Retail Focus Issue 133 Digital by Retail Focus

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HELLO...

Hello and welcome to the latest issue of Retail Focus. Firstly, I’d like to wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year! Here’s hoping for a positive, and perhaps a little more settled, 12 months.

With the silly season that is Christmas now behind us for another few months or so, those in the retail sector can switch their attention to other areas and focus on new and innovative projects to drive growth, and indeed success, throughout 2025 and beyond.

As ever, Retail Focus will be with you every step of the way, highlighting some of the stand-out examples of retailers stretching the boundaries to help capture both the attention and custom of consumers, as well as offering advice and guidance on how to improve your own business.

Kick-starting the New Year, this issue has all this and so much more, including a closer look at British shoemaker Joseph Cheaney linking up with London-based design agency Checkland Kindleysides to create a gallery-esque retail boutique on the famous New Bond Street.

We also speak with British clothing and lifestyle brand Studio Nicholson about the opening of its second London store in Shoreditech, where, incidentally, the brand originated. On top of this is a look at how Danish design studio Space Copenhagen completed the interiors for Aiayu’s latest showroom, marking the fourth collaboration between the pair.

Also this issue is a showcase of Norwegian family-owned watchmaker Urmaker Bjerke’s new luxury watch house, the largest of its kind in Europe, within the famous Promenaden, Oslo’s Fashion District.

If this isn’t enough, you can also enjoy special features on Mark Ingram Atelier, a name that is synonymous in the luxury and fashion scene in London, and retail light specialist Shoplight’s latest link-up, this time with London-based cult jewellery brand Astrid & Miyu.

On top of all this are two insightful pieces that may offer more food for thought for those seeking new ideas. First is an analysis of the benefits of using sustainable floorings in retail environments, while the second feature considers what we might expect from retail in 2025, with input from some of the leading names in the industry.

With all this plus a review of the recent MAPIC event in Paris, an interview with Greig Robinson, founder of sustainable and health-conscious furniture brand Slow, and plenty more, we really are starting 2025 with a bang.

Enjoy!

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Retail Focus is published by LTC Digital Ltd

No part of Retail Focus may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without permission. Please address all enquiries to the editor at the above address. The opinions expressed in Retail Focus are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information contained in these pages. We will assume permission to publish any unsolicited material unless otherwise stated. LTC digital Ltd

CONTENT DIRECTOR

Lee Cullumbine 07949 781817

SURFACE DESIGN SHOW

BDC LONDON | 4 - 6 FEBRUARY 2025

Surface Design Show is an event dedicated to surface material innovation. It is the event of choice for architects and designers to see, source and specify the latest and most inspiring internal and external surface materials from over 180 exhibitors. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Business Design Centre, for Surface Design Show 2025, 4 - 6 February 2025!

www.surfacedesignshow.com

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS EUROPE

FIRA GRAN VIA, BARCELONA | 4 - 7

FEBRUARY 2025

Integrated Systems Europe is the world’s leading audiovisual and systems integration exhibition, showcasing technology innovators and solutions providers from around the world, and featuring inspiring conferences, events and experiences.

The annual four-day event, which takes place every February, is organised and run by Integrated Systems Events.

www.iseurope.org

CHRISTMASWORLD

FRANKFURT AM MAIN | 7 - 11

FEBRUARY 2025

As the leading international trade fair for seasonal decorations and festive decorations, Christmasworld opens up effective design possibilities to surprise customers. For new synergies that offer added value.

www.christmasworld. messefrankfurt.com

SIGN & DIGITAL UK

NEC, BIRMINGHAM | 23 - 25 FEBRUARY 2025

Running for over 35 years, SDUK is a central part of the industry calendar and recognised as a launch pad for new products and an economic stimulus for the industry. At Sign & Digital UK 2025 visitors will be able to make the most of the educational and lively feature areas on offer. SDUK and P&P LIVE! return to the NEC, Birmingham from Sunday, February 23 to Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

www.signuk.com

VM & DISPLAY AWARDS

LONDON | 12 MARCH 2025

The only event dedicated to celebrating excellence and innovation in the retail visual merchandising and display sector, the VM & Display Awards have been successfully running for 30 years, and as a standalone event in its current format for 19 years. Held annually in an iconic, Central London location, the Awards bring together the UK’s most influential creatives, retailers and suppliers in celebration of their considerable achievements for projects installed.

www.vmanddisplayawards.com

VM & DISPLAY SHOW

BDC LONDON | 9 & 10 APRIL 2025

The VM & Display Show is the place for all your visual merchandising and display needs. Visitors can meet with an array of industry experts who can help make displays a reality, from concept to installation. Taking place at the Business Design Centre in London, the VM & Display Show is the only UK exhibition dedicated to this creative industry, bringing together everything from mannequins, print and props to POP, lighting and fabrics - and every in-between - under one roof across two days.

