From the Middle East to the Big Apple, Kuwaiti jewelry brand Octium has just launched in New York at iconic retailer Bergdorf Goodman.
In an interview with Style.com/Arabia, Fahad Al Hajri, CEO of Octium Jewelry explained that about 35 different pieces were selected for the initial order. “Based on its audience, Bergdorf didn’t really select our entry-level pieces and instead chose some of our more high-end items. The prices range from around US $1,000 and go up to around US $500,000 for one of the diamond necklaces.”
On the decision to proceed with Bergdorf, Al Hajri commented that, “There’s some pressure that comes with being sold by a retailer with the legacy of Bergdorf Goodman, but we wanted to start with the best. I think we had been on their radar for some time, but they approached us in November of last year and wanted to see the latest collection. They liked what they saw and decided to buy.”
And so far, it appears that customers are pleased, as well. “Within the first day alone, 10% of the first order had already been bought, so Bergdorf put in a refill order. We didn’t expect that, and we hadn’t even finished delivering the full initial order—but it’s a good problem to have,” Al Hajri added.
Al Hajri tells us that the U.S. is the next key market for the brand, but the brand will proceed through retail distribution partnerships initially rather than opening its own spaces. In addition to its presence in New York, Octium is also sold in Palm Beach, Florida and actively exploring distribution opportunities in Texas and California. Other markets outside of the U.S. are also in consideration; internationally, Octium has been previously distributed by Harrods in the UK and Harvey Nichols in Kuwait, along with its own boutique at Kuwait’s 360 Mall—an Art Deco and Art Nouveau inspired space designed by Spanish artist Jaime Hayon.
Octium was founded by Kuwaiti husband and wife team, Fahad Al Hajri and Alanood Al Sabah.
—Elisabeta Tudor
