Retail Focus Magazine #120 by Retail Focus

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2021 #120 www.retail-focus.co.uk @retailfocus

retail focus next level

Moncler recently announced the relocation of its Los Angeles boutique to a new space in Rodeo Drive

Retail Focus cover August 21.pdf

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contents

CONTENTS

FOLLOW RF: 25k+

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29 CHAUMET CELEBRATING - NETWORKING - WINNING

a night like no other

25 BALLY 11-15

News

37 Moncler 29-31

Project Focus

30LOOKNOW 40-43

Chaumet

17-19

FEATURE

34-35

Department Stores

25-26

Project Focus Bally

Project Focus

Project Looknow

45-49

products

opinion

Mango

37-38

Project Focus Moncler

14th OCTOBER 2021 PROUD, LONDON

Thomas Fletcher, Sigma

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Photo Credit: SLVHCS ‘Project Legacy’, New Orleans, USA © Sean Airhart/NBBJ

LEADER

welcome

#120

Another case of “blink and you’ll miss it”, the summer has come and gone as quickly as it arrived, and we find ourselves facing autumn and the busy build-up to the festive season. Yes, it really is that time of the year again! Whether its producing POS for Halloween and Bonfire Night, or even promoting your pre-Christmas sales offers, there is plenty to be done over the next few months to ensure you are ready for the rush. Aside from this prep, there is plenty else to get excited about this autumn. The shortlist for the 2021 Creative Retail Awards was recently announced and is now available to view online at CreativeRetailAwards.com. Those lucky to be nominated for awards will find out if they have been successful when the winners are announced at Proud Embankment on October 14 – something we are looking forward to greatly! Very much like the summer, the festive season will also have passed before we even know it and we’ll be looking forward to 2022 and what the next 12 months might bring. One of the early highlights will be the Creative Display and Design Connections event, which has been confirmed by February 10th at Bounce in Old Street in London. Registration is open now at CDDConnections.com. Before all that, you can enjoy getting your teeth into this issue of Retail Focus, where we have plenty of exciting and innovative projects to explore. These include a Bally’s new flagship store on London’s Regent Street, celebrating the company’s incredible 170-year history. Also in London, we take a look at the Chaumet boutique on New Bond Street that aims to bridge British elegance and Parisian distinction, while Mango’s new flagship shop on Oxford Street is its first store in the UK to feature its new store concept, incorporating elements of Mediterranean style and culture. We also take a peek at Sò Studio’s recently launched the LOOKNOW flagship store over in Xintiandi in Shanghai, as well as Moncler’s relocated Los Angeles boutique in the prestigious shopping neighbourhood of Beverly Hills. Enjoy this issue!

EDITOR

Terry Clark terry@retail=focus.co.uk +44 (0)330 0535 024

Lee Cullumbine lee@retail=focus.co.uk +44 (0)330 0535 024

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EVENTS

DIARY

VIEW

THE

FUL

L DIA

CREATIVE RETAIL AWARDS

Proud Embankment, London, UK 14 October 2021

The Creative Retail Awards recognise and reward excellence in retail. Moving away from the traditional awards ceremony the Creative Retail Awards offer a night full of exuberance. The Awards span a number of disciplines, including store design, Visual Merchandising, inspired technology, Omni-channel innovations, bar and restaurant design, shopfitting and much more. The Awards will be judged by a panel of industry leaders and experts. creativeRawards BOOK TICKETS at www.creativeretailawards.com

MAPIC CANNES, FRANCE 30 nov - 2 Dec 2021 MAPIC has always been at the leading edge of the retail revolution, constantly adding new location-based elements while remaining true to its core mission to bring retailers, developers, cities, investors and specialists together to understand, embrace and drive forward amazing lifestyle destinations, attracting attendees from more than 80 countries.

CONNECTIONS BOUNCE, LONDON 10 FEBRUARY 2022

VM & Display Show bdc, LONDON 5-6 april 2022

Creative Design & Connections provides an element of fun and networking as well as one-to-one meetings. The quirky setting of Bounce Old Street, London, will let suppliers and buyers soak up the atmosphere, play some ping-pong and enjoy networking drinks and food after the one-to-one meetings have taken place.

The VM & Display Show is the place for all your visual merchandising and display needs. Visitors can meet with an array of industry experts who can help make displays a reality, from concept to installation. Discuss your visual merchandising and display requirements with experts in your field.

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CREATIVE RETAIL AWARDS - TICKETS NOW ON SALE 14 OCTOBER 2021 - PROUD EMBANKMENT WWW.creativeretailawards.com 08

a night like no other

CELEBRATING - NETWORKING - WINNING

The Creative Retail Awards recognise and reward excellence in retail. Moving away from the traditional awards ceremony the Creative Retail Awards oﬀer a night full of exuberance. The Awards span a number of disciplines, including store design, Visual Merchandising, inspired technology, Omni-channel innovations, bar and restaurant design, shopﬁtting and much more.

VIEW THE CATEGORIES AND SUBMIT your entries at

www.creativeretailawards.com 14 OCTOBER 2021 - proud embankment - london

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news

NEWS

Covent Garden’s historic market building has turned into a neon wonderland Chila Burman’s latest large scale neon art installation themed around love and identity and inspired by Chila’s Hindu Punjabi heritage, will feature vast light sculptures and uplifting messages, and take over Covent Garden’s Market Building from August until October Designed to bring joy, positivity and a sense of magic to the public, visitors are welcomed with the message “do you see words in rainbows” emblazoned in neon purple across the iconic entrance of the Market Building, and Burman’s signature exuberant colours have transformed the inside of the Market Building into a bright spectacle. Symbolic neon sculptures of peacocks, tigers, flowers, snakes and bulls, plus positive words and collages in incredible kaleidoscopic colours, inspired by Burman’s Hindu Punjabi heritage and her bold vision, illuminate the space, transforming it into London’s biggest immersive art installation. RF

John Lewis ‘anyday’ homeware concept lights up St Davids The St David’s Partnership, owners of St David’s in Cardiff, has announced the launch of John Lewis’ new pop-up showroom experience, ANYDAY. Only the second of its kind in the UK, the store showcases ANYDAY, the new own brand range from John Lewis, with an aspiration to remodel and transform consumer perceptions around the affordability of stylish homewares. The 4,277 sq ft unit, situated on the Lower Grand Arcade, adjacent to Disney, Sports Direct, and Lego, will be in place until midOctober. The move to create a temporary showroom comes after considerable success with the ‘Test & Learn’ exhibition spaces, launched by John Lewis Cardiff to feature their new ANYDAY own brand earlier this summer in the Lower Mall at St. David’s. John Lewis is looking to build the profile of its ‘home’ assortment range, with the increasing importance of creating liveable and workable spaces at home featuring stylish and affordable designs.

