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2018 Edition
GOOD
STORES
GUIDE
— Global retail best practice explored
London Las Vegas San Francisco
Helsinki Edinburgh Stockholm
Gran Canaria Berlin Dubai
Hong Kong Toronto
www.visualthinking.co.uk @shoptactics
2018 Edition
Visual Thinking is
dedicated to inspiring
retail performance.
We take stores from the everyday to the
exceptional, defining and transforming
retailers’ most important and enduring
assets - their instore experiences, and
the retail teams who deliver them.
Credits
Design
Paul Harris
Tom Doores
02 Nephew Media
Photography & Illustration
Tom Doores Rucksack Mag
Karl McKeever Wenni Zhou
Sanjeev Kugan Rob Bye
Matthew Henry Kate Trysh
Anthony Delanoix Daria Nepriakhina
Kirsten Paynter Dan Freeman
Adam Wilson Alex Halperin
Editorial
Marc Baker
Kay Garrett
Contributors
Karl McKeever
Tim Kennedy
Jasmine Field
Designed by
DSGNLAB
NN6 9HF
UK
www.dsgnlab.com
Be inspired, respect copyrights!
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopy or any storage and retrieval
system, without permission in writing from Visual Thinking.
www.visualthinking.co.uk
#goodstoresguide
Made in the UK
Published by Visual Thinking
© Visual Thinking 2018 www.visualthinking.co.uk
03
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition
Your guide to Good
What makes a store inspiring? Is it product, service, layout, concept...
or the intrigue, passion and audacity that turns a good retailer into
an excellent retailer? There’s no simple combination that produces a
winning formula, which is what makes retail so enthralling.
We’ve travelled the globe in search of As we begin 2018, times are pretty
finding the best of the best, bringing tough for retail. This is set to be the year
them here to you in our 2018 Good that ‘retail transformation’ dominates
Stores Guide. We believe each of headlines and boardroom agendas.
them demonstrates retail excellence, This guide will hopefully act as a
strengthening the aspiration of us reminder that the future of physical is
all: better is always achievable. Each still bright. Senior decision makers need
has been selected on its own merits to find that spark of inspiration to set
and for different reasons. Some are them on the path to better, and they will
game changers. Others represent the find it within these pages. Time-starved
latest incarnation of already successful retail executives often don’t get the
brands. Great customer service is the opportunity to look beyond their own
focus of some, while sublime visual field of vision; so here’s the chance to
merchandising is at the heart of others. look through our eyes. We’ve worked
But what they all have in common is all over the world with international retail
that they’ve made our definitive list of clients, and here we tell the story of
must-visit stores in 2018. success, and showcase some of the
best retail experiences in the world. The
Good Stores Guide serves to inform
and inspire instore activity, acting as
a benchmark for future plans against
some of the best examples on offer.
We’re often asked the question,
and here’s the answer.
This is what good looks like.
Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition
Featured Stores & Other Stores
06 Berlin YUN 54 Helsinki Artek
10 Helsinki iittala 54 Las Vegas Christian Louboutin
14 Toronto BITE 54 Toronto Cumbrae’s
18 Hong Kong Nike Kicks Lounge 54 Las Palmas Worten
22 Stockholm Pen Store 54 San Francisco Rapha
25 Las Vegas Honolulu Cookie 55 Toronto Woolrich
Company 55 San Francisco China Live
29 Stockholm BIKEID 55 London Nasty Gal
33 London ASICS 55 Dubai DKNY
37 Edinburgh Kestin Hare 55 Edinburgh Walker Slater
41 Toronto Reigning Champ
45 San Francisco Saje
05 49 Dubai Mint Velvet
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition
BERLIN
5 2 ° 31’3 9. 9 ” N
13 ° 2 4’ 0 9. 3 ” E
Offering a surprising focus on independent
retail, brands in Berlin are meticulous about
service. And taking an everyday service
to new heights, YUN is a perfect blend of
high concept design, innovative technology
and service speed.
6
YUN
YUN
The epitome of cutting-edge cool, YUN’s
Pay a visit
state-of-the-art lab is the place to go for
customised glasses with a twist of chic.
