Value-priced Aussie eyewear retailer Bailey Nelson has big plans for Canada. The company has revealed that it will open a fifth Canadian location next month, and it sees the potential to open substantially more. We spoke with a company representative to gain insight into Bailey Nelson’s long-term plans for the Canadian market.
Founded in Bondi Beach (Sydney) Australia in 2012, Bailey Nelson retails high-quality, on-trend glasses and sunglasses in the $145 to $345 price range. It designs and manufactures its high-quality frames and uses top-quality lenses. Prices are a fraction of the cost of some competitors, and customer reviews reflect satisfaction with the company’s customer service and product selection. Bailey Nelson operates boutiques in Australia, New Zealand and the U.K., as well as four Canadian stores.
Bailey Nelson’s first Canadian location opened in Vancouver’s Gastown area in the summer of 2014. It has since opened three more locations — at Vancouver’s Bentall Centre, on Queen Street West in Toronto, and at Square One in Mississauga. Next month, the eyewear brand will open its fifth Canadian location at Metropolis at Metrotown in suburban Vancouver, and more are on the way as the company looks to grow its Canadian operations.
Manager of East Coast Operations, David Oliver, provided us with insight into Bailey Nelson Canadian expansion plans, as well as why the company has seen immediate success. Mr. Oliver explained how non-commissioned sales staff leads to a no-pressure, ‘fun’ sales environment, and how customers are encouraged to try on glasses and even take ‘selfies’ to forward to friends for opinion. Sales staff are there to assist and educate as well as to assist in picking out what looks best, and customers are free to browse on their own if they so choose. Store interiors are clean, minimalist, and inviting, reflecting a somewhat ‘industrial’ aesthetic. Reclaimed wood flooring characterizes some locations, and the company uses local millwork companies and suppliers wherever possible.
Mr. Oliver explained that the brand is already doing exceptionally well in Canada, prompting plans to open more Canadian stores. Its Canadian store count is expected to double by the end of next year as the company is considering retail space in malls and on busy high streets. For locations with in-house optometrists, Bailey Nelson ideally seeks space in the 700 square foot to 1,200 square foot range and for locations without optometrists, it can operate smaller locations, measuring in the 400 square foot to 600 square foot range. Mr. Oliver revealed that although the company hasn’t settled on an ideal number of Canadian store locations, it could possibly see as many as 50 Canadian locations open over the next several years, coast-to-coast.
London-based multi-brand retailer Jermyn Street 1664 opened its first North American location late August in Calgary, and it plans to open several Canadian locations over the next several years. The unique retail concept will address the designer ‘middle market’ according to its head of marketing, Jamila Saidi.
The retailer “aims to capture the essence of the internationally renowned street, known for its high quality British artistry and craftsmanship”, carrying a variety of sophisticated ‘accessible luxury’ brands which address the ‘mid-market’, according to Ms. Saidi. Jermyn Street 1664 carries shirts, suits, footwear and accessories for men and women, from brands such as Hawes & Curtis, Grosvenor London, and Barker. Customer service will exceptional, according to Ms. Saidi, fostering customer loyalty and repeat business.
Jermyn Street 1664’s first Canadian location, measuring about 1,650 square feet, opened at the end of August on the third level of downtown Calgary’s The CORE shopping centre. Ms. Saidi revealed that the retailer will look to eventually open locations in Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal, as well as possibly in other Canadian cities. Locations where professionals ‘dress up’ are key, and the retailer will evaluate the Canadian market as it expands.
Ms. Saidi explained how the store concept will reflect London’s iconic Jermyn Street, featuring eye-catching displays and carrying a variety of brands, including some heritage brands with royal warrants. She explained royal warrants specifically and how in order for a brand to obtain one, it must have been a supplier to a member of the British Royal Family (The Queen, Prince Phillip or Prince Charles) for at least five years.
NORDSTROM PACIFIC CENTRE (RENDERING: CADILLAC FAIRVIEW)
Nordstrom has provided us with the following list of amenities and services in its new Vancouver flagship. The 230,000 square foot Pacific Centre store opens to the general public at 9:30am on Friday, September 18. Below, we have copied and pasted what was provided by Nordstrom, hence its language is somewhat different from what is typically on Retail Insider. As well, we have posted a full-list of in-store brands in a separate article.
24-HOUR EXPRESS SERVICES—Forgot to pack an important item? Lost luggage left you with a late-night fashion emergency? We’re here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (and we’ll make it quick!), just call (604) 699-2100.
