Matt & Nat Launches Aggressive Standalone Store Expansion

Date:

Share post:

Montreal-based eco-friendly accessory fashion brand Matt & Nat is launching an expansion this year that will see it rapidly expand its store count in Canada, as well as expand into the United States with its first stores. The company is also launching a premium line of accessories this month that will include luxury detailing and design.

The highly respected Matt & Nat brand (short for “mat(t)erial” and “nature”), which was founded in Montreal in 1995, is known for not using leather or any other animal-based materials in its bag and accessory designs. Since 2007, it has been committed to using linings only made out of 100% recycled plastic bottles, and it recently introduced recycled bicycle tires to its collections. The brand launched with a collection of accessories and it has since expanded to also carry a range of footwear designs. Matt & Nat wholesales to retailers in Canada as well as globally, and it also has a robust ecommerce business at mattandnat.com/shop.

According to Manny Kohli, President and owner of Matt & Nat, the company is about to launch a new premium collection called ‘Studio 901’. The line will include a range of accessories that will look and feel luxurious, featuring gold hardware, exceptional fabrics, and a range of colours.

Matt & Nat only recently got into retailing and according to Mr. Kohli, its stores are very successful. Matt & Nat’s first freestanding store opened in March of 2016 at the CF Carrefour Laval shopping centre near Montreal, with about 1,000 square feet of retail space. A second store opened in October 2016, spanning about 1,400 square feet at Quartier DIX30, in Brossard, and a third location opened in Ottawa’s CF Rideau Centre in May of 2017, with about 1,400 square feet on the mall’s second level. Most recently, Matt & Nat opened two Toronto-area stores — one at CF Sherway Gardens in Toronto spanning 1,470 square feet, as well as a 1,450 square foot location at Square One in Mississauga. The company also operates an outlet store at Premium Outlets Montreal.

This fall, Matt & Nat is launching an expansion that will see it open more stores in Canada and, for the first time, in the United States. On November 15, the brand will open its second outlet store at Premium Outlets Toronto, which is expanding its property while adding a roster of leading luxury brands. This month, as well, Matt & Nat is opening two pop-up locations in the New York City area — one is in the Soho area in Manhattan, and the other at Roosevelt Field on Long Island. If all goes as planned, permanent locations could follow.

In the spring of 2019, Matt & Nat will open its first store in Western Canada at CF Chinook Centre in Calgary, marking the beginning of a cross-Canada expansion that could see more locations open in Alberta as well as British Columbia. Mr. Kohli explained how Western Canada is a leading market for Matt & Nat and as such, targeted locations will include Edmonton and Vancouver, the latter which could support as many as three standalone stores, he said.

As well, Matt & Nat’s first store location at CF Carrefour Laval in suburban Montreal will be relocating in the spring of 2019. Mr. Kohli explained that the brand has outgrown its initial 1,000 square foot space, and that its new store will measure an impressive 1,800 square feet, making it the company’s flagship.

As many as 15 Matt & Nat stores could open in 2019, according to Mr. Kohli, in leading malls as well as on significant commercial high streets. The company is negotiating with landlords on the US West Coast in top malls in markets such as metropolitan Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and Los Angeles, with announcements to be made once lease deals are finalized.

More locations are planned for Canada as well, and the standalone expansion will be done carefully so as to respect the brand’s valued wholesale accounts. The goal is to continue to grow Matt & Nat’s brand awareness to drive sales at all distribution points, not to mention its expansive e-commerce site. Mr. Kohli said that the company could open a third outlet store in Western Canada, though the company will focus on opening mainline stores as it grows.

Mr. Kohli revealed that the brand could even expand outside of North America, with the company eyeing a retail space on popular Regent Street in London, UK. The multi-level retail space could become a showpiece for the brand if secured.

Matt & Nat is working with brokerage Oberfeld Snowcap for its store expansion, under the direction of Jay Freedman and Jessica Millet.

Retail Insider will follow up and report on Matt & Nat as it ramps ups its international expansion — the brand is another example of a Canadian brand that is resonating with global consumers.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

More From Retail Insider

Bloor Street Retail Transformation: Luxury Brands, Renovations, and New Openings in Toronto [Podcast]

Craig and Lee take a deep dive into the dynamic changes occurring on Toronto's Bloor Street West, noting the street's resurgence as a thriving hub for luxury shopping in the city.

Ricardo’s Kandy Korner to Open Flagship Candy Store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre in Toronto [Interview]

Entrepreneur Ricardo Rizaie says he’s planning to take his experiential candy retail concept across Canada after opening a third Canadian storefront in downtown Toronto.

