Debut ‘Cannes Collection’ Draws Widespread Praise

Mixing together the best in yachts, cars, art, aviation, interiors and lifestyle, Cannes Collection featured 60-plus high profile brands displaying their opulent wares in front of an international clientele hailing from across the world.

The event had the atmosphere of a discreet private sale for the selection of 60-plus brands on display. This relaxed and welcoming setting gave exhibitors and visitors time to talk among themselves, as well as seeing and feeling the products on display.

Visitors interested in purchasing one of the yachts on show were able to take sea trials – a highly unusual offer at such an event – and the experiential 'try before you buy' proposition crossed over to motorbikes, helicopters and cars, too.

Each of the companies exhibiting was carefully selected by the show’s founders, Eric de Saintdo and Bertrand Foäche, for their unique qualities and outstanding position in the luxury sector.

De Saintdo said of the inaugural event: "We are thrilled with how the four days of Cannes Collection 2016 unfolded […] There has been an overwhelming sense of positivity from all those who took part – both exhibitors and visitors – on the potential for growth with this new concept.

“The Cannes Collection will always be put together with the buyer in mind, ensuring we keep the quality of brands on show high, not to mention in a combination unlike anything you will find elsewhere."

He continued: "Although the show is physically laid out around the yachts, of which we had 43, this is not a 'yacht show' in the sense that we will never become a trade show with technical products on display; everything has to be interesting to the buyers.

“We have carefully chosen a variety of brands and sectors, and will continue to do so in the future. It's about finding something different and unique, not just something with an exclusive price tag."

A number of exhibitors reported sales, or strong interest, in the products on display, including artworks, fashion items, prestige cars, as well as superyacht builders Sanlorenzo and Sunseeker, the latter receiving an offer for its 28-metre yacht on display, as well as an enquiry for building two further superyachts.

Organisers claim a number of brands have already started booking for next year’s event, both as returning exhibitors and new ones.

The next edition is set to take place in June 2017, though there are expected to be a number of dynamic and innovative complementary events and collaborations between the organisers and a range of partners over the coming 12 months.