On December 11, GUVET，a leading Chinese down jacket brand, forged a strategic partnership with École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), one of the world’s foremost scientific and academic institutions. This collaboration marks GUVET fourth Global Luxury R&D Center within the international research ecosystem, taking a pivotal advancement in its integration into global innovation networks and the development of its China-Europe dual-track R&D framework. By aligning with the world-class intellectual hub, GUVET is positioned to convert frontier scientific capabilities into sustained competitive momentum, inaugurating a new chapter of global R&D collaboration and sharing standard-setting. As a premium brand emerging from China onto the world stage, this action has drawn widespread attention and recognition from authoritative media.
A group photo of GUVET team and EPFL KNOVA members
Anchored in a World-Leading Research Platform: The Resonance of China-Europe Dual-Track R&D/ A Dual-Track Innovation Path
In today’s high-end market, breakthrough innovation often comes from global collaboration. By partnering with EPFL, GUVET strengthens its access to cutting-edge technology and international expertise. Through EPFL’s innovation platform KNOVA – previously served top brands like LVMH – GUVET integrates into a top-tier scientific network, enhancing its R&D credibility worldwide. This cooperation reflects a shared vision between science and premium craftsmanship. As the first Chinese down jacket brand featured at Paris Fashion Week, GUVET has secured place in the global luxury market with its “Black Gold Standard.” EPFL contributes cutting-edge technology, while GUVET offers market insight and premium craftsmanship. Together, they are defining “top research and application” model that sets new standards for the fusion of technology and aesthetics.
Kevin Wu, founder of GUVET, shares GUVET insights at the meeting
Fusing Innovation with Humanity: Redefining Luxury for European Elites
In an era of intensifying global competition, technological prowess defines a brand’s reach while human-centered vision defines its depth. The partnership between GUVET and EPFL extends beyond technological advancement—it is built on what can be described as a “human-centered” philosophy. GUVET is committed to wearer-centered design, from premium down to sustainable, comfort-driven technologies. This human-focused approach has been favored by discerning connoisseurs, including members of European nobility such as the Duke of Rutland’s family and the House of Ligne, as well as the French artist Laurence. For them, GUVET represents more than exceptional outerwear—it embodies an experience that is deeply understood and thoughtfully crafted. Where Moncler epitomizes the enduring European luxury code, GUVET builds its ethos on “technological warmth and cultural resonance,” curating a lifestyle for the European elite that blends a global outlook with human-centered warmth. Nicolas Henchoz, Founding Director of the EPFL Laboratory, appreciates this vision. Together, GUVET and EPFL will draw inspiration from Après-ski and blend Eastern aesthetics with cutting-edge innovation. In this way, they aim to co-create a new expression of luxury that speaks to the global elite.
Grace Zhang, co-founder of GUVET, presents the craftsmanship of BlackGold Down Jacket
Elevating “BlackGold Standard”: A New Paradigm for Globalization of Chinese Luxury Brands
The deep collaboration between GUVET and EPFL has not only strengthened its competitive edge built on “BlackGold Standard,” but also reshaped the global pathway for Chinese high-end brands. From partnering with Chinese Academy of Sciences and Innovation Research Institute to integrating resources of Global Luxury R&D Centers and now establishing a presence within EPFL’s research ecosystem, GUVET has built a cross-continental innovation community spanning China and Europe.This breakthrough also signals that Chinese luxury brands are transitioning from being global market “participants” to becoming “definers.” Representing the rise of Chinese luxury brand on the global stage, GUVET collaborates with international partners to define the future of high-end outdoor living with sustainable innovation and resonant design, thereby contributing to the global discourse as a leading voice in China’s premium brand evolution.