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A FOOT IN THE DOOR: THE O2 WELCOMES TRIO OF OPENINGS, WITH RETURNING FAVOURITE CLARKS

Outlet Shopping at The O2, which is owned and operated by AEG Europe and Crosstree Real Estate, has announced a trio of retail additions to its lineup, including returning favourite, Clarks, British footwear brand, Soletrader, and a London outlet debut for contemporary bedding brand, Bedeck.

Clarks has returned to Outlet Shopping at The O2 after 3 years, opening a 3,259 sq ft store adjacent to Skechers and Lids on the outlet’s upper level. The new space stocks a broad range of casual and formal footwear and accessories, including Clarks’ Originals line and kids range, along with its personal shopping and fitting service. Clarks’ return to The O2 underlines the significant role that the outlet plays within central London’s repertoire of retail, leisure, and entertainment destinations, and also demonstrates the team’s active and dynamic approach to securing brands which visitors know and love.

LOXTON WALK, A NEW RETAIL AND LEISURE DESTINATION IN LONDON’S WEST END

The Portman Estate and Derwent London to deliver 28,500 sq ft retail and leisure space in Marylebone

The Portman Estate and Derwent London have unveiled plans for the launch of Loxton Walk, the West End’s latest retail and leisure destination in the heart of Marylebone. With public space, sustainable design and a new retail offering, Loxton Walk will be an entirely new and carefully curated street for the area.

Launching in 2025, Loxton Walk will deliver 28,500 sq ft of new retail and leisure space across 17 ground floor units, accessible via four new avenues from George Street, Blandford Street, Gloucester Place and Baker Street. The project will comprise a central open-air courtyard designed to create a lively, vibrant new destination for residents, workers and visitors to Marylebone.

YOUTUBE SENSATIONS, THE SIDEMEN, SELECT HAMMERSON’S BULLRING FOR SECOND-EVER SDMN CLOTHING STORE

Hammerson is pleased to announce that YouTube sensation, The Sidemen, have selected Bullring & Grand Central for their first ever SDMN Clothing store in the Midlands and second-ever physical store. Opening on Friday 4th October, the new store underpins a wider strategy by Hammerson to diversify its occupier mix by introducing young and exciting concepts which complement the strength of the international brands on offer.

The Sidemen are among the most high-profile internet personalities in Europe, having accrued over 21.6 million subscribers and 6.4 billion video views. The launch of SDMN Clothing follows the group’s ever-growing online presence and connection with its worldwide audience. The 4,500 sq ft store will house the brand’s popular unisex streetwear and merchandise products, as well as a brand-new SDMN x Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles collaboration range.

EVOLVE ESTATES SIGNS TWO NEW TENANTS AT PENICUIK CENTRE

Evolve Estates, part of commercial property and investment collective M Core, has signed two new tenants at the Penicuik Centre in Scotland.

Popular sushi restaurant, Yokohama Sushi, has agreed a 10-year lease on a 824 sq ft unit at the scheme, joining other food and beverage tenants such as Greggs and Domino’s.

Maj Gifts Ornaments will also be opening a location at the scheme later this year in a 1,940 sq ft unit on a oneyear lease.

These new brands join existing tenants such as Farmfoods and centre anchor, B&M, at the scheme, which is positioned in the heart of the commuter town, just 10 miles south of Edinburgh.

BEAUTY HOTSPOT: PURESEOUL MAKES MIDLANDS DEBUT AT BULLRING, AS HEALTH AND BEAUTY SALES JUMP 26 PER CENT

Health and beauty transactions at Bullring & Grand Central have jumped 26 per cent year-on-year, as Hammerson continues to strengthen its Birmingham city centre destination with best-in-class beauty and wellbeing brands including regional first, PURESEOUL which opened Friday 11th Oct.

