The search for regional products for small, innovative businesses is often time-consuming. How can local producers, start-ups, and small manufacturers bring their goods to customers as authentically as possible without taking on a lot of risk? Quite simple: They rent a “Fachl” for a limited period of time – a fruit crate measuring 50 cm × 40 cm × 30 cm.

In the Italian lagoon city, a stone’s throw from the Rialto Bridge and right on the Grand Canal, DFS – a pioneer in luxury travel retail (founded in Hong Kong in 1960) and now part of the LVMH Group – has set up shop. The curated selection of around 750 brands includes fashion, accessories, beauty, and jewelry, as well as food, wine, and gift items. Most of the products are made by local artists. The assortment of “La Corte al Fondaco”, a kind of high-end marketplace, changes regularly and is a great opportunity to pick up small gifts before leaving the building.

I recently discovered the social concept store “SCHÖN&GUT” at Preßgasse 28 in Vienna-Wieden. As I drove by, the displays communicating with the viewer aroused my curiosity. Inside, I was not disappointed–unique products made sustainably and with social responsibility are lovingly presented. Customers are greeted warmly, you already feel welcome when entering!

In the city that is returning to vibrant life and where anything is possible, you’ll also find one of my absolute favorite stores, right on West Broadway, in the middle of SoHo: Flying Solo. Elizabeth Solomeina, a Russian-born jewelry designer and sculptor, teamed up with about 30 other creatives in 2016 to start this marketplace for unique fashion pieces.