MAHŌ
About MAHŌ
Interestingly, MAHŌ made its debut at Life Instyle Sydney in 2020, just before the onset of COVID-19. The brand was founded with the vision of reimagining traditional incense through a modern, design-led approach. Rooted in the timeless allure of scent and smoke, MAHŌ emerged as a response to the growing desire for sensory experiences that combine calm with contemporary sophistication. Our aim was to create products that evoke emotional resonance while seamlessly elevating everyday rituals and spaces.
How do you identify and incorporate retail trends into MAHŌ’s product offerings?
Rather than relying on retail trends, we design and develop products that fulfill our personal needs and creative visions. For instance, our modern take on incense was born from a love of its calming and mindful qualities, coupled with a desire to move away from the overpowering, traditional scents commonly available at the time. We deconstructed and reimagined incense to deliver sophisticated fragrances that induce calm and relaxation, bridging the gap between incense and scented candles. This led to the rebranding of “incense” to “Sensory Sticks,” removing outdated connotations and redefining the category.
More recently, we launched our highly anticipated glassware range, focusing on stylish yet practical everyday items. The Happï Pill Carafe and Cup was inspired by a desire to move beyond the mundane water bottles on bedside tables. We went back to the drawing board to create a piece that’s both functional and a showstopper, and the Happï Pill was born.
With customer preferences constantly evolving, how does MAHŌ stay relevant and meet current retail demands?
Staying relevant is a delicate balance of innovation and authenticity. We actively engage with our community to understand their needs while staying true to our design philosophy. For example, events like Life Instyle are vital touchpoints, allowing us to connect with buyers twice a year and gain insights into what their customers are looking for. This feedback helps us create products that feel both timeless and on-trend, blending traditional craftsmanship with fresh design ideas.
Can you share any upcoming products or collections from MAHŌ that attendees at Life Instyle Sydney should keep an eye out for?
Attendees can look forward to our newly launched Happï Pill Carafe and Cup, a design-forward piece that fuses playful aesthetics with everyday functionality. We’re also showcasing our Cuddle Cup, the most stylish way to enjoy your tea or coffee on the go, and our Chá Pot, a playful kaleidoscope of color and design. Additionally, we’re unveiling two new fragrances in our timeless incense collection, each embodying MAHŌ’s dedication to artistry and sensory refinement.
Why is Life Instyle an ideal platform for showcasing MAHŌ?
Life Instyle attracts an audience that appreciates craftsmanship, innovation, and design, making it the perfect stage for MAHŌ. The event allows us to connect with like-minded retailers and industry professionals who value the art of creating meaningful, sensory-driven experiences.
How does MAHŌ balance staying on-trend with maintaining a unique brand identity?
Our balance lies in an unwavering commitment to our core values: sensory refinement, artisanal craftsmanship, and timeless design. While we remain aware of broader trends, every product is grounded in MAHŌ’s unique perspective, ensuring originality and authenticity. The word “MAHŌ” means “magic” in Japanese, and our tagline, “A Little Magic,” reflects our intention to infuse every product with wonder and charm.
What role do industry events like Life Instyle play in MAHŌ’s marketing and product strategy?
MAHŌ doesn’t engage in traditional marketing, so events like Life Instyle are crucial for connecting with retailers, showcasing the quality of our products, and understanding market demands. These events allow us to present new collections, receive direct feedback, and strengthen relationships within the retail and design communities.
Could you tell us about any new retail trends or industry shifts you’re particularly excited about?
We’re thrilled by the growing emphasis on multi-sensory design and wellness-driven products. Consumers increasingly seek items that enhance emotional well-being while also reflecting their personal aesthetics. This shift aligns perfectly with MAHŌ’s ethos of blending sensory indulgence with sophisticated design.
How does customer feedback from events like Life Instyle help shape MAHŌ’s future products or brand direction?
Customer feedback at Life Instyle is instrumental in shaping our future. This direct dialogue helps us understand evolving preferences and retailer needs, allowing us to refine our products and develop innovations that resonate with our audience. It’s an invaluable resource for staying relevant and impactful.
What does MAHŌ believe is the key to building strong connections with retailers, and how does Life Instyle support that vision?
Strong connections are built on trust, authenticity, and shared values. At MAHŌ, we focus on open communication and delivering exceptional quality, ensuring our retail partners feel supported and inspired. Life Instyle creates a curated, intimate environment that fosters meaningful relationships and collaboration, perfectly supporting our vision for long-term partnerships.