In July alone sales in the category grew by 69 percent vs 2023, making it the best-performing category at the destination, as brands including Rituals, Jo Malone and L’Occitane invested in new cosmetic lines and customers prioritised self-care products.

UNDER ARMOUR OPENS LARGEST SCOTTISH OUTLET AT CALEDONIA PARK

Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension scheme, has announced that Under Armour, the leading global sports apparel brand, has opened its biggest outlet store in Scotland at Caledonia Park.

Under Armour has opened a 3,465 sq ft store at the premium designer outlet village, complementing its high-quality sportswear category alongside anchor brands, Nike and adidas. The store showcases Under Armour’s comprehensive range of performance-driven sportswear apparel in its Factory House retail concept, as well as accessories and footwear.

The leading sportswear brand joins an impressive roster of retailers at Caledonia Park such as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Hobbs, Rituals, and Phase Eight, as well as the recent arrivals of Moss and Swarovski, both marking their Scottish outlet debuts at the centre.

QUIZ OPENS NEW STORE IN DERBY

QUIZ, the omni-channel fashion brand, has opened its newly designed and relocated store in South Mall, Derby.

Although just four units away from QUIZ’s former shop in the shopping centre, the larger space, approximately 1,900 sq ft of sales floor, offers a more spacious and premium shopping experience for customers.

The store has been decorated in line with QUIZ’s recently revamped and modernised shop design, including an open ceiling with a central raft and led spotlights throughout the store, as well as a full height glass shopfront and digital window screens to display QUIZ latest ranges, with touches of gold features throughout the shop.

The new shop employs 10 members of staff, all of whom have been relocated from QUIZ’s former store in the centre.

The new shop in Derby means QUIZ now has 12 shops in the region and 65 standalone stores in total across the UK and Ireland.

MERRY HILL WELCOMES HARVEY NORMAN’S

57,000 SQ FT ENGLISH DEBUT

Merry Hill has welcomed lifestyle, technology, and home appliance retailer, Harvey Norman, which has opened its 57,000 sq ft flagship store. The new space is the retail giant’s first location in England.

Internationally known as a home for big brands, Harvey Norman’s new store offers its extensive range of products designed to enhance the home. This includes a selection of luxury furniture, including sofas, dining sets, bedroom suites and mattresses, as well as an assortment of smaller items including kitchenware. Also on offer are a variety of home appliances, technology, and entertainment from household-name brands such as Dyson, Shark, Apple, Samsung, LG, Miele, Sage, and many more. The store features dedicated areas for each product category, including a cooking appliance centre that has been specifically designed for Merry Hill, and a range of in-store services including click & collect and Love Tech, for all technology set-up needs.

MINT VELVET OPENS KEY REGIONAL STORE AT CENTRE:MK

Mint Velvet, the British womenswear brand, renowned for its relaxed yet glamorous style has opened its new Boutique, and debut Milton Keynes location, within centre:mk’s premium Silbury Arcade, one of the top 10 retail destinations in the UK.

Spanning 2,100 sq ft, the store offers Mint Velvet’s latest collection of womenswear footwear, and accessories. Designed by Londonbased StudioJill, the interior reflects the brand's distinct Relaxed Glamour identity. The store is positioned as one of Mint Velvet’s key locations, further solidifying centre:mk’s reputation for premium retail.

This city debut builds on the centre’s first-class womenswear selection, joining premium brands such as Reiss, Jigsaw, Phase Eight, and The White Company, alongside leading names in fashion, Mango and H&M.

SEPHORA LIVERPOOL WILL OPEN ITS DOORS NEXT SPRING 2025

After a hugely successful launch in the North-East, with the opening of stores in Newcastle’s Eldon square and Gateshead Metrocentre, Sephora UK is continuing to fuel their northern expansion with the announcement of its next store opening at Grosvenor’s leading city-centre retail and entertainment destination, Liverpool ONE.