NEWS

Rituals Cosmetics to make regional debut in centre:mk Rituals Cosmetics is to open a new store at centre:mk Milton Keynes marking its debut in the region. Located on Silbury Arcade opposite the new H Beauty flagship, the 2,571 sq ft store will open later this year. Kevin Duffy, centre:mk’s Centre Director, said: “We work continuously to enhance our offer with best-in-class brands such as Rituals as we anticipate and satisfy the evolving needs of guests. Personal wellbeing and beauty are key areas, so Rituals is a great addition that, along with other recent openings at centre:mk, creates an offer unrivalled anywhere in the region.” Rituals was founded in 2000 by Raymond Cloosterman, a former Unilver employee with the aim of transform their customers’ every day experiences to create relaxing and meaningful moments. The first Rituals store opened in Amsterdam and has since expanded worldwide to 27 countries with approximately 800 stores. Having opened the first store in the UK in Covent Garden in 2016, Rituals now boasts 36 stores across the country. RF

Crep Collection Club & Vanilla make bricks and mortar debuts at Bluewater Landsec has announced the launch of two new retail concepts at Bluewater in Kent. Crep Collection Club, the trend-led sneaker specialists, have opened their first standalone store, whilst accessible fashion concept brand Vanilla has launched its debut space at the destination, following the success of its established online and concession presence. Rob Hardie, Portfolio Director for co-owner and asset manager of Bluewater, Landsec, commented: “The launches of bricks and mortar debuts for Crep Collection Club and Vanilla adds a point of difference for Bluewater’s retail offer. Bluewater continues to attract emerging and independent brands alongside well-established international names. These openings join a number of other brands who recently selected Bluewater and reinforces our position as one of Europe’s leading retail and leisure destinations.” RF

NEWS

Creative Design & Display Connections The organisers behind the Creative Retail Awards have launched the inaugural Creative Design & Display Connections (CDDC) meet the buyer event. To be held in February 2022 at Bounce Old Street in London, the event consists of 14 pre-matched one-to-one meetings between buyers and suppliers over the course of the day. With Supplier

entry from just £1,750 + VAT, the event could provide the highest ever ROI for companies at this difficult trading period. Approved delegates receive free entry plus two complimentary tickets to the world renowned Creative Retail Awards taking place in October. Visit www.cddconnections.com

Creative Retail Awards CONFIRMED FOR 14tH OCTOBER 2021 - ON SALE NOW The Creative Retail Awards are truly unique in their blend of celebration, networking and entertainment. After an exciting process of reviewing a record amount of entries, the shortlist for the third Creative Retail Awards has been revealed. The Awards recognise and reward innovation and excellence in retail design and experience from around the world. The winners and highly commended entries will be announced at a unique awards ceremony to be held at Proud

Embankment on 14th October 2021. Bringing together the whole industry, the Creative Retail Awards is a night that blends networking with an informal party atmosphere celebrating the diversity in our industry. The night will offer plenty of networking opportunities to meet with retailers, suppliers and designers. Enjoy a champagne reception, live music, entertainment, DJ and more, celebrating into the small hours. RF www.creativeretailawards.com

Burlington Arcade Launches Thomas Goode & Co Boutique Burlington Arcade, the historic retail destination in London’s Mayfair, has announced that luxury homeware house Thomas Goode & Co have relocated to the iconic London shopping destination. Johnny Sandelson, executive chairman of Thomas Goode & Co says, ‘Burlington Arcade provides us with the opportunity to display our luxury wares to an ever wider audience. The ethos and spirit of the Arcade very much mirrors our own history. We have also decided to house our priceless archive on the premises, and we welcome tourists and shoppers to see first hand our tableware which has served Royal and noble families from not only Britain, but also including Europe, India, the Middle East, and Russia. Among the plates on show include items manufactured for Queen Victoria, Catherine the Great, to more modern designs by Giovanni Versace.’

NEWS

Liverpool ONE unveils upsized Hamleys store and Lego activation

Grosvenor Britain & Ireland has announced the opening of a new upsized Hamleys store at Liverpool ONE, following a recent interactive LEGO ‘Pop & Play’ event. Both launches form part of the destination’s ongoing programme of unique, familyfriendly experiences. Following a successful year of trading, Hamleys has recommitted to Liverpool ONE with a more expansive store at 35 South John Street. The iconic British toy emporium is set to open an immersive 3,000 sq ft store which houses an array of games, puzzles, arts and crafts, as well as the retailer’s own exclusive collections. Liverpool ONE has recently hosted an activation from LEGO as part of the popular brand’s free ‘Pop & Play’ tour which is visiting five UK cities this summer. Complementing LEGO’s permanent store on South John Street, the ‘Pop & Play’ event comprised four interactive play areas offering creative activities for the whole family, including cupcake decorating and a scavenger hunt. RF

www.retail-focus.co.uk/news SHAFTESBURY ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF FIRST UK STORE FOR THIRD MAN RECORDS Shaftesbury and Jack White announce the opening of the first ever Third Man Records store outside the USA. The independent record label was founded by Jack White, lead singer and guitarist of the White Stripes, in Detroit, Michigan in 2001, and will open at 1 Marshall Street in the heart of London’s Carnaby. The 1,164 sq ft store will open on Saturday 25th September. The London store will be the third member of the Third Man physical retail spaces that include buildings in Nashville, Tennessee and Detroit, Michigan. The store will be a multi-functional space, consisting of a two-level retail space, an intimate live music venue named “The Blue Basement,” and be the European headquarters for Third Man Records. The store will feature the quirks, details and idiosyncrasies Third Man have become renowned around the world for. These include a Third Man Records token-operated lucky dip book machine designed by the Toronto-based artist Craig Small. Titled the “Literarium,” it is only the second of its kind in the world. The store will also feature a Third Man Records token-operated recording booth where artists and the public can record their own material straight to vinyl.

FlashNEWS to go here

GYM+COFFEE MOVES INto VICTORIA SQUARE Gym+Coffee has launched its Northern Ireland debut in Victoria Square Belfast, owned by German Commerz Real’s real estate fund Hausinvest. The new 2,300 sq ft Gym+Coffee clubhouse concept launch forms part of the brand’s continued expansion

and marks the 8th clubhouse store following the Manchester and London openings. The Belfast debut will create 15 jobs for the local community, and the brand continues to look to the future as it plans to double its staff across the company’s HQ and retail stores.

