LOJEL, the globally-renowned brand for carry essentials, has made its highly anticipated North American debut with the opening of its flagship store in Vancouver’s vibrant Kitsilano neighborhood.
In a news release, the retailer said the milestone marks the brand’s entry into North America, as it furthers its mission to deliver innovative, sustainable products that simplify everyday movement and inspire travel connections worldwide.
“Vancouver was a natural choice for LOJEL as we embark on this exciting new chapter,” said Rachel Draper, General Manager, North America. “The city’s diversity, environmental commitment, and dynamic community align perfectly with our values, and we’re excited to establish LOJEL as a central hub for travelers and locals alike who value sustainability and thoughtful design.”
The retailer said the new 1,800-square-foot flagship features the brand’s full range of products, including its signature luggage collections, versatile bags, and accessories, all crafted with durability, simplicity, and the environment top of mind. Developed as a community retail space for everyday inspiration, the store also embraces its local surroundings, with immersive design and experiential elements that celebrate local culture and bring real value to the community, it said.
“Shoppers are treated to a striking exterior mural by local artist Amy Flak. Inside, a community cork board serves as a visual way to inspire and educate, and custom display plinths have been fashioned by Barter Design out of locally-sourced, second growth Western Hemlock from the nearby Sunshine Coast. These thoughtful touches, among many more, are emblematic of the brand’s commitment to connecting with vibrant communities across the North American market,” said the brand in the news release.
LOJEL was founded in Japan in 1989 by young entrepreneur Chih Chang Chiang as a user-centric alternative to traditional luggage.
“Over three decades later, the brand has honed its expertise in creating high-quality, durable essentials that are designed to last. This focus on longevity not only contributes to reducing waste but also ensures that LOJEL products are reliable and resilient, perfect for those who value sustainability without compromising on style or functionality. LOJEL’s unwavering commitment to producing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern movement has allowed the brand to transcend its roots in travel and seamlessly integrate into the fabric of daily routines worldwide,” it said.
“The Vancouver store opening represents the brand’s commitment to becoming increasingly global by continuing to establish a deeper presence in the North American market, while maintaining an ethical approach to design, technology, and business. With plans to open more flagship stores in different cities, LOJEL’s dedicated team wants to connect with different communities and inspire meaningful journeys, whatever they may look like.”
“The LOJEL store is a place to get inspiration for how to simplify movement in your life,” said Chief Product Officer, Kenzo Yoneno. “Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store, a weekend away in Tofino, or a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list trip, our ultimate goal is to inspire movement within communities and across the globe. As we open our doors in Vancouver and look to the future, we are excited to continue inspiring thoughtful movement through products that are built to last, designed for ease, and rooted in a deep respect for the world we move through.”
The store was built by The Design Collective/Elevation Vancouver in collaboration with LOJEL’s internal design team.
LOJEL, which stands for Let Our Journeys Enrich Life, is a global carry essentials brand that “aims to empower life’s journeys with innovative, sustainable products that offer transformative experiences, inspiring mindful travel and connections worldwide.”
The company said its durable and user-centric products are designed to simplify movement—because simplifying how we move frees us up to focus on what matters. All products are designed to empower life’s journeys, encourage mindful movement, and promote sustainable lifestyles. The brand is now headquartered in Hong Kong, and is currently sold in 15 countries through LOJEL’s physical stores and ecommerce platform.