PizzaForno Expands Into Toronto’s Public Transit System, Sets Sights on Airport Locations for Automated 3-Minute Pizzas [Interview]

This innovative move marks PizzaForno's entry into the public transit sector, and demonstrates its commitment to becoming the fastest-growing pizza chain in North America by 2024.

Calgary’s Retail Space Crunch Drives Surge in Rental Rates and Demand [Report]

A variety of complicated factors are at play as Calgary retail space sees demand given market growth, while new supply is limited due to factors such as construction costs.

Lush Cosmetics Sets Ambitious Expansion Plans for Canada Including New Spa Locations, Services, and Entertainment Partnerships [Interview]

The UK-based retailer is innovating with its Canadian operations with enhanced customer experiences and unique treatments, while launching a new app to facilitate bookings and provide more information about products and services.

Canadian Consumers Adjust to Higher Cost of Living [Survey/Video Interview]

An Angus Reid survey asked Canadians how they're navigating elevated inflation, a higher cost of living and a potential recession.

Canadian Shoppers Embrace Generative AI for Shopping Suggestions: Report

The groundbreaking Salesforce report focuses on the growing importance of AI-driven personalization in the retail sector.

Inside the New KITH Store on Yorkville Avenue in Toronto [Photos]

The stunning storefront took months to build, features Kith Treats and a restaurant concept from New York City, and could be a game changer for the Bloor-Yorkville area. 

Canadians Gear Up for Early Holiday Shopping Amid Economic Uncertainty [Feature Report]

As concerns about inflation and supply chain challenges persist, shoppers are on the lookout for deals and exploring alternative places to find gifts while controlling overall spending, says a report by Field Agent.

Walmart Canada Announces $50 Million Investment in Associate Career Development [Interview]

Walmart Canada's education program will support career-driven learning for associates, benefitting both employees and the retailer according to AnnMarie Mercer.

Eliminating Plastics Should not Jeopardize Food Security In Canada [Op-Ed]

Sylvain Charlebois says that concerns are being raised about potential increases to food losses and food prices, while at the same time Canada's unique logistical and trade realities are being overlooked.

Neo Coffee Bar Announces Major Expansion Plans, Including New Downtown Toronto Locations and a Foray into Japanese Cocktails [Interview]

The brand plans to continue growing more rapidly over the next several years in high traffic GTA locations.

Ren’s Pets Expands Toronto Footprint with Three New Stores, Launches Extensive Halloween Collection [Interview]

Pet owners are increasingly seeking costumes, accessories, and treats for their furry companions, with the trend of matching outfits growing during the pandemic.

Browns Shoes to Return to Toronto’s Bloor Street with New Storefront

The Canadian footwear retailer had a presence in the area for decades until recently, and now it returns in a space that is steps from Holt Renfrew.

IKEA Unveils State-of-the-Art 1 Million Square-Foot Distribution Centre in Quebec [Interview]

The new facility aims to enhance IKEA's omnichannel capabilities, serving as a hub for store distribution and direct e-commerce order fulfillment, incorporating automation and environmentally friendly features, with a LEED Silver certification.

Atelier Munro Expands with 2nd Canadian Made-to-Measure Menswear Store in Calgary’s Beltline Neighbourhood [Interview]

The Amsterdam-based menswear brand, known for its made-to-measure clothing, is expanding across Canada with new locations in major markets.

Esprit to Open 1st Canadian Flagship in Vancouver in December, Eyes Toronto for 2024 [CEO Interview]

The brand, which exited Canada over a decade ago, is returning under new leadership with large-format stores and a new strategy.

Canadians Wanting to Learn about Grocery Competition Should Look at the U.S. [Op-Ed]

Sylvain Charlebois says that Canada relies more on corporate goodwill, with a less proactive approach to antitrust concerns -- but as Canadians become more concerned about food pricing, the country may need to reevaluate its approach to foster competition in the food sector.

T&T Supermarket to Open Store Near Yonge & Dundas in Downtown Toronto [Renderings/Interview]

The new store at the base of the former World's Biggest Bookstore will serve local residents and university students, offering a range of ready-to-eat meals and traditional Asian groceries.

CF Chinook Centre in Calgary Undergoes Major Revamp with 35 New, Relocated, or Renovated Tenants in One Year [Interview]

The regional shopping centre continues to dominate the market - thousands recently lined up for the opening of Uniqlo, while Zara will double its size this year.

RECENT RETAIL INSIDER VIDEOS

Advertisment

Subscribe to the Newsletter

Subscribe

* indicates required

RECENT articles

Bloor Street Retail Transformation: Luxury Brands, Renovations, and New Openings in Toronto [Podcast]

Craig and Lee take a deep dive into the dynamic changes occurring on Toronto's Bloor Street West, noting the street's resurgence as a thriving hub for luxury shopping in the city.