The new store location at Liverpool ONE is slated to open in Spring 2025 and will be the 8th store in Sephora UK’s growing physical retail portfolio, which includes stores in Westfield London, Westfield Stratford City, Manchester’s Trafford Centre, Newcastle’s Eldon Square and Gateshead Metrocentre. In Winter 2024, Sephora UK will be opening locations at Birmingham Bullring and Bluewater in Kent.

Beauty obsessed customers will have access to an incredible selection of exciting exclusive beauty brands from across the pond, including the likes of Makeup by Mario, GXVE by Gwen Stefani, Haus Labs by Lady Gaga and TikTok’s latest viral brand Topicals.

MODERN FASHION HOUSE, REISS, OPENS DEBUT SOUTH-WEST STORE AT GLOUCESTER QUAYS

Peel Retail & Leisure has announced that attainable-luxury fashion brand, Reiss, has opened a store at Gloucester Quays. As its first-ever store in the city, and only outlet in the South-West, the popular retailer joins the top 10 UK outlet’s extensive roster of leading fashion brands.

Reiss’s Gloucester Quays store has opened opposite The North Face and next to Skechers, occupying 1,800 sq ft. The debut shop features the brand’s timeless collections of men’s, women’s and children’s ready-to-wear clothing, including formalwear, knitwear, and suits and tailoring. Designed for effortless style and tailored for modern living, the store delivers on Reiss’s commitment to bring enduring and versatile wardrobes to as many people as possible.

The leading fashion house opens alongside Gloucester Quays’ diverse line-up of big-name brands, including national favourite, M&S, luxury fashion retailer, Hobbs, occasionwear specialist, Phase Eight, and British clothing and homeware store, Next.

NEWMARK RETAIL ADVISES OPTICAL CENTER ON ITS ENTRY INTO THE UK MARKET WITH 10 LONDON STORES

Newmark Retail UK & EMEA has advised French Optician and audiologist Optical Center in entering the UK market, securing its first 10 stores in London.

The most recent store opening in the capital is located at 42 Braccan Walk, Bracknell and spans over 2,000 sq ft, featuring inhouse opticians, optometrists and audiologists as well as high-end brands of eyewear to choose from such as Ray-Ban, Oakley and Gucci.

Alongside the store in Bracknell, the other new locations it has acquired in London and the surrounding area includes Tottenham Court Road, Greenwich, Colliers Wood, High Wycombe, Milton Keynes, Borehamwood, Staines, Harlow and Richmond – all of which were facilitated by Newmark.

STRATHBERRY REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SHAFTESBURY CAPITAL’S COVENT GARDEN WITH UPSIZE AND RELOCATION

The Metrocentre Partnership has announced the submission of Shaftesbury Capital has announced that Strathberry, the Edinburgh-based and internationally recognised brand specialising in luxury leather goods, has relocated its store within Covent Garden’s historic Market Building, reinforcing the destination’s enduring appeal as a hub for UK-founded luxury brands.

Capitalising on the success of its debut store, Strathberry has doubled the size of its Covent Garden Market Building boutique.

The upsized unit, measuring c.1,200 sq ft, will enable the brand to expand its offering of exclusive products, signature bags meticulously handcrafted in Spain, and a curated range of luxury accessories, all of which can be personalised with on-site embossing services by the skilled team. Strathberry is currently stocked in over 90 doors globally and operates three standalone stores, of which Covent Garden is the largest. The newly upsized space features Strathberry’s signature light and understated interior, incorporating natural materials such as teak and brass fittings. It will also include custom-made furniture handcrafted in Edinburgh. Strathberry has also opened a new office alongside its upsized store, solidifying the brand's expanded presence in the city and signalling Covent Garden's appeal as a destination of choice for both a brand's commercial and operational footprints.

MERRY HILL PENS BOOK DEAL AS WATERSTONES BECOMES 25th BRAND TO INVEST IN THE DESTINATION IN 2024

Merry Hill is celebrating a landmark year for tenant commitments, with 25 deals completed in 2024, representing 110,000 sq ft of space at the top 10 UK retail and leisure destination. Renewals formed over half of these, underscoring Merry Hill’s performance, where leading brands succeed and want to stay long-term.

