The Third Apple in Asia: The Big Apple Macau. When you think of Apple, images of cutting-edge creativity and groundbreaking technology likely come to mind. But in Macau, there’s another Apple making waves—and it’s not what you might expect. Welcome to The Big Apple, an exclusive concept store that’s redefining the retail experience in this bustling city.
Curating a curated selection of international brands from BEAMS to UGG, The Big Apple is more than just a store; it’s a narrative of style, culture, and craftsmanship. Also, As K-pop style takes over the streets of Macau, The Big Apple is tapping into the global trend, blending East and West in perfect harmony. With its carefully curated collections, this boutique is a key player in the city’s growing fashion scene.
What motivated you to start your store, The Big Apple, in Macau?
Billy: Yes, maybe I should talk about why we call it “The Big Apple.” For me, I really appreciate apples because they have a big influence on pop culture. First, Apple Computers—they revolutionized technology with their design and marketing, and their products like the iPhone, iPad, and iPod became phenomena that really impacted our generation. I also think of Apple Records, which was started by The Beatles. They were the first global phenomenon in the 60s to influence pop culture after the war. When we started our store, we wanted to be the third “apple” from Asia, something that could influence pop culture here.
We wanted to name it “apple,” but we thought, what kind of apple? Then, I heard the phrase “The Big Apple” in a movie and thought it was a great name—easy to remember, and it also had a meaningful connection to New York City, which is a melting pot of cultures. It seemed like the perfect name for our store. That’s why we chose it, and 10 years ago, we started The Big Apple to be a platform for different cultures and creativity.
What kind of experience do you want to create for customers when they buy clothes from your store?
Billy: We really appreciate the culture of select stores in Japan, where people go to discover interesting pieces, new brands, and hear stories from the staff. In Macau and other parts of Asia, people often go to stores because of famous brands, not because of the store’s selection. We want to change that. Like stores in Japan, we want to share the story of the brand, why the designer is good, why the fabric is special. It’s not just about the label; it’s about the story behind the product. We want our customers to understand why they should buy this, why it’s a good product, and what makes it special.
What are your standards for curating the brands in your store?
Billy: First, the brand must have a good story. There are many products on the market at different price points, but we want to sell products that have meaning and quality behind them. We believe customers should understand why they’re paying more for something—it’s not just about the look, but about the designer’s effort and the materials used. So, our first selection criterion is the story behind the brand. Second is quality. These two principles are very important for us. We also focus on new, exciting brands that are pushing the boundaries. If something new is good, we want to try it.
Is there any brand story in your store that has left a lasting impression on you?
Billy: Yes, there are a few. One is Beams Japan. Beams is not just about selling clothes—they connect with local craftsmen and artists, blending traditional Japanese techniques with modern design. It’s a great way to showcase Japanese culture and share it with the world. Another brand I really admire is Porter Yoshida. They’ve been around for over 90 years, and their focus on making the best bags for their customers is something I truly respect. Their dedication to quality is inspiring.
What are some current fashion trends or emerging brands in Macau?
Billy: In Macau, like in China and Hong Kong, we are heavily influenced by Japanese and Korean cultures. Korean pop culture—K-pop, Korean movies, Korean style—has become a mainstream influence in fashion. Many Korean brands are doing very well in Asia. But it’s not just about Korea or Japan. We’re also influenced by our local culture in Macau, and because we are in the heart of Asia, we blend influences from Japan, Korea, China, and Southeast Asia. It’s a fusion of cultures, and that fits perfectly with the philosophy of The Big Apple.
Have you faced any major challenges in the process of establishing your store?
Billy: Yes, especially after COVID-19. During the pandemic, people got used to buying online, and we had to rethink the role of physical stores. Why should people come to a store when they can just buy online? We realized that a physical store should offer an experience, not just products. It’s about the atmosphere, the staff, the story. We need to be more than just a place to buy things—we need to be a space where people can discover, learn, and experience something new. That’s the challenge and the opportunity in today’s retail world.
What advice would you give to people who want to start their own business in the fashion industry?
Billy: Think twice, and then think again. Fashion is not an easy industry. Right now, there isn’t much innovation in fashion compared to technology. It’s hard to create something new and gain attention in such a competitive field. But with social media, it’s easier than ever to start your own brand if you have a strong idea or design. There are both opportunities and challenges. You need to be ready for both.
Think twice, and then think again.