ALTERATIONS AND TAILORING—Get professional alterations and tailoring right in our store during all store hours (basic alterations are free for many full-price items purchased at Nordstrom). Your item will be ready when you want it—and we’ll even hem your pants while you wait.
BEAUTY STYLIST—Spend some one-on-one time with a Beauty Stylist, who’ll share helpful tips and recommend the best products for you across all our brands. They can even do your makeup with a free tutorial. On level one.
BISTRO VERDE—The menu at our full-service restaurant and bar features seasonal starters, salads, entrees and desserts made with fresh local ingredients—plus, specialty cocktails, wine and beer. On level three. [Our article on Bistro Verde]
CERTIFIED BRA FITTERS—Considering that four out of five women wear the wrong-size bra, we offer certified fit specialists to help you find the best styles. On level two.
CERTIFIED SHOE FITTERS—Our experts know what it takes for a perfect fit—even if your feet are two different sizes. On level one and three.
COMPLIMENTARY GIFT BOXES—Our signature silver gift boxes are free with your purchase—simply ask any salesperson.
CONCIERGE—This is the place to check your coat, store shopping bags and borrow an umbrella. We’ll even call you a cab, make restaurant recommendations and share sightseeing suggestions. On level one.
DEBUT REWARDS—As a Debut Rewards member, you’ll earn points whenever you shop at Nordstrom Pacific Centre—no matter how you pay. There’s no fee, no card. Just points that add up to Nordstrom Notes you can spend on anything. To join, just ask any salesperson. Restrictions apply. For details, go to www.nordstrom.com/debutrewardsca.
DIAPER CHANGING AREAS—Diaper-changing facilities are available in both men’s and women’s restrooms. On level one and two.
DRYBAR—Treat yourself to a professional blowout for $50, regardless of hair length or thickness (wash included!). Schedule your appointment at www.thedrybar.com, through the Drybar iPhone app or by calling (800) 898-9246. In Beauty, on level one.
EBAR—Refuel with a coffee drink, fruit smoothie, pastry, sandwich or salad—all made fresh daily. On level one.
FAMILY RESTOOM—Available for either parent to take their small children to the restroom, or for customers with special needs. Our women’s restroom offers a mother’s nursing area. On level two.
FREE DELIVERY TO DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER—We’ll deliver your purchase anywhere downtown within two hours (for free!). Same-day delivery within 15 km of our store for $15.
FREE WI-FI—Stay connected while you shop (because everyone needs to see those shoes you are trying on).
HABITANT—At our casual lounge, you can enjoy a snack, glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail. Our menu features salads, sandwiches and sides perfect as a light meal or shareable appetizer. On level two. [Our Article on Habitant]
JWN ROOM—Enjoy one-on-one time with a Personal Stylist in this private shopping suite. On level two.
LANGUAGE AMBASSADORS—We speak fashion in many languages—find out more at our Service Bar. On level one and three.
NORDSTROM GIFT CARDS—Give the card that gives. We donate 1% of all gift card sales to local nonprofits in our communities. To purchase, ask any salesperson, go to www.nordstrom.com or call 1.877.771.GIFT.
PERSONAL STYLISTS—It’s fast, fun, free—and zero pressure. Our Personal Stylists can help you with everything from a little fashion advice to whole new wardrobe to finding the perfect gift. Ready to get started? Just ask our Service Bar on levels one and three.
POP-IN@NORDSTOM— Curated by Olivia Kim, our Director of Creative Projects, Pop-In@Nordstrom is an ongoing series of themed pop-up shops that transitions every four-to-six weeks, each featuring a new mix of hand-picked merchandise spanning the high/low price range, with price points often starting at $5. Pop-In themes are temporary and ever-changing, so you’ll find a new shopping experience and batch of exclusive merchandise each time.
SERVICE BAR (includes free mobile phone charging) —Here you can buy a gift card, join our Rewards program, charge your phone, make a return—and more. On levels one and three.
SHOESHINE—Get your shoes buffed and polished by our professional shoeshiners for $2.50 (boots $3.50). We’ll also clean your sneakers while you wait for $2.50. On level three.
SPACE— Discover seasonal collections of ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories by emerging and advanced designers from around the world curated by Olivia Kim, our Director of Creative Projects. On level two. [Our article on the new department]
STUDIO SERVICES—We can help costume designers and stylists create looks for films, TV shows, commercials and more. On level two.
