EXCLUSIVE: Burç Akyol, Jeanne Cadieu and Lyas Join Alexandre Mattiussi on ANDAM Jury

Why It Matters

By pairing emerging designers with top‑tier business and digital experts, ANDAM is positioning itself as a launchpad that aligns creative talent with the commercial realities of the global luxury market.

Key Takeaways

• New jury blends designers, business leaders, digital experts
• €700k endowment translates to ~$756k supporting emerging talent
• Zalando and Karla Otto join as corporate partners
• Winners receive mentorship covering creative and business strategy
• Focus on commercial viability reflects shifting luxury market dynamics

Pulse Analysis

The ANDAM fashion prize, founded in 1989, has long served as a springboard for nascent designers in France and beyond. This year’s jury marks a strategic evolution, integrating a mix of creative talent—such as Burç Akyol and Jeanne Cadieu—with seasoned business minds like Ami Paris CEO Nicolas Santi‑Weil and digital influencers from Zalando. By assembling a panel that mirrors the interconnected nature of today’s fashion ecosystem, ANDAM signals its commitment to nurturing designers who can thrive across runway, retail, and online channels.

Financial backing is a cornerstone of the competition, with a total endowment of €700,000 (approximately $756,000). The Grand Prize of €300,000 (~$324,000) and the runner‑up award of €100,000 (~$108,000) provide crucial runway capital, while targeted mentorship from industry veterans such as Alexandre Mattiussi ensures winners receive guidance on brand positioning, supply‑chain logistics, and growth strategy. This dual focus on creativity and business acumen reflects a broader industry trend where emerging labels must demonstrate both artistic vision and viable profit models to attract investment.

The addition of corporate partners Zalando and Karla Otto underscores the growing importance of digital distribution and strategic communications in fashion. Zalando’s involvement promises winners access to a pan‑European e‑commerce platform, facilitating rapid market entry, while Karla Otto offers expertise in brand storytelling and media outreach. Coupled with an Innovation Prize aimed at sustainable technology, the 2026 ANDAM prize not only rewards design excellence but also equips winners to navigate a fragmented, digitally‑first luxury landscape, setting a new benchmark for talent development in the sector.