
Music star and fashion icon A$AP Rocky has made headlines this week as Ray-Ban has officially appointed him as their first creative director, marking a significant milestone for the renowned eyewear brand.
The multifaceted artist, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, is known for his influential presence across multiple industries, from music to fashion. This collaboration, announced recently, captures the brand's shift toward integrating contemporary culture with its strong artistic heritage. Rocky’s vision aims to steer Ray-Ban Studios toward fresh creative endeavors and innovative design perspectives.
“I have always respected Ray-Ban for their authenticity and their commitment to evolve,” said A$AP Rocky. “I am super excited to be part of this priceless artistic legacy and to help craft the next chapter of the iconic brand.” The collaboration has been met with excitement, as Rocky plans to design unique eyewear frames and to serve as the creative director for upcoming campaigns.
Citing nearly 80 years of Ray-Ban’s influence on musicians, artists, and cultural icons, Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio, president of Ray-Ban, stated, “Ray-Ban transcends the eyewear industry; it's not just a brand, it's a lifestyle. We define and change the existing paradigms and continue to lead cultural direction.” Del Vecchio welcomed Rocky, highlighting his remarkable talent to break down barriers within diverse worlds, aligning perfectly with Ray-Ban’s identity.
The special collection set to debut in Spring 2025 will blend classic designs with modern aesthetics, showcasing the seamless integration of music, fashion, and artistry. This collaboration exemplifies the brand's dedication to remaining at the forefront of contemporary trends.
Meanwhile, the Bangkok-based company BLC, known for its health and cosmetics products, has announced its record financial results for the fourth quarter of 2023. The firm reported revenues of 423 million baht and net profits of 54.8 million baht, reflecting growth of 7.0% and 9.4% compared to previous periods, crediting this success largely to its collaboration with notable partners and innovative marketing strategies.
The CEO of BLC, Suwit Ngamphuphan, emphasized the importance of the company’s commitment to product quality and market expansion. “The notable growth reflects our strategic push to increase brand awareness through influencers and aggressive marketing,” he stated. BLC’s overall revenue for the year reached 1.55 billion baht, marking a 10.7% increase, with profits hitting 176.1 million baht, growing by 16.8%.
The company has outlined its growth strategy for 2024, focusing on enhancing distribution channels, particularly through e-commerce platforms, and introducing new health-related products, including supplements targeting the pet market amid the rising trend of pet humanization.
With plans to develop new manufacturing facilities and invest in clean energy, the growth prospects for BLC appear optimistic. “We remain steadfast on our path to becoming Thailand’s leader in pharmaceuticals and health products, both locally and internationally,” said Ngamphuphan.
Both A$AP Rocky's venture with Ray-Ban and BLC's ambitious plans signal exciting developments within Thailand's celebrity and business landscapes. Rocky's artistic pursuits could redefine accessory trends, whilst BLC's focus on innovative health solutions aligns with contemporary consumer interests. These events reflect the dynamic interplay between culture and commerce as both entities move forward with inspiring visions.