The 15 brands that have renewed at Merry Hill this year span its diverse line-up, including British book retailer Waterstones, which covers two floors near the flourishing Leisure Quarter. Waterstones have significantly invested in the store, updating its shop-fit and adding a brand-new shopfront. Other retailers that have recommitted to the West Midlands flagship destination recently are jewellery trio, Ernest Jones, H. Samuel, and Pandora, with the latter completing a new store fit earlier this month. These deals take the total number of renewals at Merry Hill to 92 in a little over three years.

GANDYS ANNOUNCES NEW LONDON STORE INSPIRED BY TRAVEL AND PURPOSE-DRIVEN DESIGN

British brand Gandys is proud to announce the opening of its new store at 66 Neal Street in the vibrant area of Covent Garden in London. This exciting new location will showcase the best of their collections, inspired by travel, designed for longevity and crafted to be cherished for a lifetime of adventures.

From sturdy waxed cotton bags and backpacks to weatherproof jackets, layering pieces and leather accessories, each item is made to see the world.

The new store also features a carefully curated selection of thirdparty brands, including Nalgene Water Bottles, Cocoon (microfiber and eco travel towels), Klippan Blankets, Exclusive travel books, Kind Bag, Baggu, Sophos (dry bags), Shepherds of Sweden and Union of London.

WEST HAM UNITED LAUNCH FESTIVE POP-UP AT JOHN LEWIS, WESTFIELD

Christmas came early for some West Ham United supporters earlier today, when the Club opened its retail pop-up shop at John Lewis, Westfield, Stratford.

Shoppers in John Lewis on Tuesday lunchtime were treated to a surprise launch, attended by Club Ambassadors James Collins and Marlon Harewood, alongside Hammers fan Bianca Westwood!

The trio, along with Club mascots Hammerhead and Bubbles, were in town to mark the official opening of the West Ham United retail popup unit at the John Lewis branch in Westfield, Stratford, which will run throughout the festive season, all the way through to December 31st

Ranging from festive decorations, to Christmas jumpers, to replica kits, the pop-up shop – which, located on the street level, is open every day in normal trading hours – has it all. The pop-up unit is just one of the ways that the East London club is celebrating The Gift of Claret & Blue this festive season, making it even easier for Hammers fans to find the perfect gift this Christmas.

EBAY BRINGS THE NATION’S LISTINGS TO LONDON’S BUSIEST HIGH STREET

eBay announced the launch of “Listings in Lights,” an immersive display in the heart of London that promotes private selling and lets people shop pre-loved items across luxury, fashion, home, tech, and toys, from eBay sellers across the UK.

Listings in Lights follows last month’s removal of selling fees for private sellers in the UK, making it free to sell across all categories except for motors. With research showing that more than half (55%) of people want to make a bit of extra cash in time for the festive season, and a massive two in three (66%) stating they have items at home they want to sell**, Listings in Lights makes it easy for people to sell the items they no longer need and fund their Christmas budget. With an estimated 294 million unused items in UK homes, this could unlock £9 billion in resale income, offering a much-needed financial boost.

SALOMON OPENS TWO STORES IN THE HEART OF LONDON

Salomon, the modern mountain sports lifestyle brand, is proud to announce the opening of two new brand stores in the heart of London. Located in the biggest shopping destinations of the English capital, the Covent Garden store, which is part of The Yards, has opened, and the Soho store will open on November 14th.

The Yards, Covent Garden brand store, located at 125 Long Acre, St Martin’s Courtyard, London WC2E 9AA, is the first Salomon flagship store in the United-Kingdom and measures 3,628 sq ft.

This central London location is known for launching premium concepts and being home to sector-leading brands. The store is designed to allow visitors the opportunity to experience the full scope of what Salomon has to offer—from premium footwear, apparel and gear for running and hiking to skis, snowboards and winter apparel. Sneaker fans can find a full wall of Salomon’s increasingly in-demand Sportstyle footwear. The store hosted an opening event on November 1st, inviting influencers, Salomon ambassadors and consumers to discover the world of modern mountain sport with a community run organized with Unsanctioned Athletics, an in-store DJ set and hourly raffles.

