Tiffany Japan Takes On Christ

[Mulboyne]

National Jeweller: Tiffany names Christ head of Japan business
NOVEMBER 30, 2004 - New York -- Tiffany & Co. has named Michael C. Christ, 55, president of Tiffany & Co. Japan Inc., the company announced Monday.
Christ will replace Katsuhiko Nitta, who will return to New York and resume his role as vice president of Tiffany's international division. Christ joined Tiffany in 1995 and has most recently served as the company's group vice president of U.S. retail sales.

[Taro Toporific]

Oh Bejebbus!

I was hoping for a report and pictures of the crucified upsidedown Santa-Jesus in a Tokyo store window display for Christmas.
Yes, yes I know it is the stuff ofurban legend. Nobody will believe me, but I swear on stack of Korans that I saw one in 1986 in the open mall walkway of south Shinjuku station.

[Mulboyne]

Now we now why they made the change...
Thestreet.com: Japan Tarnishes Tiffany
Tiffany's fourth-quarter earnings doubled from a year ago, boosted by a gain booked on the sale of a diamond mine stake. Excluding the gain, earnings were better than expected, although the company forecast soft first-quarter results. The company said it expects earnings will be "somewhat below 25 cents a share" due to "challenging conditions in Japan and the effect on gross margin from precious metal and diamond cost increases." Analysts were expecting 27 cents a share.

[FG Lurker]

[Mulboyne]

Presumably Christ thinks attack is the best form of defence

IDEX: Tiffany to Open Two New Locations in Japan

Tiffany & Co. plans to open two new locations in Japan next month, in Osaka and in Yokohama. The two-level, approximately 5,400 gross-square-foot Osaka store, opening on September 7, will be located in the new Shinsaibashi Sogo department store, at 1-8-3 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka. Three days later Tiffany will open an approximately 2,000 gross-square-foot boutique in the Yokohama Takashimaya store located at 1-6-31 Minami Saiwai, Nishi-ku. Both locations will combine modern design elements with architectural details of Tiffany's famous New York flagship store, including stone and marble facade, and stainless steel framed glass showcases and vitrines. Among the array of exclusive designs offered will be the jeweler's celebrated diamonds in platinum and eighteen-karat gold settings, fine and engagement jewelry, watches, sterling silver jewelry, and a selection of accessories and gifts. "These new locations represent great opportunities for growth," said Michael C. Christ, president of Tiffany & Co. Japan, Inc. "In southern Osaka, we have a superb space in a new building of luxury retailers, and our new Yokohama boutique is ideally situated in a vibrant shopping area."

[FG Lurker]

[Mulboyne]

Christ appears have worked a miracle:

Tiffany & Co. said Wednesday its first-quarter profit rose 7.7% despite sluggish U.S. jewelry sales, as business in Japan and other markets overseas was better than expected...Sales at Tiffany's stores in Japan - which account for nearly one-quarter of the company's business - were up 15% on solid demand for engagement rings, silver and gold, watches, midprice fashion jewelry and high-end designer jewelry. In addition to new products and marketing, Tiffany is turning around its Japanese business by relocating and remodeling boutiques and retraining its sales force.