Astley Clarke selects Seven Dials for its UK flagship store Luxury British jewellery brand, Astley Clarke, has selected Seven Dials’ Monmouth Street for their debut UK flagship store, Shaftesbury has announced today. Set to retail their full collection of jewellery together with engraving and locket personalisation, Astley Clarke Seven Dials will open in Autumn 2021. Spanning just over 900 sq ft at 31 Monmouth Street, Astley Clarke’s first bricks and mortar home will stock the fine and demifine elevated jewellery that has become synonymous with the brand. Founded in 2006 by Bec Astley Clarke MBE and headquartered in London, the brand began its journey as an online-only retailer. RF

Tihara Smith brings a taste of the Caribbean to Seven Dials Shaftesbury has announced the opening of a debut pop-up store in Seven Dials for Tihara Smith, the lifestyle brand named winner of its retail incubator initiative Start Up with Seven Dials. The 579 sq ft Tihara Smith store at 37 Neal Street has been curated as a tropical oasis in the heart of the West End, stocking the brand’s range of vibrant stationery, accessories, handmade raffia designs, gifts and prints. All of the brand’s products are designed and crafted in London, inspired by the founder’s Caribbean roots. RF

what does the future hold?

Department Stores

FEATURE

By: Rob Fletcher Selfridges reacted to market demand by transforming the store exterior on Duke and Orchard Streets into a garden centre

One of the hardest hit areas of the retail sector over the past decade, Rob Fletcher looks at what the future might hold for department stores and how they are evolving to cope with the changing market The huge increase in online shopping over the past decade or so has had a major impact on department stores, with many consumers turning to Amazon, eBay and other online shops for shopping, rather than a more traditional trip out to a physical store. This has been exaggerated further over the past 18 months during the Covid-19 pandemic, with the closure of retail ultimately leading to the loss of Debenhams from a High Street that was still reeling from the departure of BHS. However, while we have heard plenty about the closure of stores across other department store brands, we are also starting to see signs of evolution in this area, with the remaining parties moving outside of their traditional remit and taking on new approaches in order to stay part of the retail landscape.

“The department store delivers a real-life experience that can’t be matched online, presenting products that you didn’t know you wanted in innovative and desirable settings”

FEATURE

David Collins Studio worked with Harrods to introduce an experiential restaurant counter experience in the Harrods Dining Hall

Here, we speak with some of the companies working in the department stores segment and find out more about how they are seeking to the buck the trend and ensure these stores remain a fixture on High Streets for many years to come.

Changing culture of shopping There is no doubt that department stores offer a completely unique shopping experience to the retailer, which, importantly, cannot be recreated when shopping online. Much of this comes down to the incredible décor and in-store experiences consumers enjoy when they are shopping. Luxury interior design architecture practice David Collins Studio has worked with many of the leading department stores in Great Britain, supporting them with ambitious projects aimed at increasing footfall and offering visitors an unforgettable shopping experience. Nicola Bianchi, senior designer at David Collins Studio, agrees that there are a number of key reasons why a physical store will always be required and, similarly, why there will always be a place for department stores. “Firstly, one thing that is not easily available from your sofa are curated displays,” Bianchi said. “Endless scrolling cannot provide an entire outfit or room set with ease. Department stores offer us that inspiration, along with the meaningful interactions of high-quality customer service. “Secondly, following lockdown with its lack of contact with the outside world, we need to see, touch and feel things more than ever. The department store delivers a real-life experience that can’t be matched online, presenting products that you didn’t know you wanted in innovative and desirable settings, that allow you to discover and explore.” For this reason, Bianchi said it is important for department stores to offer engaging brand experiences to “strike a balance of excitement and convenience”. She said that staggering quantities of stock can feel like hard work rather than an enjoyable, edited or curated shopping experience, whereas online sofa scrolling is the relaxed retail on the terms of the consumer. As such, she said it is critical for department stores to diversify and rise to the challenge in order to make a shopping trip feel

worthwhile, inspirational and a treat for the consumer. Offering up examples of how to appeal to the modern consumer that would otherwise be satisfied sat on their sofa in the comfort of their own home while scrolling on their phone, Bianchi spoke about David Collins Studio’s work with Harrods. “I have been fortunate enough to work on both the food and beverage side of Harrods, which incorporates a real sense of theatre throughout the space, culminating in the experiential restaurant counter experience in the Harrods Dining Hall, as well as the menswear departments for David Collins Studio,” Bianchi said. “What is amazing about the new menswear departments is that for the first time since Harrods opened in 1849, menswear is now all on one level. The culture of shopping by occasion or season has shifted; for example, tailoring is no longer on spread to ‘evening wear’ for a tuxedo on level four, and basement level one for your office attire. It is all together in one place and level, reflecting how we shop for our complete lifestyle. “Not only that, Harrods has curated brands together that work for types of shoppers, and put them into inspirational new departments. Deep understanding of not only the changes in fashion, but the change in customer profile has enabled David Collins Studio and Harrods to work together on this exciting new department.”

Reacting to an evolving market Despite having been hit by a number of store closures in 2021, John Lewis has been busy adapting its business model to ensure it continues to attract new and existing customers. The company has recently announced a number of new initiatives outside of its traditional remit, widening its appeal to consumers. One such development has been the introduction of a new furniture rental scheme, which comes after a successful trial last year. Though perhaps more well known for selling furniture, the new scheme will attract a wider range of customers and extend the appeal of John Lewis to customers who before may not have visited the store. Working in partnership with rental specialist Fat Llama, the scheme will allow customers to rent furniture from more than 200 lines, covering products such as beds, dining tables, desks and chairs. Previously only available in London, the rental service will

project

John Lewis is working towards generating 40% of profit from outside the retail sector by 2030

be expanded across the UK, with customers able to rent John Lewis furniture for 12 months at a time, followed by the option to purchase the product with payments already made deducted from the purchase price. “We’re seeing a real shift in consumer behaviour towards usership rather than ownership, the weak signals were already there pre-covid, with the emergence of car-sharing schemes, hotdesking and services like AirBnB, but the pandemic has turbocharged this with an almost back-to-the-future move towards sharing, reusing or trading within communities or groups,” John Lewis Partnership futurologist John Vary said. “Renting a dress or sofa is the modern-day equivalent of borrowing sugar from next door.” John Lewis also recently announced the launch of its investment products in partnership with digital wealth manager Nutmeg. Customers can now visit John Lewis to open a junior ISA, stocks and shares ISA or for general investment. This, John Lewis said, forms part of a wider plan to expand the focus of its business so that by the year 2030, 40% of its profits will come from outside retail. Other parts of this strategy include expansion into the property sector, with plans in place to build 10,000 rental homes in the next 10 years. “We have launched an easy-to-use service to help customers reach their financial targets, no matter how big or small - whether that’s saving to get on the property ladder, helping expectant parents prepare for a new arrival or helping to give someone a financial start in life,” John Lewis said in a statement. “We have committed £100m over the next five years to quadruple our financial services business.”