Good Stores Guide Rating
Brand Experience
Innovation
VM/Presentation
Retail Execution
Customer Service
7
8
Modern, minimalistic and elegant, the The store environment has been by super-fast fulfilment – it takes about 20
timeless glasses on sale at YUN give a developed to resemble an innovative minutes to prepare prescription glasses.
masterclass in display precision, with luxury lab, achieved
the low density and thoughtful layout by creating a sense
A great example of how
creating a smart, exclusive environment. of drama instore, for
Along with discreet pricing and customer example showing the
an everyday services
information, the expert, curated look is expensive technical retailer can redefine
one exuding ‘medical confidence’. elements such as new standards of design.
the high-end optical
facilities within the appointment rooms.
Not here the bland ubiquity typically found
in this sector. YUN is a prescription optical
This is combined with a trendy Asian business with a difference, combining
fashion boutique look. The concept elegant design with innovative production
communicates a sense of confidence technology. It’s a great example of how
through the use of expensive, quality tech an everyday services retailer can redefine
and with expert, personalised boutique- new standards of design, not content to
style service. The slow, thoughtful retail coast along the middle of the road with its
environment is perfectly complemented competitors
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition
9
HELSINKI
6 0 °10 ’ 0 4 . 6 ” N
2 4°5 6’5 9.6 ” E
Helsinki has transformed itself into
the place to be for cool entrepreneurs.
Retail here is distinctly Finnish in style,
and shining Scandinavian star iittala
brings traditional craftsmanship into
the modern age.
10
iittala11
iittala
iittala follows a progressive philosophy of
creating timeless designs that will never be Pay a visit
thrown away, bringing a riot of colour, shapes
and styles to its pieces.
P OHJOISESPLANADI
POHJOISESPLANADI
Good Stores Guide Rating
Brand Experience
ETELAESPLANADI
Innovation
VM/Presentation
FABIANINKATU
Retail Execution
Customer Service
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionMore of a museum than a store, with the products as
the amazing discoveries on display, iittala simply oozes
Clean, bright lighting
Scandinavian chic. Clean, sleek and modern interiors, contributes to the modern
with glassware championed on fitting displays, it feel of the store.
offers a true sensory experience filled with shapes and
colours.
The story of the brand is told playfully through an
array of devices – some areas of the store feature
clear glass that bounces around the light near light-
coloured wooden fixtures, while other areas feature
deep blue coloured glass that sets the mood of the
store. Darker areas draw you inexorably deeper into
the store towards the amazing glassware on display,
leaving shoppers in no doubt these products are made
by auteurs in their craft. Shoppers know exactly who
has designed and created the products, adding to the
notion that these items are truly bespoke.
1213
The store is unashamedly Scandinavian, The iittala brand is about the expertise of
from its pared-back minimalistic design its designers and glassmakers, celebrating
to its product displays. The products them as brand legends. From its inception
themselves are perfectly presented, as a glass factory in 1881 to its modern
making them easy to shop, browse and incarnation also selling ceramics and
discover. Clean, bright lighting contributes other kitchen and homewares, it has now
to the modern feel of the store, cleverly achieved the near impossible, pursuing
bouncing the light off the glassware, traditional craftsmanship while confidently
with products also lit from below with embracing innovation
lightboxes.
Instore greenery and comfortable seating
helps the store to feel homey but at the
same time comfortably angular. There’s no
pressure to buy here, simply a slow, easy
and enjoyable shopping experience.
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionTORONTO
4 3 ° 3 8 ’4 8 . 4” N
7 9 ° 2 4’2 6 . 8 ” W
Multicultural, cosmopolitan and
eclectic, Toronto boasts a fierce blend
of influences. It’s the perfect home
for BITE as it brings a new direction
for beauty retailing, offering a unique
experience to shoppers as they step
14
into the world of cosmetics chemistry.
BITE15
BITE
ON ST
B I N S
RO
Pay a visit
Innovation in cosmetics at its finest... the Lip
Lab concept from BITE is a haven for make-up
EU C
junkies keen to try their hand at DIY lipsticks.
LID A
VE
Good Stores Guide Rating EN ST W
QUE
Brand Experience
Innovation
STW
QUEEN
VM/Presentation
D ST W
Retail Execution MO N
RICH
Customer Service
TEC
UMS
LL AVE
T C H E
MI
ETH
ST
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionLess a traditional retail environment and The store is small, with a boutique air For most shoppers, the personal
more of a studio space, BITE is the and an edge of simple Scandinavian experience of making their own unique
ultimate beauty experience for cosmetics design, complemented by bright, clean lipstick is the reason for a visit, although
enthusiasts. lighting. It’s the perfect environment the store does sell its own pre-made
for lovers of lipstick to really come into products – again made from natural
their own as they customise the finish, ingredients.