HARIBO TO BRING CHILDLIKE HAPPINESS TO BLUEWATER WITH ITS 11th UK RETAIL STORE

• HARIBO increases UK retail presence with new store opening in Dartford’s Bluewater Shopping Centre, the UK’s fifth largest shopping centre

• New store will be HARIBO UK’s first to open outside an outlet and builds on HARIBO’s previous partnership with Bluewater for its ‘Hide N Seekers’ event

Bluewater Shopping Centre is about to become even sweeter as HARIBO UK announces its 11th UK retail store opening. The news comes after the success of last year’s Hide N Seekers event, which saw HARIBO bringing the UK’s largest ball pit, fully stocked with delicious prizes and treats, to the UK’s fifth largest shopping centre.

The new store, which is expected to open early 2025, will allow fans to indulge in moments of fun and happiness all year round. Fans will be able to experience the joy and delight of unleashing your inner child when entering the new store.

THE BOULEVARD SHINES WITH TWO NEW TENANTS IN GOLDEN QUARTER

Two major new brands are setting up shop at Northern Ireland’s premier outlet destination, The Boulevard, following the schemes record breaking sales.

Becoming known for many retail ‘firsts’ in Northern Ireland such as kate spade ny, Adidas, Levi’s and Under Armour, The Boulevard is set to be home for the first Castore store in Northern Ireland and the first Police on the island of Ireland taking 1,054sq ft and 1,136sq ft units respectively.

Castore and Police will be joining an already strong offering of luxury clothing and sportswear brands at The Boulevard, that recorded its best summer ever with a +19% increase in sales and +5% growth in footfall compared to 2023.

The Boulevard, that is located on the A1 corridor between Belfast and Dublin, is managed by Lotus Property and advised on leasing by Johnstone Property Consultants.

TIFFANY & CO JOINS TRAFFORD CENTRE’S LUXURY JEWELLERY LINEUP WITH NEW CONCESSION IN SELFRIDGES

Trafford Centre, the leading retail and leisure destination, is excited to announce that last month Tiffany & Co., the world-renowned jewellery brand, arrived at the centre.

The new concession, located in Selfridges’ Accessories Hall, showcases the brand’s latest design concept, inspired by the renovated Fifth Avenue flagship designed by Peter Marino.

The store carries signature lines such as Lock by Tiffany, HardWear by Tiffany, T by Tiffany and Knot by Tiffany, as well as high jewellery offerings set with diamonds and coloured gemstones. Visitors can immerse themselves in the timeless elegance and craftsmanship for which Tiffany & Co. is celebrated, with personalised shopping experiences that reflect the brand’s rich and storied heritage.

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JOSEPH CHEANEY’S GALLERY-ESQUE

RETAIL BOUTIQUE ON NEW BOND STREET IS A TESTAMENT TO A WIDER CULTURAL SHIFT IN LUXURY

The storied legacy of Joseph Cheaney, a brand synonymous with quality craftsmanship and quintessentially British shoemaking, is entering a new chapter on New Bond Street. Known for its unwavering commitment to innovation and authenticity, Cheaney’s latest boutique represents a strategic move not just in retail location, but in aligning with a broader cultural shift - a renewed appreciation amongst modern consumers for quality, heritage, and an everevolving "buy less, buy better" mindset.

In collaboration with London-based design agency Checkland Kindleysides, Cheaney has debuted a store that blends the character and precision of their award-winning stores in Coal Drops Yard and Jermyn Street with a fresh, high-end concept. Positioned in the heart of New Bond

Street, this luxury boutique offers an elevated interpretation of the brand’s identity. Perfectly capturing and expressing the essence of Cheaney's craft, and displays their footwear with the reverence and curation one might expect in an art gallery.

The Significance of New Bond Street in 2024: An Evolving Luxury Landscape

New Bond Street has long been a destination for luxury shopping, yet 2024 has brought about an exciting transformation. The street now finds itself at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, reflecting broader shifts within the luxury sector. With consumer habits evolving, New Bond Street is witnessing a flurry of new brand launches, seeing a diversification from the primarily jewellery and high fashion-laden stores that have characterized it in recent decades. Instead, stores like Joseph Cheaney’s joins a new suite of brands like Diptyque, Bang&Olufsen and Rimowa – which embrace a vision of luxury defined by authenticity, meticulous craftsmanship, and sustainable values.