Temporary features for long-term impact Adapting for the modern market is clearly key for the future of department stores, but not all of these changes need to be permanent. Selfridges’ recent projects are proof of this, having introduced a number of modern-facing, temporary features inside its stores to respond to seasonal demand. This summer, the Selfridges London Accessories Hall and the store exterior on Duke and Orchard Streets were transformed into a garden centre, as what the retailer described as a “playful and sensory response” to a boom in outdoor appreciation. The garden centre has been selling gardening tools, seeds, indoor and outdoor plants and pots, alongside some of the more

Selfridges partnered New Zealand wine brand Cloudy Bay to create a special in-store experience

luxury products associated with Selfridges including a range of fashion, lifestyle and beauty products, as well as an exclusive collection from Prada. The garden centre has also served as a social space, featuring ‘The Potting Shed’ for events and advice, with a resident gardener, virtual “dial-a-gardener” service and a program of workshops and experiences dedicated to gardening. “A garden centre is evocative but familiar, and has provided rich inspiration for our teams, literally and creatively,” Selfridges;’ creative director Hannah Emslie said. “We know our customers are more interested in gardening and greening than they have ever been – and so we are playing with the idea by bringing the essentials of a typical garden centre to our stores. “We will be retailing plants, compost and garden gnomes alongside special and unexpected Selfridges products with a sense fun and imagination, as we continue to explore pleasure in nature this year.” Other summer-facing projects from Selfridges designed to capture both the attention and imagination of consumers included partnering with New Zealand wine brand Cloudy Bay to recreate its home nation inside Selfridges London. Cloudy Bay took over a bar on the ground floor and transformed its surroundings in order to transport visitors to Marlborough in New Zealand. Guests entered through an opening in the Cloudy Bay tent and when inside were able to visit a specially designed wooden bar and enjoy a glass of wine on seating in among lanterns and outdoor lights. “The Cloudy Bay haven at Selfridges is more than just a bar, it emulates the bay in New Zealand –showcasing its special, awe inspiring, untouched beauty and now Londoners will have the opportunity to experience this unique place without needing to cross the Pacific Ocean,” Selfridges said. While it is difficult to argue against the ease and convenience of shopping online, if there is one thing that the internet will never compete with, it is the experience of shopping inside a physical store. Creating a memorable environment for shoppers will significantly increase the chance of them returning over and over again, and with department stores in particular excelling at these special experiences, their value to the industry cannot be overstated.

insight

From Diversity to Fantasy HOL Group reimagine their collections for Autumn 21 After what felt like an eternity of lockdowns, restrictions and general gloom, our newly discovered freedoms make a welcome return as we aim to get back to some sort of normality. The need to hit the re fresh button within many areas of retail is tangible if businesses want to stay relevant, and so it’s no surprise many other areas within the industry feel the same. HOL Group are no exception. Taking the opportunity to re-engage with its customers once more, and hot on the heels of Farringdon Youth, launched back in the Spring, HOL have turned their attention to re-imagining two of its main mannequin ranges as part of its 25th year anniversary celebrations - and ready for the new season ahead. The Groups popular Farringdon mannequin collection were first to get an updated treatment. Entitled ‘Farringdon Realistic’ mannequins are presented in a variety of sizes and ethnicities. “We wanted to show just how versatile this collection can be,” said Anthony Rendall-Davis, Creative Director. “Representation and body positivity have always been important to me within our industry. You hear so often about representing plus size however, many times this actually falls short. Having the opportunity to develop this range from the usual size 8 to a size 20 was crucial for me” Perfectly positioned to reflect the trend for ‘realism’ within mannequin displays Farringdon Realistic demonstrates what can be achieved. Rendall goes on to say “We intentionally used the same female face for three of the poses as we wanted to demonstrate just how different these can look with different skin tones, wigs and make up” The move was a hit, with several major retailers taking inspiration from the shoot – expect to see elements of Farringdon Realistic in stores across the UK later this year.

insight

Next in line was Piccadilly – originally launched in late 2019, the dynamic collection of mannequins has drama at its core. “It felt like we only just presented Piccadilly to the world and then we all went into the pandemic” said Rendall Davis. “The opportunity to re-invent them in a highly stylised way was perfect for setting a new optimistic mood post lockdown” He goes on to say, “I didn’t want the mannequins to be too literal, the shoot needed to be more conceptual than that.” HOL worked closely with Peluca Studios for the wigs and make up in what has culminated as a perfect collaboration. The result - sees Piccadilly as a remarkable blend of coquettish kitsch with serious attitude - a fusion of Japan’s Kyoto Geisha and rebellious punk. Both mannequin ranges are available to view by appointment at HOL’s Kings Cross showroom, whilst new for autumn, a newly designated mannequin site is now live - showcasing the brands entire mannequin portfolio to include bespoke and sustainable options. View the collections at www.hol-mannequins.com It’s clear to see that as 2021 unfolds, HOL’s Silver anniversary year is shaping up to be golden one.

E x p l o r a

S P E C T R U M

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project

BALLY LONDON, UK

Bally celebrates 170-year heritage with new London flagship on Regent Street Bally’s new London flagship on Regent Street is located on the city famous thoroughfare and housed in a historic Regency building. Boasting a columned façade and windows framed by antique trim, the boutique sees the latest installation of the global Bally Haus concept, driving synergy among the company’s retail outposts. Celebrating Bally’s 170-year heritage, Bally Haus honours the brand’s Swiss pillars of art, architecture and craftsmanship through contemporary design and natural materials. First launched in September 2019 on Milan’s Montenapoleone, Bally Haus’ experiential environment offers new ways of shopping with a multi-functional format that lends itself to cultural programming, including film screenings, panel discussions and exhibitions. Conceived in collaboration with Seen Displays, a Londonbased creative design and production agency, Bally Haus London’s interior is inspired by the city’s geological and architectural history. A prevalent design theme centres around London clay, which forms the bedrock of the Thames underground to the building blocks of the city’s iconic landmarks above ground. A focus on materials creates an open, flexible space with visual contrasts – a central Bally Haus feature. Light and dark marble flooring meets earthy, red stones, terracotta shelving displays and natural millwork, while at the store’s entrance, an expansive LED screen introduces unique 360 content for digital campaigns and collections.