At the long cosmetics bar, shoppers can taste and texture
experiment with making their own lipstick
– using all-natural ingredients – with
of their lipstick. The store team are a huge
Shoppers should
the help of a dedicated Lip Lab Artist. be prepared for a
part of the store; professionals
Through a large window they can then little inevitable mess in their craft, friendly,
watch as their custom lipstick is prepared in this area, but approachable and engaging.
and cooked up – an intriguing process. the store team are
hot on cleaning and it simply adds to
BITE is a breath of fresh air in an often
the artistic atmosphere. In fact, the
stagnant sector of retailing, offering a new
store team are a huge part of the store,
direction and progression. One to watch
clearly professionals in their craft, friendly,
approachable and engaging.
1617
HONG KONG
2 2 °17 ’4 6 .7 ” N
114°10 ’ 0 8 . 0 ” E
The high octane and intense world of
retail in Hong Kong makes the Nike Kicks
Lounge a real trailblazer. Effortlessly
blending energy and calm, it offers
shoppers a memorable experience and
customised, premium-quality products.
18
Nike
Kicks
Lounge
Visual Thinking Good Stores Guide 2018 EditionNike Kicks
Lounge
KOW
Pay a visit
LOO
Exploration and experimentation
CANTO
N PA
are at the heart of the Nike Kicks
RK D
N R OA
Lounge as shoppers enjoy the heady
G A T EW
R
combination of energy and serenity.
D
AY B L
VD
Good Stores Guide Rating
Brand Experience
RD
PEKIN G
Innovation
KOW
VM/Presentation
LOO
Retail Execution
CAN TO
N PA
RK D
19 Customer Service
N R OA
R
D
OU R C IT Y
HARB
URY RD
SALISB20
Featuring a range of zones to encourage shoppers
to explore, rather than simply head to one area,
the Nike Kicks Lounge is an intriguing combination
of energy and chilled-out
relaxation. Certain areas of the store are
almost hypnotic, as shoppers
Young and stylish sports are drawn in to explore.
enthusiasts flock to the
store, where they can customise their Nike trainers
with a range of colours and finishes. The instore
presentation is simply amazing. Displays are
accentuated by bright lights, and the stand-out
feature is something to behold – a circular collage
of trainers on the wall, reinforcing both the custom
offer and the importance of ‘you’ as a shopper.
The store environment, however, remains laid back
21 – it’s no coincidence the store is called a ‘Lounge’
– as it focuses on offering a considered and
unhurried retail experience. It’s a perfect balance
of energy and calm, clever, well thought out and
wonderfully executed.
The lighting plays a big part, highlighting fixtures
and laying out a path to entice shoppers
to explore. Certain areas of the store are
mesmerising, almost hypnotic, as shoppers are
drawn in to explore and touch products and
displays, effortlessly commanding attention.
This store is a great example of how Nike is really
playing to its brand supporters and community –
a factor that keeps it up there as THE brand for
sportswear and performance footwear
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionSTOCKHOLM
5 9 °19 ’ 0 3 . 6 ” N
18 ° 0 3 ’ 0 6 . 9 ” E
A riot of international brands and
domestic retailers, Stockholm is perfect
for the passionate shopper. And with
its hive of hipster quirkiness, Pen Store
is reaching out to those among them
looking to ditch the digital.
22
Pen Store23
Pen Store
Pay a visit
Keeping the physical product alive and ATA N
RING
R K A G
NKY
kicking, Pen Store takes a traditional BR€N
V€GE
focus on the age-old art of writing.
N
AT AN
Good Stores Guide Rating HO R N S G
Brand Experience
AT AN
Innovation HORNSG
GAT AN
A R
VM/Presentation M A K
KRUK
Retail Execution
Customer Service G ATAN
AK A R
M
KRUK
RING
V€GE
N
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionWith retail trends cycling from digital The pens are categorised into sections For those convinced retail is powering
to physical – think vinyl and books – of sharp colour which contrast beautifully towards a new pure-digital era, this store
Pen Store is clearly marketing itself with the store’s black fixtures. While is proof that shoppers still love a good
towards young shoppers seeking to careless shoppers may put pens back old-fashioned product
ditch their mobiles in favour of more in the wrong displays, vigilant store staff
traditional note-taking. keep the presentation well maintained,
with various pen brands also segmented
The atmosphere
for clear differentiation. Each and every is buzzing and
The store is small but perfectly formed. store member is a genuine pen enthusiast vibrant, oozing
Based in the heart of Hornsgatan, the – they truly love the product and are very
up-and-coming trendy neighbourhood passionate about it.
