The New Norm by GABRIEL HALL
It is undeniable that Calgary has seen enormous growth in the last decade. Even when faced with the global economic downtown of 2008, Calgarians hunkered down and kept moving forward. Calgary’s insatiable climb upwards is visibly illustrated on a 17th Avenue patio on a summer’s day. One such beersoaked afternoon, I counted two Aston Martins; one Vantage, one DB9, two Lamborghini Gallardos, seven Porches of various models, a Ferrari 430 and a 458, and three Bentley Continentals GTs passing by. The world may still be stumbling along, but Calgary certainly hasn’t slowed down because of it. Marie-Pierre Gonneville of Charton Hobbs has certainly recognised this as well. Charton Hobbs is the local face for the premium wines, spirits and beers portion of the LVMH Group, one of the world’s leaders in luxury goods, spanning everything from fashion to alcohol. “We are seeing a more consistent demand year over year, compared to the historical trend. People are demanding value in what they are paying for. They don’t necessarily want to see a discounted product but want
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to ensure they are getting the best quality product at a reasonable price”, Gonneville observes. As Calgarians continue to see rises in their disposable incomes, they are increasingly willing to open their wallets to purchase items which are deemed to be of value. Gonneville notes that in 2012 they have seen demand for champagne and Scotch rise between five and seven percent. Demand for cognacs like Hennessy, and premium vodkas
like Belvedere, are increasing a commanding sixteen and twenty percent respectively. Champagne brands like Moët & Chandon and Dom Pérignon, which were once considered just for special and celebratory occasions, are now being bought throughout the year. “Calgary’s economic success is attracting people coming from all over the world and Canada.” Gonneville continues, “A big part