In the style of a proper emperor, as his name suggests, the official launch of makeup maestro Napoleon Perdis’ collection at Melbourne’s Myer last Tuesday was an epic one, as he entered Bourke Street perched on an ex-military tank.
Joining the King of Colours’ grand entrance to the Myer store, that blocked traffic and saw thousands of shoppers join the spectacle, was former Miss Universe and face of Myer Jennifer Hawkins.
Perdis’ long awaited Myer launch was far from your expected media launch. Between a four course meal that included lipstick and eye shadow-like garnish, Napoleon, dressed in a metallic blue leather suit, celebrated the launch of his collection in Myer like a proper Greek son.
To the rhythms of DJ Krazy Kon, Napoleon, his wife Soula-Marie and model Jennifer Hawkins led a Zorba dance around the tables, joined by VIPs and media heavyweights as Greek music filled the retail giant’s Mural Hall in Bourke Street.
Born to Sydney immigrant parents and takeaway food store owners John and Liana Perdis, Napoleon Perdis built his $100 million worth cosmetic empire from scratch.
Today, his cosmetics are sold in 23 countries, in some of the world’s best retailers, including Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman.
In Australia, his brand was available only at David Jones where it was the top selling cosmetics brand. In July, the retailer’s exclusive contract with Napoleon Perdis ended, as the makeup king decided not to renew the agreement. That’s when Myer’s management took over – and with Tuesday’s epic launch of the Perdis collection, the rest is history.
At the launch, Myer CEO Bernie Brooks said $10 million had been allocated to get the Napoleon brand rolling at Myer, and counters are now in 61 Myer stores.