Embracing excitement Reflecting London’s progressive work in material innovation and circular design, Bally further commissioned local materialist and maker James Shaw. The resulting pieces, such as bespoke footwear risers, bookends and midfloor fixtures, were made from repurposed local waste plastic that Shaw hand-extruded into high-density polyethylene and polypropylene sculptures.

PROJECT

A series of limited-edition products will also feature throughout the store, including the Crystalia tote bag with an exclusive leather-embossed patch displaying Bally Haus London’s street and city name. In addition to London, new store openings in 2021 include New York’s Meatpacking District and Sydney’s George Street, immersed in vibrant neighbourhoods with culture, entertainment, retail and dining offerings that capture diverse foot traffic and a next generation audience. Steps from the Royal Academy of Arts, Liberty London, Apple and Soho’s offices, Bally’s Regent Street store sits at the corner of Glasshouse Street in London’s West End. Later this year, the store will exhibit sculptural pieces by London-based artist Zuza Mengham. Rooted in a preoccupation with abstracted form, materials and their stories, her work explores the connection between traditional crafts and new methods of making, reflecting a symbiosis to Bally’s longstanding commitment to craftsmanship and design innovation. The exhibit is the first in a Bally Haus series, providing a cultural hub to explore local talent. “London has always been such an important fashion capital for creativity and culture. Bally Haus London hopes to fulfil new post-pandemic needs with a multi-functional space that engages local artists to give second life to repurposed materials - offering new ways of seeing old things - while providing an experiential environment that embraces the excitement of discovery,” Bally’s chief executive Nicolas Girotto said.

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project

CHAUMET LONDON, UK

Chaumet new bond street is much more than a boutique Situated in the heart of London’s luxury shopping district, the Chaumet boutique on New Bond Street reopened its doors in spring. Dedicated to a selection of exceptional High Jewellery and the Maison’s iconic collections, this unique location is imbued with an intimate identity, bridging British elegance and Parisian distinction. The prestigious address highlights the enlarged presence of Chaumet in both the UK and Europe, following the reopening of its space in Harrods, and the renovation of the hôtel particulier at 12 Vendôme in Paris last year. Much more than a boutique, this exceptional setting is a destination for lovers of jewellery and refinement. Behind its typical London facade, the atmosphere evokes Parisian elegance with all the charm of a grand Victorian mansion, unfolding in a unique layout. The beige and grey colour scheme is punctuated with touches of gold and Chaumet blue. Custom-made creations by craftsmen reference the Maison’s symbolic universe. Decorative elements include embroidered ears of wheat, naturalistic frescoes and bas-reliefs with imprints of grasses and plants, straw marquetry evoking the radiance of a jewel, and artistic lacquering. On the ground floor, the noble materials contrast with digital screens that replace the traditional cases to show off the Maison’s

PROJECT

creations in a modern manner. The Joséphine, Liens and Jardins collections are presented here, along with Perspectives de Chaumet, the Maison’s latest High Jewellery collection. Emblematic of elegant Victorian houses, the staircase has been specially and identically recreated for this prestigious address, while respecting the city’s heritage. Decorated with a unique contemporary fresco, it illustrates the Chaumet combination of tradition and modernity. Ribbon link and laurel leaf motifs, shaded from beige to dark blue, provide a visual sense of elevation that invites visitors to explore the first floor. Overlooking New Bond Street, the upstairs private salon features a sky theme. A gold leaf and white plaster fresco evoked clouds bathed by the rays of the sun, with this intimate setting allowing time to stand still, resulting in the ideal place for trying on High Jewellery pieces and perhaps even conceiving a special order.

Celebrating history With the reopening of this prestigious address, Chaumet writes a new page in the story that has connected it to the UK for over 150 years. In 1848, the Maison moved to London’s New Burlington Street, a short walk from the current New Bond Street store. Jeweller to sovereigns, it attracted the attentions of Queen Victoria, who on the occasion of the Great Exhibition held in London in 1851, even sent her own hand-drawn design for a piece of jewellery to the head of the workshop, before granting him a Royal Warrant of Appointment the following year. Chaumet also attracted members of the aristocracy, including the Duke of Westminster who acquired several tiaras and a shell pendant set with a remarkable aquamarine, while the Duke of Marlborough ordered a diamond rivière made using the Maison’s emblematic fil couteau technique. Lady Mountbatten, last Vicereine of India, wore her Chaumet tiara at the coronation of George VI. Wallis, Duchess of Windsor chose an amazing combination lipstick holder-watch. Not to mention Winston Churchill, the Maharaja of Baroda, big names in industry such as Lord and Lady Tata, and personalities from the world of the arts like patron Lady Abdy and her spectacular pearshaped diamond pendant. In 2018, the Maison paid tribute to the UK with the Pastorale Anglaise High Jewellery parure. A precious interpretation of the tartan motif, it features exceptional emeralds that evoke the intense green of the landscape. Chaumet perpetuates these links with the renovation of its New Bond Street location, inspired by the elegance of British architecture.

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Sustainability in action with the Hexcite Group Over the last 12 months, we’ve seen consumers demand more sustainable solutions from the brands that they love, investing more time and money in those that prioritise a ‘green’ approach. Consumers are already choosing brands based on their environmental values and 64% (according to Deloitte) are asking businesses for better schemes to remove plastics and packaging. It has become one of many areas that brands, and retailers in particular, simply can no longer afford to ignore. However, embedding sustainable practices into the design and delivery of largescale, multi-store, multi-country rollouts isn’t that simple. Many sustainable solutions aren’t yet fiscally affordable at scale and many have been tried over a prolonged period. To adapt to continuously shifting consumer attitudes, businesses that want to thrive will need to rethink their approach. So, what comes next? The retail design, production and installation specialists that make up the Hexcite Group have been delivering sustainable solutions long before it became fashionable and a necessity. Their long-held belief is that the only way to drive change is to encourage more organisations to incrementally increase their usage of sustainable materials which will drive down the cost in the future, removing one of the key barriers to sustainability in the sector. Here’s how they’ve been doing it…

Introducing the Hexcite Group The Hexcite Group consists of six market-leading businesses in the retail, hospitality and property industry. As standalone powerhouses, each business demonstrates significant experience in its field. Together, they offer a wide range of environmentally friendly solutions and products that exceed expectations.