Ricardo’s Kandy Korner to Open Flagship Candy Store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre in Toronto [Interview]

Entrepreneur Ricardo Rizaie says he’s planning to take his experiential candy retail concept across Canada after opening a third Canadian storefront in downtown Toronto.

PizzaForno Expands Into Toronto’s Public Transit System, Sets Sights on Airport Locations for Automated 3-Minute Pizzas [Interview]

This innovative move marks PizzaForno's entry into the public transit sector, and demonstrates its commitment to becoming the fastest-growing pizza chain in North America by 2024.

Calgary’s Retail Space Crunch Drives Surge in Rental Rates and Demand [Report]

A variety of complicated factors are at play as Calgary retail space sees demand given market growth, while new supply is limited due to factors such as construction costs.

Lush Cosmetics Sets Ambitious Expansion Plans for Canada Including New Spa Locations, Services, and Entertainment Partnerships [Interview]

The UK-based retailer is innovating with its Canadian operations with enhanced customer experiences and unique treatments, while launching a new app to facilitate bookings and provide more information about products and services.

Canadian Consumers Adjust to Higher Cost of Living [Survey/Video Interview]

An Angus Reid survey asked Canadians how they're navigating elevated inflation, a higher cost of living and a potential recession.

Canadian Shoppers Embrace Generative AI for Shopping Suggestions: Report

The groundbreaking Salesforce report focuses on the growing importance of AI-driven personalization in the retail sector.

Inside the New KITH Store on Yorkville Avenue in Toronto [Photos]

The stunning storefront took months to build, features Kith Treats and a restaurant concept from New York City, and could be a game changer for the Bloor-Yorkville area. 

Canadians Gear Up for Early Holiday Shopping Amid Economic Uncertainty [Feature Report]

As concerns about inflation and supply chain challenges persist, shoppers are on the lookout for deals and exploring alternative places to find gifts while controlling overall spending, says a report by Field Agent.

Walmart Canada Announces $50 Million Investment in Associate Career Development [Interview]

Walmart Canada's education program will support career-driven learning for associates, benefitting both employees and the retailer according to AnnMarie Mercer.

Eliminating Plastics Should not Jeopardize Food Security In Canada [Op-Ed]

Sylvain Charlebois says that concerns are being raised about potential increases to food losses and food prices, while at the same time Canada's unique logistical and trade realities are being overlooked.

Neo Coffee Bar Announces Major Expansion Plans, Including New Downtown Toronto Locations and a Foray into Japanese Cocktails [Interview]

The brand plans to continue growing more rapidly over the next several years in high traffic GTA locations.

Ren’s Pets Expands Toronto Footprint with Three New Stores, Launches Extensive Halloween Collection [Interview]

Pet owners are increasingly seeking costumes, accessories, and treats for their furry companions, with the trend of matching outfits growing during the pandemic.

Browns Shoes to Return to Toronto’s Bloor Street with New Storefront

The Canadian footwear retailer had a presence in the area for decades until recently, and now it returns in a space that is steps from Holt Renfrew.

IKEA Unveils State-of-the-Art 1 Million Square-Foot Distribution Centre in Quebec [Interview]

The new facility aims to enhance IKEA's omnichannel capabilities, serving as a hub for store distribution and direct e-commerce order fulfillment, incorporating automation and environmentally friendly features, with a LEED Silver certification.

Atelier Munro Expands with 2nd Canadian Made-to-Measure Menswear Store in Calgary’s Beltline Neighbourhood [Interview]

The Amsterdam-based menswear brand, known for its made-to-measure clothing, is expanding across Canada with new locations in major markets.

Esprit to Open 1st Canadian Flagship in Vancouver in December, Eyes Toronto for 2024 [CEO Interview]

The brand, which exited Canada over a decade ago, is returning under new leadership with large-format stores and a new strategy.

Canadians Wanting to Learn about Grocery Competition Should Look at the U.S. [Op-Ed]

Sylvain Charlebois says that Canada relies more on corporate goodwill, with a less proactive approach to antitrust concerns -- but as Canadians become more concerned about food pricing, the country may need to reevaluate its approach to foster competition in the food sector.

T&T Supermarket to Open Store Near Yonge & Dundas in Downtown Toronto [Renderings/Interview]

The new store at the base of the former World's Biggest Bookstore will serve local residents and university students, offering a range of ready-to-eat meals and traditional Asian groceries.

CF Chinook Centre in Calgary Undergoes Major Revamp with 35 New, Relocated, or Renovated Tenants in One Year [Interview]

The regional shopping centre continues to dominate the market - thousands recently lined up for the opening of Uniqlo, while Zara will double its size this year.