SUGARFINA—Indulge your sweet tooth at the first-ever candy store for grown-ups, featuring more than 150 gourmet sweets from small artisan candymakers from around the world. Sugarfina candies are beautifully packaged and presented—perfect for gift giving or treating yourself. On level one.
Nordstrom has provided a full list of brands carried in its 230,000 square foot Vancouver store, set to open Friday, September 18. The Pacific Centre location will carry far more brands than Nordstrom’s Calgary and Ottawa stores, including some exclusive concessions and shop-in-stores. This may not be surprising, given that Vancouver’s Nordstrom will be one of only six global flagships for the retailer. Nordstrom has also provided us with a full list of in-store services and amenities, which we have included in a separate article.
Prior to its 9:30 am opening, Nordstrom is holding a pre-opening beauty bash from 7:30 am until 9:30am, accessed via the 799 Robson Street entrance. You can get your makeup done and have free breakfast bites and coffee, with live music by Side One.
Nordstrom Pacific Centre features a remarkable number of upscale shops-in-stores, possibly more than any other Nordstrom location. Below, we will list its luxury shops-in-stores, followed by a listing of luxury designers. Following that, we will provide a full category-by-category list of designers, and will conclude with lists of its Canadian designers, as well the store’s brand exclusives.
RENDERING: NORDSTROM
Boutique Concessions:
Nordstrom’s Vancouver store features two high-profile luxury boutiques — Christian Louboutin footwear and accessories for women, and Delvaux women’s leathergoods. This will be Paris-based Louboutin’s second Canadian location (its first opened at Holt Renfrew‘s Toronto Yorkdale store in 2012) and Belgium’s Delvaux is exclusive to Nordstrom in Canada. Nordstrom’s only other Louboutin shop is in its Chicago flagship location, and we’re not aware of any other Nordstrom locations carrying Delvaux.
GROUND FLOOR ACCESSORIES, PHOTO BY HELEN SIWAK
Luxury Accessory Boutiques:
Nordstrom’s accessories department will feature boutiques for Balenciaga, Burberry, Céline, Chloé, Loewe, Longchamp, Saint Laurent Paris and Valentino (as well as Delvaux, mentioned above). This will be LVMH-owned Spanish luxury brand Loewe‘s first Canadian shop-in-store. Apart from Delvaux, all of the brands mentioned above are carried in nearby Holt Renfrew, though not in dedicated shop-in-stores.
GROUND FLOOR ACCESSORIES. RENDERING: NORDSTROM
Luxury Womens’ Ready-to-Wear Boutiques:
Nordstrom’s exceptional lineup of ready-to-wear boutiques includes Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Burberry, Céline, Saint Laurent Paris, Stella McCartney and Valentino. All brands are also carried at nearby Holt Renfrew, though none featured as shops-in-stores.
COLLECTORS ON 2. PHOTO: RITCHIE PO
Other Luxury Women’s Brands:
Women’s Ready-to-Wear: Nordstrom’s priciest women’s designer department is called Collectors (located on the Vancouver store’s second-floor), and it features the following luxury brands: Loewe, Milly, Missoni, Prabal Gurung, Anthony Vaccarello, Carolina Herrera, Carven, Jason Wu, Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta, Proenza Schouler, St. John Knits and Zac Posen.
Exclusives in the Vancouver store include Milly and Missoni. Nearby Hudson’s Bay‘s ‘The Room‘ also carries Prabal Gurung, Carven, Jason Wu and Proenza Schouler, while nearby Holt Renfrew carries Carven and Oscar de la Renta.
HANDBAGS, GROUND FLOOR. PHOTO: HELEN SIWAK
Accessories/Handbags: Most of Nordstrom’s luxury handbags brands will feature their own shops-in-stores, as described above. Luxury brands MCM, Jimmy Choo, WANT Les Essentials de la VieandStella McCartney will also be carried. Other handbags brands will include Coach, Frye, Kate Spade New York, Mackage, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Michael by Michael Kors, Rebecca Minkoff, Ted Baker London, Tory Burch and Vince.
GROUND FLOOR COSMETICS AND FOOTWEAR. PHOTO: RITCHIE PO
Women’s Footwear: Nordstrom will feature three women’s shoe departments, including its designer department called Salon Shoes. Luxury footwear brands will include Alexander McQueen, Alexander Wang, Balenciaga, Charlotte Olympia, Fendi, Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Lanvin, Manolo Blahnik, Miu Miu, PradaandValentino.