with hipster
of Stockholm, it is frequented by young quirkiness.
millennials. And it knows how to play to
its audience, with parties and local music Try-before-you-buy is encouraged – a
events promoted and publicised in store. simple tactic, but one which really adds
The atmosphere is buzzing and vibrant, a fun, interactive element to the shopper
oozing with hipster quirkiness. experience.
24LAS VEGAS
3 6 ° 07 ’ 0 3 .7 ” N
115°10 ’2 0 . 6 ” W
Las Vegas living is loud and
proud, but Honolulu Cookie
company avoids the tourist trap,
instead epitomising taste and
style with a Vegas twist.
Honolulu
25
Cookie
CompanyHonolulu
Cookie
Company
Good cookies are one thing. But beautifully presented
biscuits with an exotic brand and back story are Pay a visit
something completely different, as the Honolulu
Cookie Company demonstrates perfectly.
D
LV
SB
LAS VEGAS FWY
GA
VE
AS
SL
SPRING MOUN
TAIN ROAD
Good Stores Guide Rating
E
RIV
Brand Experience RDJ
IS
26 SANDS AVE
AV
Innovation
YD
MM
VM/Presentation
SA
Retail Execution
S KOVAL
Customer Service27
Think Las Vegas and think big, bold and Being based in Las Vegas, the store is
lively. And the Honolulu Cookie Company inevitably aimed towards tourists and
pays homage to its famous location, holidaymakers looking to buy gifts or to
adding some Vegas character with red find an interesting and boutique snack.
gambling dice stacked around the store. And its location is perfect to draw in
such an
But this store is much more
audience.
than a place to buy a gift It’s an immersive The brand
for family back home. Its
detailed retail execution and
experience is aimed at
pinpoint focus across its simply being Generation
X rather
product offering helps it to there. than a
stand out from the potential
younger generation, perhaps in order
pitfall of being seen as ‘tacky tourist
to capitalise in on their available spare
tat’. Instead it is definitively a successful
change and their willingness to spend.
confectionery brand that offers more than
biscuits, bringing to life an experience, a
story, a culture.
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionProducts are often presented in beautifully
iconic boxes and tins adorned with the
company’s recognisable pineapple logo
and patterns. The engaging product
displays and moreish, perfectly presented
cookies make this much more than just a
place to buy biscuits – it’s an immersive
experience simply being there. And the
Vegas dice, far from distracting from
core branding, add their own distinctive
touch, a nod to the iconic location. It’s
the perfect example of tailoring a store to
its location without muddying its familiar
branding.
The Honolulu Cookie Company was
born in Hawaii and is soon to celebrate
its 20th anniversary. The company is
adept at offering insights and history into
the brand, which can now be found in
17 standalone stores and many more
concessions throughout the US and
28 the Pacific. Clever use of its story and
heritage invites shoppers to embrace the
brand and to feel connected to its humble
origins and valuesSTOCKHOLM
5 9 ° 2 0 ’15 . 8 ” N
18 ° 0 4’51. 6 ” E
Biking is big in Stockholm. On a mission
to bring simplicity back into cycling,
BIKEID delivers sophisticated products
with Scandinavian flair and style.
29
BIKEID30
BIKEID
TAN
KO
MM
EGA
END
…R
SG
YLL
ATA
N SIB
With its beautiful bikes and innovative Pay a visit
accessories, BIKEID is hipster heaven
for lovers of all things two-wheeled.
