Demise of the European Craftsman

To complete the idea of Europe as one glittering jewel-box of a theme park, with its denizens costumed players, Europe’s luxury goods makers are alarmed that numbers of skilled craftsmen (like this man here who is meauring out your Birkin) – prized by dressmakers, perfumiers and watchmakers for their expertise – are dwindling rapidly as suppliers have sourced more production from Asia. (Sourve: The Financial Times)
"China makes up less than 10 percent of the global US$206 billion luxury-goods industry, and even if its share grows in step with the buying power of Chinese consumers, it could take several years before it has a chance of surpassing the sector's more mature markets in the US, Europe and Japan." - Shanghai Daily