Most of these are carried in nearby Holt Renfrew, and Hudson’s Bay’s The Room carries Charlotte Olympia. Other footwear brands at Vancouver’s Nordstrom will include Ash, Born, Camper,Cole Haan, Donald J. Pliner, Franco Sarto, Frye, Ivanka Trump, Lucky, Nike, Opening Ceremony, Paul Green, Sam Edelman, Steve Madden, TOMS, Tory Burch, UGG Australia, Vans, Via Spiga and Vince Camuto.
WOMEN’S SHOES, GROUND FLOOR. PHOTO: RITCHIE PO
Men’s Apparel: Nordstrom’s Vancouver store will include a roster of luxury designers, as well as moderately-priced brands. Pricier labels will include Armani Collezioni, Hugo Boss, Burberry, Canali, Ermengildo Zegna, JW Anderson, Loewe, Marni, Moschino, Rick OwensandYohji Yamamoto. Other brands will include A.P.C., Ben Sherman, Billy Reid, Diesel, Gents, G-Star, Hart Schaffner Marx, Hickey Freeman, Howe, J Brand, Lacoste, Naked & Famous, Nike, Penfield, Peter Millar, Play by Comme Des Garcons, Psycho Bunny, Rag & Bone, Rogue, Samuelsohn, Scotch & Soda, Ted Baker London, Tim Coppens, Wings & Horns, and Zanerobe.
Men’s Footwear: Nordstrom will carry several pricey menswear labels including DSquared2, Salvatore Ferragamo, Guiseppe Zanotti, Jimmy Choo, John Lobb, MCM, Prada, Prada Linea Rossa, To Boot New York, Tod’s and WANT Les Essentials de la Vie (exclusive to Nordstrom in Vancouver). Nordstrom will also carry brands 1901, Calibrate, Monte Rosso, The Rail (all exclusives) as well as Aldo, Cole Haan, Common Projects, Nike, Pajar, Public School, Timberland, and Y-3 Yohji Yamamoto.
PERSONAL SHOPPING SUITE OVERLOOKING ROBSON STREET. PHOTOS: HELEN SIWAK
Below is a list of brands department-by-department, with less commentary than above:
Women’s Apparel: Exclusives: The following designers will be exclusive to Nordstrom in Vancouver: Alice + Olivia, Adieu, ARIES, Betony Vernon, Cameo, Caslon, Chelsea 28, Classiques Entier, Daniela Villegas, Delpozo, Earnest Sewn, Equipment, Faustine Steinmetz, Felicity & Coco, Finders Keepers, For Love & Lemons, Halogen, Herve Leger, Leith, Madewell, Mira Mikati, Nordstrom Collection & Caroline Issa, One Teaspoon, Rebecca Minkoff, Sara Lasry, SHRIMPS and URiBE.
Other Women’s Apparel Brands:10 Crosby Derek Lam, A.L.C., Adrianna Papell, ASTR, Autumn Cashmere, Hugo Boss Woman, Brandy Melville, Burberry Brit, Current/Elliott, Diane von Furstenberg, Eileen Fisher, Elie Saab, Eliza J, Frame Denim, Free People, Helmut Lang, IRO, Joie, Kate Spade New York, Kensie, Lafayette 148 New York, Lush, Marc by Marc Jacobs, McQ by Alexander McQueen, Opening Ceremony, Paige Premium Denim, Public School, Rag & Bone, Rebecca Taylor, Red Valentino, See by Chloe, Simone Rocha, T by Alexander Wang, Tadashi Shoji, Ted Baker London, Theory, Veronica Beard, Vetements, Vince, Vince Camuto and Wildfox.
Beauty Brands: Exclusives:Le Labo, Drybar blow out services, Parfums di Marly and Space NK. Other Beauty Brands: Amore Pacific, Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Studio, Antica Farmacista, Arcona, Aqua di Parma, Bobbi Brown, Burberry Beauty, Butter London, Chanel, Chantecaille, Charlotte Tilbury, Clarisonic, Cle de Peau Beaute, Clinique, Creed, Deborah Lippmann, Diptyque, Dior, Estée Lauder, Giorgio Armani, Guerlain, Jack Black, Jo Malone London, Kate Someville, Kiehl’s Since 1851, La Mer, La Prarie, Lancôme, Laura Mercier, MAC, Molton Brown, NARS, Nest, Shiseido, Shu Uemura, Tom Ford, Viktor & Rolf and YSL.
