French luxury store Galeries Lafayette shuts Beijing flagship after 13 years

French luxury retailer Galeries Lafayette closed its Beijing flagship store after 13 years, highlighting weakened consumer spending and shifting shopping habits in China.

Wed May 27 2026

Beijing flagship closes due to weak China spending

French luxury retailer Galeries Lafayette closed its flagship Beijing store on Wednesday after 13 years. This move underscores weak consumer spending and changing shopping habits in China. Shoppers purchased final bargains as staff cleared unsold goods and dismantled displays at the six-floor department store before its indefinite closure.

Shifting consumer trends in China

The closure of Galeries Lafayette's store suggests a shift in luxury consumption trends within the Chinese market. With consumer sentiment dampened and new shopping methods like online retail gaining prominence, traditional brick-and-mortar stores face challenges. This event is likely to prompt global luxury brands to re-evaluate their strategies for the Chinese market.

*Source: France24 (2026-05-27)*

Tags: #Galeries Lafayette #China #luxury #consumption #economy