Walpole British Luxury Summit 2026 | OBS Highlights

TIMELESS DESIGN AND CULTURAL RELEVANCE

Burberry CEO Joshua Schulman spoke about the enduring value of truly timeless design, emphasising that relevance today comes from a deep understanding of heritage combined with cultural awareness. Rather than following trends, he highlighted the importance of staying anchored in core design principles and evolving them thoughtfully for modern audiences. This belief, that longevity is built through clarity, restraint and confidence, closely aligns with how we approach our work.

PERSPECTIVE ON MARKET CONDITIONS AND BRITISH CREATIVITY

Jane Hamilton, Senior Business Journalist at The Times, offered a broader view of the market, reminding us that periods of instability have always existed, from the 1970s through the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, and that current conditions are no worse than many businesses have faced before. She reinforced the global appeal of British design, which continues to be admired for its creativity, personality and originality. Her reflection on The Times doing less but doing it better strongly resonated with our own approach at OBS, prioritising focus, quality and meaningful work over volume.

STAYING TRUE TO BRAND DNA AND GEN Z EXPECTATIONS

Bain & Company’s insights into global trends reinforced the importance of brands remaining true to their DNA, particularly in an increasingly values driven landscape. They supported the growing consensus that Gen Z audiences have clear expectations around transparency and authenticity and respond best to brands that demonstrate consistency between what they say and what they do.

QUIET LUXURY, EMOTIONAL RESONANCE AND THE ROLE OF AI

Amrita Banta spoke about the continued rise of Quiet Luxury, describing it as confident rather than loud. A form of luxury that has nothing to prove and is driven by emotional resonance rather than overt statements. Mathilde Haemmerlé addressed the role of AI, framing it as a tool to amplify human creativity, not replace it. Used well, AI can support day to day tasks and free up time for deeper thinking and a more considered creative journey.

BRINGING SLOW LUXURY TO LIFE WITH BELMOND

Gary Franklin, Senior Vice President, Trains & Cruises at Belmond, shared how, through both craft and the dedication of their exceptionally passionate teams, Belmond is bringing Slow Luxury to life. Their approach invites guests to discover a more unhurried pace of travel, where time and space allows them to reconnect with place, people and the moments that matter most. A philosophy rooted in presence.

SUPPORTING LONDON AND LOOKING FORWARD POSITIVELY

Tom Athron, CEO of Fortnum and Mason, closed with a reminder of the importance of championing London, its creativity, energy and global significance. His message was one of optimism, encouraging businesses to remain positive, invested and vocal in their support of the city. It was a timely reminder of London’s enduring strength as a cultural and creative capital, and the role we all play in sustaining it.

Across the day, the strongest and most consistent theme was the importance of craft and creativity. Whether discussed through timeless design, quiet luxury, brand authenticity or the role of technology, the message was clear: enduring value is created throughcare, skill and considered decision making. Craft is not about nostalgia or slowing progress, but about building with intention, integrity and confidence. In a constantly shifting market, it remains the foundation that allows us all to stay relevant, trusted and emotionally resonant over time.

Thanks as always to Helen Brocklebank, Charlotte Kessing and the wonderful team at Walpole for making the day so thoughtfully curated and inspiring.

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