SAINT LAURENT WOMEN’S READY-TO-WEAR BOUTIQUE, UNDER CONSTRUCTION ON 2. PHOTO: HELEN SIWAK
Fine Jewellery: Exclusives: Bony Levy. Other Brands:Anne Sportun, Astley Clarke, Dana Rebecca, Lana Jewelry, Ginette, Jack Kelége, Kalan by Susanne Kalan, Kismet, Kwiat, Marco Bicego, Meira T, Poppy Finch, Roberto Coin, Zoe Chicco and more. Other Jewellery Brands: Alexis Bittar, Anna Beck, Argento Vivo, Kendra Scott, Leah Alexandra, Melanie Auld, Nadri and more.
Sunglasses Brands: Chanel, Céline, Dior, Gucci, Kate Spade New York, Karen Walker, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Prada, Ray Ban, Tom Ford and more.
PHOTO: RITCHIE PO
Watches: Exclusives:Bamford, Frederique Constant and Raymond Weil. Other Brands: Burberry, Fendi, Fossil, Gucci, Kate Spade New York, Michele, Movado, Nixon, Shinola, Skagen and more.
Lingerie and Hosiery Brands:35MM, Chantelle, Dita Von Teese, Free People Intimates, Hanky Panky, Happiness, Hue, Junkfood, L’Agent Provocateur, La Perla, Lauren Moshi, Lazy Pants, Mimi Holiday, Natori, Nubian Skin, Only Hearts, Skivvies, Sokoloff, Spanx, Wacoal, With Love Lingerie, Wolford and more.
MENSWEAR ON 3. PHOTO: RITCHIE PO
Swim Brands: Beach Riot, L Space, La Blanca, Maaji, Nanette Lepore, Proneza Schouler, Red Carter, Robin Piccone, Ted Baker London, Tory Burch, Trina Turk, Vitamin A and more.
Men’s Furinishings: Exclusives:Calibrate, Circle of Gentlemen, Eidos, Nordstrom, Pal Zileri, Rodd & Gun, Without Prejudice and YSL. Brands:Brioni, Bugatchi, Canali, David Donahue, Ermenegildo Zegna, Hugo Boss, JZ Richards, Paul Smith, Ray Ban, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ted Baker London, Todd Snyder, Tumi, Zegna Quindici and more.
CTV NEWS SCREEN CAPTURE. CLICK IMAGES FOR FULL VIDEO, COURTESY OF CTV.
Kids and Babies: Exclusives:C2 by Calibrate, Mini Boden, Nordstrom, Peek and Tucker + Tate. Brands:Armani, Burberry, Canada Goose, Hatley, Little Marc Jacobs, Mackage, Michael Kors, Milly, Spyder, The North Face, Thomas Dean, Under Armour Accessories, Vans and more.
Kid’s Shoes: Exclusives: Akid, C2 by Calibrate, Ruby & Bloom, Tucker + Tate and Zella. Brands:Converse, Freshly Picked, Hunter, Manitobah Mukluks, Nike, Polar Feet, Sorel, Steve Madden, Stride Rite, TOMS, UGG Australia and more.
PHOTO: HELEN SIWAK
California-based confectionery Sugarfina will operate a shop on the store’s ground-floor.
Nordstrom also broke the list down into Canadian brands carried: Exclusives: WANT Les Essentials de la Vie. Other Canadian Brands:Aldo, Anne Sportun, Arc’teryx, Canada Goose, DSquared2, Lazy Pants, Leah Alexandra, Mackage, Manitobah Mukluks, Melanie Auld, Mèreadesso, Pajar, Polar Feet, Poppy Finch, Santana, Soia & Kyo, Sokoloff, Wings + Horns, With Love Lingerie and more.
