mondrianvendingmachineThe Modrian South Beach hotel in Miami now features an automated gift machine aimed at replacing hotel boutiques.

Designed by Mari Balestrazzi, this semi-automatic machine carries luxury items such as 24k gold handcuffs from Kiki de Montparnasse (now that’s an interesting gift!), Fred Flare heart sunglasses and a 14k gold necklace by Kiel Mead – to mention just a small portion of its range.

With vending machines coming back into fashion (after the demise of the automat in the 50’s), its interesting to see them make the leap into the luxury arena.

Airport Retail and the Psychology of Stress: What Makes Travellers Spend?

Airport Retail and the Psychology of Stress: What Makes Travellers Spend?

That overpriced chocolate bar at Gate 14 wasn’t about hunger—it was about control. In this in-depth essay, we explore how Mood Repair Theory explains airport retail behaviour, especially in high-stress domestic terminals, and what airports can learn from global best practice to meet travellers’ emotional needs.