TAN
GA
RO
NYB
Good Stores Guide Rating
N
LIN
ATA
NEG
ATA
UG
N
GFR
Brand Experience
A
JUN
UG
Innovation
GFR
JUN
VM/Presentation LIN
NEG
ATA
N
Retail Execution
Customer Service
TAN
GA
E
YLL
SIB
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition31
BIKEID’s initial mission was to create the The store environment is one of a is lined with bikes on its walls – some
purest bicycle ride ever: no mess, no premium-feel concept store, selling bikes displayed vertically – while the workshop
fuss, no complication and no extravagant which can be customised. Shoppers at the back highlights the practical,
details. choose from four main frames which hands-on nature of the business. In true
can then be altered to their needs or Scandinavian style, staff are uber-friendly
requirements. The intuitive
And this aspiration of sophisticated layout and clear segmentation
simplicity is reflected in its Stockholm make it obvious what the store Those who mistake
store. Here, those who mistake simplicity offers, and it was also easy simplicity for basic are
for basic are proven wholly wrong. These to discern which parts of the
products are the perfect blend of classic bike could be changed or
proven wholly wrong.
and contemporary, combining the elegant customised. In short, it’s a true
design of the iconic bicycle with innovative hipster bike rider’s heaven. and laid back – cycling enthusiasts there
components and materials that make the to share their knowledge if you need
brand shine. them, but never pushy. While the brand
In the best Scandinavian tradition, this is primarily about creating beautiful bikes,
small shop is a design gem, both for its there are a few related accessories and
super-stylish architecture and its chic clothing on offer, too. A classy shop
cycles. The small, box-shaped interior selling classic products
32LONDON
51° 3 0 ’5 3 . 2 ” N
0 ° 0 8 ’31. 3 ” W
Boasting big flagship stores, independent
boutiques and famously cool markets,
London is a heady experience for shoppers.
Absorbing the city into its brand, ASICS
is a powerhouse, serious about sport and
bringing a dynamic experience to shoppers.
33
ASICSASICS
REGE
NT S T
Taking sportswear to some serious Pay a visit A40
new heights, ASICS latest retail concept A40
radiates energy and strength, and more
than its fair share of digital innovation. RD ST
OXFO
AR
G
SW A
YLL
REGE
ST
LLO
NT S T
Good Stores Guide Rating
WP
L
Brand Experience T
C E SS
PRIN
AR
Innovation
GY
LL
VM/Presentation
ST
Retail Execution
RE
GE
VER
NT
N O
Customer Service HA
ARE
ST
SQU ST
O V ER
HA N
3435
ASICS wants to make something very The powerful messaging continues inside This store bears all the hallmarks of
clear: it is a performance brand, not a faux the store, too, with technology at the a flagship. In this prime retail space,
sportswear fashion brand. Its windows forefront and no expense spared. Neon impactful displays and clever use of space
reflect the London link with athletics, strip lighting in changing shades moves are as important as the product.
with a London skyline alongside action in different directions, creating a wave
shots of runners. Its message is strong: effect at the front
innovation is all. of the store.
Large factory-
Technology is at the forefront,
esque mechanical with no expense spared.
features have
been encapsulated behind glass and Steps up to the mezzanine floor display
made part of the shop fit. minimally styled mannequins, and focal
displays are prominent on all floors. A
separate entrance has been styled for
The unique robot delivery system has ASICS Tiger, the quirkier branch of ASICS
been designed to wow the customer and that celebrates its Japanese heritage. This
leave a lasting impression at the point of section promotes the GEL-Lyte shoes in
purchase. Full wall digital screens stream a much more street-style way, featuring
constantly changing ASICS imagery and a juice bar and DJ booth alongside the
customer-facing touchscreens promote customisable footwear.
interaction.
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionDownstairs, technology hits new heights But aside from these show-stopping
with the Motion ID section, a personalised elements, this simply feels like a really
service that selects the best shoe possible great store to spend time and money in.
for your needs. Products are easily segmented and easy
to find, with abundant POS clearly and
effectively offering advice on trainers and
As a contrast to this digital, tech-savvy or apparel.
streetwise aesthetic, this particular ASICS
store adds another very different element
to its brand story – environmentalism. Even first-time sportswear shoppers will
A theme not commonly associated with find ASICS revelatory, a beacon in the
performance sportswear, it is nonetheless midst of the pile-it-high fashion sports
dotted all around the store. Hangers are retailers
made from grass and recycled material,
low-energy lighting is throughout and air-
purifying plants form part of a creative
mannequin installation. It’s all a clear
reference to how ASICS takes its ethical
and environmental responsibilities very
seriously.
36EDINBURGH
5 5°5 8 ’3 6 .7 ” N
3 °10 ’13 . 6 ” W
A busy Edinburgh port, Leith has
undergone a dramatic redevelopment in
recent decades, now housing big retailers
and quirky independents alike. Cool and
cutting edge, Kestin Hare is the epitome of
laid-back chic with a hipster edge.