And finally, Nordstrom has provided a list of exclusives in its Vancouver store:
1901 (men’s shoes)
Adieu (women’s apparel)
Akid (kid’s shoes)
Alice + Olivia (women’s apparel)
Appolis (handbags)
ARIES (women’s apparel)
Bamford (watches)
Betony Vernon (women’s apparel)
Bony Levy (fine jewelry)
BP. (women’s shoes)
C2 by Calibrate (kids and babies kid’s shoes)
Calibrate (men’s furnishings, men’s shoes)
Cameo (women’s apparel)
Caslon (women’s apparel)
Chelsea 28 (women’s apparel)
Circle of Gentlemen (men’s furnishings)
Classiques Entier (women’s apparel)
Daniela Villegas (women’s apparel)
Delpozzo (women’s apparel)
Delvaux (handbags)
Drybar (beauty)
Earnest Sewn (women’s apparel)
Eidos (men’s furnishings)
Equipment (women’s apparel)
Faustine Steinmetz (women’s apparel)
Felicity & Coco (women’s apparel)
Finders Keepers (women’s apparel)
For Love & Lemons (women’s apparel)
Frederique Constant (watches)
Halogen (women’s apparel, women’s shoes)
Herve Leger (women’s apparel)
Hinge (women’s shoes)
Jimmy Choo (handbags)
KBR (women’s shoes)
Le Labo (beauty)
Leith (women’s apparel)
Loewe (women’s apparel)
Madewell (women’s apparel)
Milly (women’s apparel)
Mini Boden (kids and babies)
Mira Mikati (women’s apparel)
Missoni (women’s apparel)
Monte Rosso (men’s shoes)
Nordstrom (kids and babies, men’s furnishings)
Nordstrom Collection & Caroline Issa (women’s apparel)
One Teaspoon (women’s apparel)
Pal Zileri (men’s furnishings)
Parfums di Marly (beauty)
Pedro Garcia (women’s shoes)
Peek (kids and babies)
Pop
-In@Nordstrom
Prabal Gurung (women’s apparel)
Raymond Weil (watches)
Rebecca Minkoff (women’s apparel)
Rodd & Gun
Ruby & Bloom (kid’s shoes)
Sara Lasry (women’s apparel)
SHRIMPS (women’s apparel)
Space NK (beauty)
Sugarfina
The Rail (men’s shoes)
Treasure&Bond (women’s shoes)
Tucker + Tate (kids and babes, kid’s shoes)
URiBE (women’s apparel)
WANT Les Essentials de la Vie (handbags, men’s shoes)
Without Prejudice (men’s furnishings)
YSL (men’s furnishings)
Zella (active, kid’s shoes)
Photos in this article were taken by Retail Insider contributing editors Helen Siwak (owner of Vancouver-based eco-luxury lifestyle retailer THECloset YVR) and Ritchie Po (of THECloset YVR’s Knotwerk). Photos were taken during a media tour of the store on Thursday, September 10.
For a description of services and amenities in Vancouver’s Nordstrom, we have created a separate article.
SHERWOOD PARK MALL STORE. PHOTO: CHRISTA PATTERSON
Popular off-price footwear retailer DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse is continuing with its store expansion, after it entered Canada last year by acquiring the majority interest of Canadian retailer Town Shoes. Last week we interviewed DSW Canada CEO Bruce Dinan at the opening of the retailer’s 10th Canadian location at Sherwood Park Mall outside of Edmonton. Mr. Dinan revealed that the company plans to open up to 50 Canadian stores over the next several years, and that DSW’s search for real estate has become easier since Target exited Canada last winter.
DSW’s Sherwood Park Mall location is currently the chain’s smallest Canadian store. While most locations are in the 20,000 to 22,000 square foot range, Sherwood Park’s DSW measures just under 15,000 square feet. It appears quite spacious, however, featuring the retailer’s typical 20,000+ pairs of shoes. Mr. Dinan explained how the store’s fixtures were moved forward within the somewhat shallow space, creating more usable square footage while making the store appear larger.
PHOTO: CHRISTA PATTERSON
Mr. Dinan explained how DSW’s search for Canadian real estate has become a bit easier now that Target is no longer operating in Canada. More retail space has become available, and landlords are now even more eager to secure traffic-generating anchors such as DSW. Sherwood Park Mall lost its Target store last spring, which resulted in dead space and reduced foot traffic. Mall tenants we interviewed expressed gratitude at DSW’s arrival, while expressing concern that Target’s space at the south end of the mall continues to be vacant. Tenants may not have to worry for long, however, as a source at landlord Primaris reveals that it is in talks with several potential replacement tenants.
PHOTO: CHRISTA PATTERSON
We spoke with Antony Karabus, CEO of leading retail advisory firm HRC Advisory, and he said: “Town Shoes (DSW affiliate) is known as a well-managed chain that has been growing steadily for 50 plus years as a strong, reliable Canadian retail tenant. Now that it is having tremendous success operating DSW stores in Canada, with announced plans to open numerous locations, I am not surprised that landlords are finding the company to be a very attractive tenant. There are not many profitably growing retailers opening multiple 20,000+ square foot stores. This bodes well for Town Shoes to obtain the quality of locations they are seeking.”