The new Cheaney boutique on New Bond Street marks an important milestone, not just for the brand but for the street’s evolution. Joseph Cheaney’s store reflects a shift from status-driven luxury to more accessible and understated refinement, resonating with a generation of shoppers increasingly prioritizing authenticity over novelty. Here, on one of the world’s most prestigious retail avenues, Cheaney is setting a new standard in experiential luxury retail - a standard that speaks to consumers’ growing appreciation for timeless products with true quality and provenance.

A Design Philosophy Rooted in Craftsmanship and Authenticity

Capitalising on these wider cultural shifts, a shoe polishing station takes centre stage in the store - a nod to the artisanal heritage that sets Cheaney apart. Positioned to capture the attention of passersby, it functions as both a practical service point, try-on area and a visual display of craftsmanship; inviting customers to engage with the care and skill that defines Cheaney’s legacy. This addition of a functional, handcrafted element brings the artistry of the factory directly into the retail experience, bridging the gap between the maker and the wearer.

Cheaney’s store concept on New Bond Street also offers an expertly refined marriage of tradition and modernity. The boutique combines the heritage of English shoemaking with a sleek, contemporary interior that feels almost gallery-like. Natural light flows abundantly through the

The Evolution of 'Buy Less, Buy Better'

As the retail industry shifts toward a more discerning, values-driven approach, concepts like Cheaney’s New Bond Street boutique are tapping into the mindset of today’s luxury consumer. Rather than being swayed by fleeting trends or viral novelties, modern consumers are

store’s fully glazed elevations, bouncing off strategically placed mirrors and light boxes to create an atmospheric depth to the space that exudes a sense of timelessness.

“Our goal is to bring the theatre of the factory in-store,” shares William Church, Joint Managing Director of Joseph Cheaney. “…allowing customers to discover our handcrafted footwear in a contemporary space.”

gravitating towards timeless icons. In a world dominated by overconsumption and the immediacy of social media, they seek products that are made to last, embodying a narrative and depth that resonate on a personal level.

The desire for ‘buy less, buy better’ is more than a trend; it’s a response to the oversaturation of newness and throwaway culture that has pervaded consumer goods. Shoppers are now looking for brands that prioritize sustainable approaches, offer transparency, and stand behind their products. Joseph Cheaney embodies this ethos, with each pair of shoes meticulously made to last by those with a legacy and expertise in British shoemaking.

This ethos is also palpable in the design of the New Bond Street store, where the layout and interior elements are carefully curated to encourage exploration and appreciation. Nothing feels rushed or overly commercial. Instead, the boutique invites customers to slow down, take in the surroundings, and appreciate the artistry and attention to detail, in every shoe on display.

Craft Meets Luxury: Key Design Features of the New Boutique

Shoe Polishing Station: Central to the boutique is a shoe polishing station, which invites customers to witness the artistry and care that goes into maintaining high-quality footwear. This station embodies the Cheaney brand experience, offering an elevated level of service and an element of intrigue that brings a sense of theatre to the store.

Luxury Shoe Gallery: The boutique’s gallery-esque displays showcase Cheaney’s footwear in a manner reminiscent of an art gallery. This design choice elevates the boutique’s aesthetic and aligns it with the luxury standards of New Bond Street, while placing the product at the heart of the experience.

A Dramatic Entrance: The boutique’s entrance makes an impression through its use of light and mirrors, setting the tone for an immersive retail journey. The play of light is carefully designed to draw people into the store, creating a dramatic ambiance that feels both inviting and adds a luxurious depth to this small boutique.

High-End Contrasts: The boutique’s design balances luxurious finishes with industrial touches that nod to the craftsmanship at Cheaney’s core. This blend of high-end materials and crafted elements creates a unique aesthetic that reflects the brand’s heritage while speaking to a modern, discerning audience.

A Legacy-Driven Experience for a New Generation

In opening on New Bond Street, Joseph Cheaney joins a wave of heritage brands redefining what it means to be ‘luxury’ today. It’s no longer about exclusivity for the sake of status. Instead, luxury is defined by quality, longevity, and a sense of connection to something real and enduring. For Joseph Cheaney, this connection is rooted in the artistry of shoemaking, the precision of each stitch, and the human stories embedded in each pair of shoes.

This approach speaks directly to the values of today’s conscious consumers, who view quality as a reflection of a brand’s ethos and commitment to sustainability. By

purchasing from brands like Cheaney, they’re investing in pieces that will last a lifetime, and crafted with care and purpose.