The six businesses within the group are: Hexcite Studio - Our young and fresh design agency based in East London. They are the creative hub of the Hexcite Group and operate as an independent studio. They are a team of creatives, designers and strategists for retail - in short, ‘retail problem solvers’. They leverage insight and trends to develop engaging, exciting and influential retail spaces for global brands. Known for pushing the boundaries of modern and future retail. Hexcite Studio are at the forefront of sustainably and environmental initiatives driving a change in retail activations around the world.

Blaze – Look down any UK high street, in any town, and you’ll see retail signage designed and installed by Blaze Signs. From its factory in Broadstairs, Kent, it delivers impactful signage using sustainable, hard-wearing materials including wood, metal and recycled plastics. Cygnia Maintenance – Renowned for its unrivalled signage services, maintenance and repair for retailers and property owners across the UK, Cygnia is a customer-focused operation with impressive levels of coverage. It also provides a consultancy service to help clients make their powered signage as energy efficient as possible.

Gardners – A specialist digital printers based in Cardiff, Wales, Gardners delights its customers with exceptional print experiences that inspire interaction and influence decisions. As one of Europe’s largest wide format print manufacturers, it delivers outdoor, in-store, fleet, small format print campaigns and more for retailers and brands. Gardners is constantly innovating and bolstering its sustainable solutions for clients. As such, it is the sole UK supplier of ReActivair, a substrate that absorbs and cleans harmful nitrous dioxide from the air. Kesslers – Based in Stratford, London, it is well known for designing, manufacturing and delivering semi-permanent and permanent fixtures, displays and retail interiors. Kesslers has access to a cutting-edge range of environmentally friendly materials and substrates and has innovated with the development of sustainable solutions. Proportion London - Is a global visual merchandising services company with highly skilled sculptors model makers and artists producing high quality and innovative displays. Going beyond typical retail solutions, the team combined the latest technology with traditional techniques. With over 150 years in the industry, it has recently developed a fully sustainable mannequin produced entirely from recycled shopping bags.

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Target : 2025 To take retail sustainability one step further, the Hexcite Group is launching its Target : 2025 mission which will see the group proactively working to achieve four highly ambitious sustainability goals by 2025. These include achieving:

• • • •

Zero to Landfill by the end of 2021 Global Sustainable Materials procurement processes by the end of 2022 A Circular Economy Business Model by 2023 A Carbon Neutral business by 2025

The Sustainability Showcase With the topic of sustainability high on everyone’s agenda and its ambitious Target : 2025 announcement, the Hexcite Group is hosting a Sustainability Showcase at its offices in Stratford, London from 2pm - 5pm on 15th September 2021. With a selected panel of expert industry speakers including retail sustainability expert Steve Lister, the event will delve into the latest developments in sustainable retail practices, share knowledge of sustainable materials and working processes that can, and have been, delivered across a broad range of projects, schemes and campaigns. Speakers will also share their insights about what sustainability means within their sectors as well as ways to deliver them. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in the world of sustainable materials, ideas and solutions and join the conversation. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, tickets to the Hexcite Group Sustainability Showcase are available by invite only. If you would like to apply for a place at the event, please email sustainabilityshowcase@hexcite-group.com

The Sustainability Showcase 2pm - 5pm 15th September Stratford, London

PROJECT

MANGO LONDON, UK

Mango flies the flag on Oxford Street Mango is opening a new flagship store on London’s Oxford Street, one of busiest shopping streets in the world. The store will transfer the previous flagship shop – located in premises adjoining the new store – to a location with a layout much better suited to the new Mediterranean-inspired store concept the firm has begun to implant in its stores. The aim is to create a functional, relaxed and welcoming space that promotes and simplifies the interaction between the customer and store staff, as well as improving the distribution of collections and the store layout. Incidentally, this will be the first store in the UK to feature the new Mango store concept, which incorporates various elements reminiscent of Mediterranean style and culture, in order to reflect the essence of the brand. Warm tones and neutral colour tones feature throughout, and are combined with traditional, artisanal, sustainable and natural materials. The new store has a surface area of 1,400sq m and is set across a total of three floors, on which the woman’s, men’s and kid’s lines will be sold. Sustainability, energy efficiency and architectural integration within the setting are key elements in the design and construction of the new store concept Mango has developed. Consequently, these new stores feature energy-efficient lighting and temperature control systems as well as sustainable materials, such as natural paints. The store will also have an area for attending to and offering advice to Mango customers. In this area, they will be able to discuss with staff their preferences, opinions and expectations of the brand, and also resolve any queries that arise during their shopping experience. Furthermore, as part of its commitment to omni-channel retailing, the new London store will also feature an area for its click and collect service. This store opening will take the total number of Mango stores in the UK to 43.

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moncler Derby Street, UK

Moncler relocates Los Angeles boutique

Moncler recently announced the relocation of its Los Angeles boutique to a new design space. The flagship store is located at 340 North Rodeo Drive in the prestigious shopping neighbourhood of Beverly Hills. Spanning two levels with a total selling area of 375sq m, the boutique’s exteriors and interiors blend Moncler's distinctive mountain-inspired heritage with LA’s bright aesthetics to create a warmer atmosphere. Pinewood, ivory Italian Travertine stone and grey Ceppo di Gré stone are teamed with mirrored surfaces and black metal to give the boutique a fresh and contemporary finish. The focus of the new space is a striking central staircase, connecting the two floors almost like a ribbon, with a sinuous helical shape in concrete and Travertine stone. While the ground floor features a vast selection of Moncler's collections, the second level is dedicated to a more personal shopping experience, with areas thoughtfully designed for private appointments, with an outdoor rooftop space that welcomes guests for special in-store events. The boutique’s majestic façade with its impressive pillars and expansive windows also offers prime vistas over Rodeo Drive. To celebrate the launch of the new flagship boutique, Moncler has collaborated with LA-based artist Steven Harrington to create limited-edition art toy ‘Pupazzo’ in three distinctive designs. Known for his psychedelic- pop aesthetic, Harrington has infused

PROJECT

his creative vision for the opening with the Pupazzo, bringing a laid-back LA vibe to Moncler’s mountain spirit character. Two of Harrington’s iconic Palm Tree characters will be featured within the store’s windows, while an oversized Pupazzo will live within the new boutique’s first floor. A short film to mark the opening of the new boutique explores Harrington’s design approach and connection to the city. The physical and digital worlds merge with the arrival of the Moncler Pupazzo by Steven Harrington on Moncler.com, where new content will be unveiled and guests will have the opportunity to enter to win the limited-edition art toy. The new boutique will carry the latest from Moncler Collection, Moncler Grenoble, and Moncler Genius.