On Thursday, September 17, DSW opens locations in suburban Toronto (Scarborough) and in Barrie, Ontario. Later this fall, another Toronto location will open near Sherway Gardens. Mr. Dinan said that DSW is finalizing lease negotiations for more stores, and that Retail Insider will be able to reveal DSW’s next Canadian locations around the middle of October.
In October, Quebec City-based customer menswear retailer Surmesur will open its fifth location, and it plans to continue growing in order to serve its increasing roster of clients. We spoke with its co-founder to gain insight into its technological innovations and price competitiveness, as well as its real estate strategy which involves avoiding shopping centres.
Founded by brothers Vincent and Frank Thériault in 2010, Surmesur manufactures and retails men’s made-to-measure clothing which includes custom suits, shirts, blazers, trousers and other garments. It combines body-scanning and manufacturing technologies with traditional methods, boasting a catalog of over 8000 fabrics with a wide assortment of collars, buttons, and sleeves. Surmesur endeavours to keep its costs down to keep prices reasonable and as a result, custom shirts are priced from $60 and suits start at $375. After measurements and fabric/button/design choices are made, suits are ready in four-to-six weeks.
Co-founder Vincent Thériault revealed that he and his brother created the company in order to “change the way men dress”. He explained how he has never been a fan of shopping, so he sought to create a convenient experience for busy men who wear suits and other dressy apparel. Given the trend towards men increasingly expressing individuality in their clothing choices, Surmesur’s customization capabilities proved particularly compelling.
In October, Surmesur will open its second Montreal-area location in Laval. The 3,000 square foot shop is located at 2200 Le Corbusier Boulevard, close to popular Le Carrefour Laval shopping centre. Mr. Thériault explained how his company chooses to operate free-standing locations as destinations rather than locating in malls, partly due to the often high rents within Canadian shopping centres. Cost savings are passed on to customers and as a result, Surmesur’s prices are often lower than competing made-to-measure menswear retailers.
Surmesur currently operates stores in Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. Its 1,200 square foot Quebec City unit, the company’s first, has just expanded to 2,700 square feet in order to accommodate new business. Its Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto locations are all centrally located near central business districts, capturing business from men who typically wear dressier attire. Surmesur stores are ideally in the 2,200 square foot to 3,000 square foot range, according to Mr. Thériault, featuring clean white facades and interiors.
Longer-term, Mr. Thériault revealed that his company will look to expand organically, and that it will consider new markets if locations prove strategic. Although no new locations can be revealed, he said that the company is open to expanding into new markets as opportunities arise. The retailer’s popularity, primarily due to its customization and reasonable pricing, will see it potentially rival the best homegrown and international made-to-measure competitors.
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There’s hardly a day that goes by without news about data breaches, illegal hacking and identity theft. No entity seems to be immune, including retailers. Criminal fraudsters are illegally getting access to millions of consumer credit card details and private data files, even while new payment systems are evolving with new technology and capturing consumer spending habits. This is further amplified by the advent of mobility into the mix. Mobile payments has captured the imagination of the Millennial generation, and the need for better fraud protection is now more important than ever.
The Fraud 360 World Tour will be landing in Vancouver on September 22 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 655 Burrard Street. Kount brings this half-day, free seminar to you with discussions about payments, fraud trends, and best practices standards that you can adapt to your business. In addition, complimentary breakfast and lunch will be provided. Register quickly because seating is limited.
Who should attend: Key decision makers, influencers, and professionals responsible for financial, technology and fraud prevention initiatives. The Fraud 360 World Tour allows business professionals from various organizations to access the latest technology advancements needed to fight fraud.
8:30 am – Registration / Breakfast 9:00 am – Sessions 1 & 2 10:30 am – Break 10:45 am – Sessions 3 & 4 12:15 pm – Lunch / Q&A
Sessions will provide an overview on timely topics and best practice standards that you can adapt to your business.
1) Cross Border – Out of the country, Out of control
Speaker: Steve Casco, Chief Executive Officer, CardNotPresent.com Steve Casco explores the opportunities and challenges inherent in selling globally. Hear about the rise of Asia and an opportunity gap your business could exploit, how mobile is driving cross-border sales and how finding the right partners can grease the rails of international expansion.