37
Kestin
Hare38
Kestin Hare
Carefully researched fabrics, clever Pay a visit
detailing and great fitting clothes make
Kestin Hare the smart choice for men.
SAN
D PO
RT
COM
MER
L
Good Stores Guide Rating CIAL
KP
ST
DOC
COM
Brand Experience MER
CIA
L ST
Innovation T
S
RT
P O
S
VM/Presentation N D
A BE
S RN
AR
DS
Retail Execution T
Customer Service
SA
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition
ND
SP
OR
TP
LWithin the walls of Kestin Hare lies a bright yellow paint. The downstairs fitting With plenty of space to showcase its
shopping experience with the stylish, room is the hull of a boat on end, the premium products, the store offers a
relaxed man in mind. Effortlessly casual wall fixtures suspended oars. In a move relaxing, uplifting experience. On the
and positively brimming with hipster chic, which seals its hipster credentials, the second floor, eagle-eyed shoppers will
it’s a cool place to shop for the fashion- store even boasts a barber’s chair for notice a door leading through to the
conscious male, with enough laid-back weekend beard grooming and haircuts. design studio, signalling that they are not
vibes to prevent it becoming intimidating.
Simplicity is key. Two
Simplicity is key.
Situated on the water in Leith, Edinburgh, Two mannequins
mannequins simply
this boat-themed store has an industrial, simply showcase showcase a top and shirt –
warehouse feel with nods to the water and a top and shirt nothing is showy or flashy.
hipster living. Surprises, contradictions – nothing is
and playful touches are everywhere. showy or flashy here. Staff are friendly just buying a product that’s sold there,
The concrete walls and floors pop with and courteous, their own uber-edgy but one which is designed right on the
style a sales tool in itself as they make premises
recommendations to shoppers.
3940
TORONTO
4 3 ° 3 8 ’4 8 . 4” N
7 9 ° 2 4’2 6 . 8 ” W
Embracing the finest retail traditions from
across the globe, Toronto offers shoppers
an eclectic choice. With a love of detail and
a highly desirable product range, Reigning
Champ is the beacon for the young, urban
shopper.
41
Reigning
ChampReigning
Champ
BE ST
HOE
P
Pay a visit
Effortlessly blending sportswear and
casual chic, Reigning Champ is a great
ambassador for the ‘athleisure’ market. ER ST
B ULW
EE TW
EN STR
QUE
SPA
Good Stores Guide Rating DIN
ET W
A AV
RE
EN ST D ST W
Brand Experience QUE M O N
RICH
E
Innovation
VM/Presentation
PET
Retail Execution
ER S
ST W
M OND
Customer Service RICH
T
4243
Respect the details. Master simplicity. It’s little wonder this sector is booming.
These are the principles which guide One of the key selling points of these
Reigning Champ’s process of designing products is the ‘easy care’ characteristics.
and manufacturing premium athletic wear. No crease, no iron, no dry cleaning,
dress them up, dress them down, wear
all day and just give them a quick wash
And it’s evident that the brand lives its and tumble dry. For young people living
own rules. Its store in trendy Queen in small apartments with limited laundry
Street West – where the indie shopping facilities and lifestyles focused on gyms,
experience is the best in Toronto – is a bars and recreation, it’s clear to see the
smart, neat and well-designed concept. appeal.
With a minimalist, distinctive design and
high-quality finish, it’s a shining example
of the rapidly growing athleisure market,
where the lines are increasingly blurred
between pure sport and casual clothing.
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionInstore, key features include fully tiled
walls and ceilings using square, gloss-
white tiles, with everywhere brightly lit for
a shadowless effect. A large,
central pigeon-hole table is
the main fixture. Made from
The level of detail across the
blonde wood, its beautifully whole store is highly impressive,
slick detailing and craftsman with meticulous focus throughout
quality embodies the artisan
ethos of the brand. This continuous slab-
like monolith table by default provides a
circular layout around the store.
Wall hanging rails on the perimeter
provide additional merchandising space,
but the table is the main event. Products
are neatly shown flat on the table-top
level, carefully grouped for a discreet
narrative, with sized stock easily accessed
44 in the adjacent pigeon holes. Everything
is folded with super precision, highlighting
product details and logos.