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PROJECT

LOOKNOW XINTIANDI The LOOKNOW Xintiandi Flagship combines artistic studio with home comforts Inspired by the original status of space, Sò Studio recently launched the LOOKNOW Xintiandi flagship store. Through the storyline of ‘House Now’, Sò Studio conveys the narrative of the space and the immersive experience to create a strong identity of the contemporary design style. The key design components ‘Live Artwork’ and ‘Resident In’ combine with the unique cultural quality of Xintiandi to provide a special shopping experience for the customers. By holistically planning the space, Sò Studio re-organised the store into three parts, the window exhibition area, major display area, and accessories area. LOOKNOW, as a global designer assemble store, requires flexibility to be able to display different brands and products, as well as holds different events and changes the scene accordingly at any time. The yellow frame installed in the window exhibition area is the ‘Space Object’. The frame looks like a box transported from elsewhere is an important aspect of Live Artwork that Sò Studio emphasised. The yellow frame, which matches the facade, is not only a visual connection but also separates the different zones, acting as a visual focal point and a connector of the whole space to create a smooth and seamless transition going from one zone or style to the next. The Space Object installed in the window exhibition area transforms the front area of the store into a flexible space, providing the possibility of future collaboration with other brands and artists for pop-ups, installation displays, and media shows. While keeping the original function of the store, it helps to attract more attention and keep the freshness of the store and brand.

Blurring the boundaries The major display area includes two parts: Live Artwork and Resident In. Live Artwork is a concept of open space to mimic the status of an artist’s studio. From the start point of the reception, space is transforming from a sense of modern and artificial into the original and rough space texture. For example, the fabric artwork on the wall created by the designer on site has added an aesthetics sense to the store, at the same time, it is also a representative of an ‘Aesthetics Object’ As the biggest structure in the store, the fitting room is located in the centre of the display area. The fabric hanging upon the fitting room helps to visually separate the space and soften the light. Resident In is a privative concept to recreate the conditions of where the artist lives, like a living room. Wood texture, warm yellow colour and low colour temperature >>>lighting are used at the store to generate a relatively private and deluxe atmosphere. The setting of sofa, carpet and clothes-like racks expresses the story and immersion emphasized by Sò Studio. The designers intentionally painted the walls in blue unevenly to create a peeling or crackling appearance. The restrained and tuned-down choices of colour give a sense of comfort and privacy to the space. The accessories area uses the same colour as the store façade, while abnormal and exaggerated display cabinets are also placed here. A standing lamp that looks like a launchpad, customer carpet and the mottled treatment on the cabinet tells the story of ‘on purpose’ creation.

PROJECT

Exposed brick walls, structural steel and traces of the decorations that were put in place by previous owners are kept in place, while abandoned pipes were rearranged and turned into racks for handbags. Retaining and repurposing the existing conditions and introducing new elements form the ‘ongoing’ design concept of the store. Sò Studio intentionally blurs the boundary between used and new by re-purposing used materials in new designs to create a style that is unique to LOOKNOW. The space, then, becomes a vessel for stories that the used materials carried with them. But the old stories are told in creative ways that incidentally match the overall cultural quality of Xintiandi.

PROJECT

The Online Retail Sourcing Show

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products IDS The LiViT LVT flooring range from IDS combines a high performance specification, design and competitive price point. The range offers seven oak plank designs of 178mm x 1244mm and three rigid tile designs of 303mm x 607mm. Both are easy to install thanks to patented I4F click technology, are slip resistant, easy to clean and are compatible with water piped underfloor heating. LiViT offers a 5-year warranty for light commercial use and is available for 24-48 hour delivery from all IDS branches nationwide. T. +44 (0)8457 298 298 E: info@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk

BOLON With our new and improved sound insulation layer, our design flooring is becoming an even better acoustic choice for premises such as retail, hotels, offices and public spaces. The innovative improvement of the flooring’s sound insulating performance can be found in the design. An insulation felt layer has been added to reduce noise and sound impact up to 21-22 dB, making Bolon market leading in woven design flooring with this feature.

T. +44 844 561 0918 E:sales@flooring-concepts.co.uk www.bolon.com

IDS The characterful look of reclaimed flooring can be easily created with the popular Brada designs, part of the Malmo™ Senses Multi-Width luxury vinyl tile collection. Malmo™ Senses features the latest registered and embossed technology where the printed design is in line with the surface texture, enabling the material to perfectly mirror the look and feel of real wood. The Brada multi-width designs are part of the 12-strong Malmo™ Senses LVT range available for 24-48 hour delivery from all IDS branches nationwide. T. +44 (0)8457 298 298 E: info@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk

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PRODUCTS TORMAX Hygienic Pedestrian Traffic Control from TORMAX Offering a modular solution to the pressing need for retail outlets to more closely regulate the number of people entering their shop, TORMAX has launched a new add-on module, TORMAX count+go. Working in tandem with any TORMAX sliding or folding automatic entrance, this module effectively controls the number of people entering an area, setting the door to close when a pre-set limit is reached. Operated via smartphone, tablet or laptop, TORMAX count+go synchronises the timing of entry to ensure a hygienic physical distance is maintained between individuals, issuing a clear acoustic signal to alert pedestrians to wait. W: www.tormax.co.uk E:sales@tormax.co.uk

STYLE Style Secures HSW The UK’s leading moveable and partitioning wall specialist, Style, has further strengthened its partnership with the dormakaba Group by securing the exclusive UK distribution of its interior glass Horizontal Sliding Walls (HSW) range. The partnership means that Style will now offer a complete end-to-end process for architects, contractors and end user clients for the specification, provision and installation of dormakaba’s HSW partitioning systems. “dormakaba’s HSW range is a world leading portfolio of single glazed moveable partitioning wall systems, popular in high street shops, retail outlets in airports and shopping centres, restaurants and banks,” said Julian Sargent, Style’s group managing director. W: www.style-partitions.co.uk E: sales@style-partitions.co.uk S @StylePartitions

Products PRODUCTS

Excellent zephyr eCommerce agency Excellent Zephyr Launches their brand-new services to digitally transform independent retailers around the UK Excellent Zephyr launches their new eCommerce services to digitally transform independent retailers around the UK. Excellent Zephyr had previously worked with various household retail names such as Deliveroo, Monsoon and De Beers to deliver top-quality project management services. However, looking forward to the future of retail, they have spotted a unique gap in the market to deliver various professional eCommerce services to independent retailers. Their eCommerce services focus on three key areas; Digital Strategy, eCommerce Integration and Support. T: +44 020 4566 7337 W: www.excellentzephyr.com E: hello@excellentzephyr.com S @excellentzephyr