2) Staying Out of Chargeback Hell
Speaker: Don Bush, Vice President of Marketing, Kount Chargebacks are the number one indicator of a fraud problem, but the way chargebacks are reported to merchants makes it difficult to determine how and why they occurred. We’ll review common symptoms of fraud that can cause chargebacks and best practices to avoid them in the future.
3) Merchant Case Study: Fraud in the Omni-Channel, The Source
Speaker: Greg Coles, Director of E-Commerce Operations, The Source Electronics For almost 23 years, Greg has been a part of The Source, working with fraud detection for the last 8 years. Greg has seen his company adapt and innovate to the changing environments, including the migration to E-Commerce and Mobile purchasing. His breadth of knowledge and experience is beyond reproach and will provide a unique insight into the fraud landscape for a successful heavily targeted Omni-Channel retail business.
Given the usefulness of the topics and the fact that it’s free, available spaces will fill up quickly. Register now and reserve your space at Fraud 360™ in Vancouver.
American luxury retailer Saks Fifth Avenue has revealed opening dates for its first two Canadian stores. Both are set to open in Toronto in February, with the first being Saks’ Canadian flagship. Saks Fifth Avenue will open up to eight Canadian locations over the next several years.
Saks will open its 170,000 square foot Canadian flagship on February 18, 2016. Located within the Hudson’s Bay building at Toronto Eaton Centre, the store will be “designed with our New York flagship in mind, keeping the spirit and grandeur of Saks as inspiration”, according to Saks. The store will also provide personal shopping, which it describes as an “intimate shopping service that will provide a personal shopper who will travel to your home or office with merchandise specifically selected for you, including, but not limited to beauty, styling and tailoring”.
Saks’ second Canadian location, measuring in excess of 130,000 square feet, will open February 25, 2016 at Toronto’s Sherway Gardens. The Sherway store “will feature an open format so customers can easily navigate their way through as they shop”, according to Saks.
Saks also revealed that its expansive designer shoe salon 10022-SHOE will be coming to Canada, as will its Fifth Avenue Club for personal shopping.
Saks will open up to eight Canadian locations, focusing on Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and possibly Calgary. Saks will feature ‘food halls’ in its Canadian stores, and it has confirmed that Pusateri’s Fine Foods will operate within its first two Toronto locations. Saks recently indicated that it has secured most of its desired flagship brands for its Toronto Eaton Centre location, despite Holt Renfrew’s luxury dominance.
Popular Toronto-based outerwear brand nobis (Latin for “us”, spelled with a lower-case “n”) has opened its first North American flagship in Toronto, and it has plans to further expand its already successful wholesale operations. We spoke with Vice President Robin Yates to learn more about the company’s plans for Canada, as well as its intentions to open free-standing stores internationally.
Mr. Yates founded nobis in 2007, and it quickly grew to become a lifestyle brand. The company is primarily known for its technical, functional and fashionable outerwear as well as headwear, knitwear and footwear. Remarkably, unlike competitors, its down-filled jackets are machine-washable. The company says that it embraces “the conviction that trends may come and go, but style, function and quality remain timeless”. The brand is carried in various retailers in Canada including Holt Renfrew, Sport Chek, Boys’Co and Mendocino. American luxury retailer Neiman Marcus recently picked up the line for its U.S. stores, and nobis is now carried in about 40 countries.
The company’s first North American flagship just opened at 360 Queen Street West in Toronto’s popular Queen Street West area. The 3,000 square foot retail space was formerly occupied by French Connection, which has closed most of its Canadian stores.
Having a dedicated storefront is strategic for the brand, according to HRC Advisory President Farla Efros. She explained how dedicated mono-brand boutiques allow owner/operators to create a unique customer experience through a more ‘hands-on’ approach, while controlling the brand message. She explained these boutiques create a strong testing mechanism to help understand what works and what doesn’t, while allowing the brand to build ‘street credibility’ before moving into the mainstream, which requires more diligence.
Image Nobis
INSIDE THE NEW TORONTO STORE. PHOTO: NOBIS
Prior to its Toronto store opening, nobis’ only free-standing location was in Paris, France. Mr. Yates explained the company’s ambitious international expansion plans, including how the brand intends to open free-standing stores in Milan, New York City, and in Stockholm, Sweden, as well as replace its current Paris flagship.
The company will also expand its collection of shops-in-stores as well as its international wholesale accounts, as nobis is now available in over 40 countries. Mr. Yates explained that at the moment, the Toronto store is its only planned location for Canada, as nobis continues to foster careful and meaningful relationships with its Canadian wholesale accounts.