As per its mission, this store is almost
slavishly devoted to details. The level of
precision across the whole store is highly
impressive, with meticulous focus found
throughout. But while it is clearly striving
to keep standards high, this is not at the
expense of atmosphere – no unfriendly
or overly exclusive vibe is to be found
here. In fact, the service is all you could
hope for, with personable, warm and
engaging staff. All of the sales team are
highly enthusiastic, chatting easily with
shoppers, sharing details about the brand,
the original Vancouver store and product
ranges. And the mainly urban, sporting
male shoppers seemed to revel in the
attention and interaction
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionSAN FRANCISCO
37 °47 ’14 .7 ” N
12 2 ° 2 6’ 01.7 ” W
Diverse, edgy and inspirational, San Francisco
brings a fresh approach to retail. Offering solid
green credentials and a flawless commitment to
customer service, Saje is the perfect blend of
45 natural products in a contemporary setting.
Saje46
Saje
RNI AST
CALIFO
FILLMO
Plant power at its most potent... health Pay a visit
and beauty retailer Saje lives and breathes
STEINE
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its own green philosophy, to perfection. PINE ST
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PINE S
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WILMO
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Innovation BUSH S
FILLMO
VM/Presentation
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Retail Execution
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Customer Service
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SUTTER
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition47
Founded almost three decades ago, Saje’s As you enter, the store feels warm and by oak shelves and cabinets, with LED
premise was to introduce people to the inviting with a sophisticated, contemporary lighting showing brightly lit products.
power of 100% natural, plant-derived ambience. The brand appearance is not raw
wellness products. This, combined with a eco carrier, chemist, apothecary or day spa,
vision to offer excellent customer service but a clever blend of each, with an overall In every store, the cash desk area is singled
which enriched the retail experience, has domestic wellness vibe. out for personalisation. Here, wooden
stood the brand in good stead. marquetry is used in contemporary form
to great effect. The mid-floor area features
White American Oak, powdery sage green soft seating and floor tables, while product
Its new store in San Francisco is based and soft, natural domestic colours create collections are cascaded into different zones.
in the iconic Pacific Heights, a popular a gentle effect, while simple metal frames
residential boutique shopping street filled and glass shelving unobtrusively present the
with unique shops, outdoor cafés and airy product ranges. The clean look is completed The store’s central feature is a spectacular
restaurants. green living wall, connecting the brand
ethos and product story directly with the
environment. Below these, steam diffusers
gently waft discreet hints of the company’s
signature essential oils.
Creative, innovative and stylish visual
merchandising is used for brand storytelling.
48 Meanwhile, clear segmentation between key
categories, neat arrangement of products in
pack sizes and discreet price, features and
benefits ticketing combine to offer highly
competent product presentation.
Keeping faithful to its original values,
customer service here is a high priority,
with proactive sales assistants engaging
shoppers, providing samples and
encouraging ‘try before you buy’. Indeed
the ethos and values very much echo the
early days of The Body Shop, with the
same commitments to CSR, sustainability,
people and service. It’s a sensory experience
from the minute you enter, highly textual
with attractive visual merchandising, expert
presentation and the subtle scent of the
signature aromas.
It’s a solid brand which looks ripe for
international expansion and franchising...
watch this space
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionDUBAI
2 5°13 ’3 2 .1” N
5 5° 21’13 .7 ” E
Packed with huge malls and department
stores, Dubai is big shopping and booming
retail. Set in the Dubai Mall, the smart,
sharp and sophisticated Mint Velvet is the
latest word in effortless chic.
49
Mint
VelvetMint
Velvet RE
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A deceptively simple store with delightfully IV
AL
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executed merchandising... Mint Velvet is a C
RE VD
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true find for the perfectionist shopper. EN
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Good Stores Guide Rating CITY MALL
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Brand Experience
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Innovation
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VM/Presentation
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Retail Execution
Customer Service
5051
The latest opening for Mint Velvet saw Throughout, the interior is chic, using a Simple yet effective product presentation
the execution of the brand’s latest store smart grey tone to provide the basis for is comprised mainly of side-hanging
design concept, based in Dubai Mall – the brand feel. Warm English Oak and apparel collections with adjacent
one of the largest shopping malls in the furniture softens the look, while dramatic products folded or grouped. With no
UAE. feature lighting at the front of the store mannequins or other device to present
emphasizes the focal display. outfit combinations, the store boldly
relies on clear product arrangements
Now under the ownership of River Island, and segmentation, along with large-scale
Mint Velvet has created a store with a The customer journey is fluid and photography.