PowrPOD PowrPods are unique charging stations, delivering increased footfall for businesses such as salons, restaurants, or retail outlets. Not only do they solve a perennial problem for consumers, low battery anxiety, but the PowrApp app also directs consumers to their nearest local charging station, and can promote vendor special offers. This is a key way to drive more consumers into businesses. Sponsored pods are currently in place at various locations in the UK, including universities, where the pods have proved a huge success with sponsored brands and students. Lauren Jade Adams, Founder of PowrPod, said that: “Everyone is suffering now due to the dire economic consequences of the pandemic. Our charging solutions provide an essential service for people on the go and helps increase footfall into businesses in a safe and controlled manner and generating a much-needed new revenue stream for the vendor.” Each PowrPod is a custom-made, high-tech table that is supplied with a range of comfortable seating, super-fast

Qi wireless charging pads and charging cables, a touchfree hand sanitiser dispenser and an 18.5” LED digital advertising screen. The Bar Call app is a digital ordering system that is based on consumer input and feedback. E: info@powrpod.co.uk www.powrpod.co.uk Twitter: PowrUpClub

PRODUCTS

PRODUCTS Troldtekt Danish manufactured Troldtekt panels are commonly specified throughout the UK and Europe to improve the interior acoustic environment. Troldtekt® line forms nine acoustic solutions that make up the “design solutions” range which combines the best ideals of form and function. Founded on the Cradle to Cradle design concept, 100% Troldtekt’s natural wood wool panels are manufactured in a new state-of-the-art production facility. With a variety of different surfaces and colours, they can be supplied in the FSC® 100% category (FSC®C115450) contributing to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED rating. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, the panels offer high durability and low cost life cycle performance, as well as inherent sustainability. They are also a natural, breathable material which can absorb and release moisture, which is why they have been awarded an Allergy Friendly Product Award by Allergy UK. T. +44 (0)1978 664255 W. www.troldtekt.co.uk

FAAC Entrance Solutions Following the completion of the EUR 100 million acquisition by the Italian multinational FAAC Group earlier this year, 7 European divisions of Assa Abloy Entrance Systems and Agta Record (also part of the ASSA ABLOY Group) are now being rebranded as FAAC Entrance Solutions. As part of the EU Commission approved purchase, FAAC Entrance Solutions UK Limited will be the sole supplier of all ASSA ABLOY branded automatic pedestrian door products in the United Kingdom, including swing, slide and revolving door systems and operators. The UK division (Auto Pedestrian Doors Limited Registration No. 1256207), based in Sunbury-On-Thames – has now been rebranded as FAAC Entrance Solutions UK Limited. The transaction doesn’t represent any operational changes to management, staffing, services, or product offering. The legal entities registration number remains unchanged. The new identity roll out will start on 30th of November and will be completed in 2021. www.assaabloyentrance.co.uk/en/products/automaticdoors/

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Armourcoat Decorative specialists Armourcoat have provided the finishing touches to The Soak, a new bar and restaurant next to London’s Victoria Station with an all-day menu that is built around signature soaked flavours through fermenting, pickling, brining and steeping techniques. Armourcoat’s Koncrete polished plaster finish is used to great effect on the bar front with recessed logo. Koncrete is an urban range of polished plaster colours and finishes designed for contemporary projects. The range offers a wealth of design options to achieve a distinctive modern look including distressed effects or recessed ‘shutter’ markings. Outside the building, Armourcoat PPX has been used to repeat the restaurant logo design. PPX is a low maintenance, durable external limestone render system that can create stunning honed and textured stone like finishes for both new build and renovation projects. T. +44 (0) 1732 460668 E. sales@armourcoat.co.uk. www.armourcoat.com Twitter: @armourcoat

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INSIGHT

Experiential retail:

how brands can deliver a shopping experience to remember Thomas Fletcher, Projects Director, Sigma

The high street has been experimenting with the concept of experiential retail for decades, but the onset of technological advancements and digital transformation has accelerated its adoption in the bricks and mortar retail landscape. Thomas Fletcher, Projects Director at Sigma, explores its potential for driving footfall back to stores. A recent How We Shop report from Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield which predicted that more than half of retail stores will be dedicated to providing ‘retailtainment’ experiences by 2025, perhaps no surprise given that 81 per cent of consumers would be willing to pay more for a better in-store experience. While it is becoming increasingly clear that experiential retail is primed as the future of shopping, reinventing how their stores operate and securing the future success of the business remains a hurdle for many retailers. So just how can brands enhance their retailtainment offering?

A reimagined space If consumers are to be tempted back through their doors, brands must look beyond a pure retail concept to focus on

making the shopping experience a fun and enjoyable one. This is particularly pertinent when you consider that when customers have a great experience, they’re willing to pay up to a 16% price premium. No wonder then, that we are seeing a seismic shift towards high-concept ‘retailtainment’ stores on the UK high street. Whether that takes the shape of the four-storey Adidas mega-store in London, which allows customers to request alternative sizes and colours from an interface inside the changing room, Dr. Martens’ use of a VR station, GIF booth for social sharing and a customisation zone for shoes in their Camden outlet, or the flagship House of Vans store in London. Fully encapsulating the brand’s “Off the Wall” strapline, the Vans store allows customers to catch a film, listen to live music, eat, shop and, of course, skate on a free-to-use ramp and street course under the 30,000 square foot building.

Technology as an enabler While optimising commercial spaces for the prevailing environment, and converting traditional stores to multi-purpose and even multi-occupancy facilities is imperative, organisations must not lose sight of the value of technology. The UK has already seen its fair share of disruptors using cutting-edge tech to reimagine bricks-and-mortar shops. Be that advanced Electronic Point of Sale

(EPOS) systems and displays, futuristic cashier-less stores, where shoppers are greeted by 3D holograms, or even appfirst outlets that enable visitors to scan products with their smartphones to reveal more information.

A trusted partner Undoubtedly there is an opportunity for brands to evolve their offering to not only attract customers, but keep them coming back for more. Achieving company-wide transformation programmes that keep pace with longer-term transitions in consumer behaviour and capitalise on opportunities, nonetheless, will require not only major infrastructure changes, but also the adoption of the latest technology. Having the support of a trusted and experienced partner, such as Sigma, can be fundamental to success. With over 20 years’ experience of transforming commercial spaces, Sigma can bring together all parties, from landlords to retailers, main contractors, shopfitters, and everything in between, ensuring complex innovation-driven transformational programs can be deployed seamlessly, unceasingly, and perhaps most importantly, cost-effectively across entire estates.

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Retail Focus Magazine #120

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