Group 1 - LVMH's Maison Francis Kurkdjian and L'Oréal's Aesop have closed their first stores in China, highlighting challenges faced by some high-end fragrance brands in the market [1][2] - The closure of these flagship stores, which were established with high expectations in 2022, raises questions about the brands' adaptability to the Chinese market and potential missteps in their commercial strategies [2][3] - Other high-end brands like Estée Lauder's Frederic Malle and Byredo are thriving in China by employing diversified channel strategies and building emotional connections with consumers [2][7] Group 2 - Maison Francis Kurkdjian, founded in 2009 by renowned perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, initially gained traction but struggled to maintain its presence in China due to high pricing and limited marketing engagement [3][4] - The brand's flagship product, "Baccarat Rouge 540," priced at nearly 2000 yuan for 35ml, may deter price-sensitive consumers who opt for cheaper alternatives [4][5] - Experts suggest that the brand needs to redefine its strategy in China to foster deeper emotional ties and enhance consumer loyalty [5][8] Group 3 - The Chinese fragrance market is experiencing significant growth, with a market size of 20.7 billion yuan in 2023, reflecting a 22.5% year-on-year increase, and is projected to reach 51.5 billion yuan by 2029 [7][8] - International brands like Chanel and Dior dominate the high-end market, while local brands such as To Summer and Documents are carving out niches through cultural relevance and innovative marketing [7][8] - The success of fragrance brands now hinges on their ability to create unique consumer experiences and emotional connections rather than merely relying on product quality [9]