smart, sophisticated look, evocative of effortless, helped by the informal
concepts from J.Crew and Madewell arrangement in the mid-
in the USA, along with a host of hipster floor layout. With a simple The customer journey
millennial European and UK retailers. burnished steel frame and
grey and white veined
is fluid and effortless.
marble tops, accompanying
trays, plinths and objects are used as
merchandising aids. The store also makes This store embodies highly competent
good use of grey velvet padded stools, execution, representing a smart new step
used to present related products. for the brand
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition52
& Other Stores Here’s a directory of other notable stores to have caught our eye during our retail city travels. Although they may not have made our featured shortlist, they are definitely worth a visit, if you are ever in town.
Helsinki San Francisco
Artek Rapha
Founded in 1935 by four young idealists, & Other The epitome of global enterprise, Rapha
Stores
today Artek has respected their radical has extended its vast online emporium
mission of ‘promoting modern culture of into the physical world, with retail locations
living by exhibition and other educational showcasing its range of high-end
means’. Innovative and quirky, its performance roadwear and accessories.
artisan collection of furniture, lighting The San Francisco store is just a short spin
and accessories is designed by Finnish from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, kitting
masters and international designers. The riders out in the finest bike wear as well as
products are a masterclass in simplicity, supplying delicious coffees and pastries to
symmetry and superior standards. begin the cycling adventure.
Toronto
Cumbrae’s
Bringing the country firmly to the city,
Cumbrae’s is more than a butcher’s shop
in a city centre. Its concept is unique:
connecting traditional farmers and giving
them the freedom to farm without the
pressures and quotas of the factory
farming industry. The store stocks dry-
aged steaks, rotisserie chicken and
54
smoked brisket, amongst many other
mouth-watering products, all made with
meat from their network of farmers and
Las Vegas expertly prepared in-house. Las Palmas
Christian Louboutin Worten
The instantly recognisable Louboutin A Spanish version of the UK’s Currys PC
shoes are renowned for their distinctive World, this store uses simple presentation
red soles. Now encompassing men’s and design to appeal to digital novices
shoes, accessories and beauty, and tech-savvy shoppers alike. With
Christian Louboutin’s brand has clean, sharp product displays, black and
blazed into Las Vegas in style, adding white fixtures and carefully balanced
its beautiful, elegant and high-end lighting, the instore experience is one of
boutiques to the city’s shopping portfolio. friendly exploration and interaction.
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 EditionToronto Dubai
Woolrich DKNY
With a focus on heritage and bringing Donna Karan’s unique New York brand
a story to every product, Woolrich has DKNY brings its energy, vitality and
created a style that lingers long beyond attitude direct to Dubai, with shoppers
the realms of fashion. Instore, service browsing the range of easy-wear, sassy,
is discreet and considered while the elegant and contemporary womenswear.
brand has chosen a warmer and more Classic menswear and funky accessories
welcoming path, than that of Moncler complement the brand, bringing its unique
or Canada Goose, creating a retail edge and style to the global market.
experience that is both premium and
personable.
Edinburgh
Walker & Slater
Timelessly traditional with a contemporary
twist, Walker Slater is tailoring at its
finest. With slick attention to detail in its
visual merchandising, here is meticulous
precision in presentation, nothing out of
place, everything perfectly placed. This
55 is the epitome of shopping for the finer
gentlemen, with personal service and
wonderfully executed branding.
San Francisco London
China Live Nasty Gal
Bringing Chinese gastronomy to the Transforming the trend for vintage seconds
cultural masses, China Live’s mission into a concept model, Nasty Gal has
is to demystify Chinese ingredients and moved on from the traditional-style buying
recipes. Visitors are treated to a cultural and selling of old clothes, branching out
education on the rich history and influence into its own-label brands. The store retains
of the dishes, choosing from marketplace a truly vintage aesthetic, with shoppers
dining, an intricate tasting menu and a getting the classic experience while buying
counter-service café. new clothes.
#goodstoresguide Good Stores Guide / 2018 Edition2018 Edition
Good Stores Guide
The Visual Thinking Good Stores Guide presents an inspiring,
informative and tightly edited selection of star retail finds
from some of the world’s most fascinating cities. Compiled
by our team of experts during their global retail travels to
help leading retailers improve retail performance, our annual
Good Stores Guide acts as a passport to the wonders of
international retail best practice, ready to be explored.
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