Business
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A clog’s life
Talla clogs are produced in a barn in Myrskylä. Originally workwear for the medical profession, they are now a high-street hit thanks to a collaboration with a Japanese designer.
Happy new world
As Monocle turns two, we reflect on our origins and unveil subtle brand tweaks. We continue to champion small businesses, local firms and far-flung regions in an ever-more homogeneous world.
Light bulb moment
Formerly a light bulb manufacturer, Shotoku began making hand-blown glassware in the 1950s. Today its ultra-thin Usuhari glasses are the toast of the town. And it still continues to innovate.
Snow houses
Since 2007, the Colombian government has made over €50m from selling property confiscated from drug barons. Around 1,200 buildings are currently waiting to be sold, plus a large collection of shoes.
El Korba, Heliopolis
Amid Cairo's glorious chaos, this Heliopolis suburb offers elegant arcades, bookshops and flower stalls — proof that the Egyptian capital's charms reward those who look closer.
Mine field
Wars and volcanoes have made Goma a dangerous place to call home. But with fragile peace in the DR Congo, traders and pilots are arriving, lured by the region’s vast mineral wealth.
Market force
This month we start a new series that decodes the DNA of success – of anything. First up is a San Francisco food store that has become an urban sensation.
Observation
We think governments wondering how to stimulate consumer spending should create a new merchant class focused on innovation, service and tantalising hungry customers. By Tyler Brûlé.
What crisis?
While Wall Street sweats, some businesses are thriving. From Beirut bankers to London publishers, Monocle looks at the firms bucking the market and finding new opportunities during the economic crisis.
Conflict managers
The Iraq war was big business for US military contractors. As the withdrawal of troops from the region becomes imminent, these firms are now looking to Africa as the next lucrative source of revenue.