Cheaney’s New Bond Street boutique is more than just a store; it’s a manifestation of the brand’s heritage, a space designed to connect customers with the legacy of British shoemaking. It’s a place where consumers can experience firsthand the artistry, craftsmanship, and dedication that go into every shoe, serving as a reminder that true luxury is not about excess but about enduring quality and attention to detail.

The Future of Luxury Retail: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

As New Bond Street continues to evolve, stores like Joseph Cheaney’s will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of luxury retail. This isn’t merely about buying shoes; it’s about joining a movement toward a more intentional, values-driven approach to consumption. Cheaney’s boutique exemplifies how heritage brands can remain relevant by honouring their traditions while embracing new design elements that cater to today’s consumer mindset.

In an era where trends come and go with the swipe of a screen, Checkland Kindleysides design for Cheaney’s New Bond Street store stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of heritage and virtuosity - creating a retail space where the past and the future of luxury converge.

STUDIO NICHOLSON RETURNS TO EAST LONDON WITH NEW STORE & RETAIL CONCEPT TO MARK THEIR 15th YEAR ANNIVERSARY

British clothing and lifestyle brand Studio Nicholson is pleased to announce the opening of a second London store on 12th December 2024, returning to Shoreditch in East London, where the brand originated.

Located in a prominent position in the lively shopping destination of Redchurch Street, a new store concept is unveiled in the 957 sq ft space. Studio Nicholson Founder and Creative Director Nick Wakeman conceives each store to be intelligent and purposeful, mixing interesting materials, natural and manmade, to evoke the sensibility of the brand’s clothing. Working with architectural firm Studio Tuesday, the new concept captures the brand’s pared-back attitude, creating a serene and considered setting to deliver a luxury experience for customers.

“We’re so excited to return to Shoreditch where I started the brand from a small office back in 2010 and later ran our first store for many years. We have a loyal group of customers in the area, so it felt all the more important to design a space where you’d want to spend some time. We looked to peaceful and light-filled residential architecture and galleries I’ve visited in Japan for inspiration. I’m so happy with the space as the perfect backdrop for our collections.”

Says Nick Wakeman, Studio Nicholson Founder and Creative Director.

The shopfront, complete with large traditional paned windows, is modernised in a framing of optic white textured paint to match the interior walls and contrast its polished warm grey concrete flooring.

Two long travertine tables, chosen for the stone’s unique chalk and umber tone and grain, stretch through the space and act as a striking central feature. Polished with chamfer edges, the feature creates a calming effect and adds an element of the residential to the space. This is framed by several parallel perimeter and mid-floor brushed steel rails set into the walls and floor to seamlessly blend in and harmoniously display ready-to-wear garments from both men’s and womenswear collections.

An architectural piece of shelving in cherry oak panelled timber stretches floor to ceiling and over 4 metres across the width of the shopfloor to house the brand’s signature leather bags, footwear and accessories upon bull-nosed shelving and textured glass floating shelf toppers. The structure cleverly conceals a wrapping station on its reverse and three spacious fitting rooms beyond, constructed in the same panelled fabrication with pivot door access. Each fitting room interior is fixed with wooden wall-mounted clothes hooks, and the warm wood finish is complemented by a wall lined in rich burgundy tiles framing bespoke mirrors with diffused lighting strip edge detail.

Adjacent to the accessories area sits furniture by Benni Allen, a local architect, designer and maker. Two chairs and a table hand-finished in solid oak are taken from his Low Collection, a series of sculptural objects that echo sensual forms and suggest places to rest and interact whilst playing with scale and stature.

Wakeman’s obsession with fabric and textiles is further translated into the space through the addition of display plinths in polished white tile and natural clay works. Sensual and functional in equal parts, the confident new store concept and overall colour palette of soft, understated tones mirrors the design codes seen in Studio Nicholson’s seasonal collections.

Following existing flagship stores in Soho, London and Aoyama, Tokyo as well as 4 mono-brand stores in South Korea, the new East London store marks 15 years for the brand in 2025 with several high-profile collaborations confirmed throughout the year alongside a global retail expansion. An official store launch and anniversary celebration are planned for February 2025.

Stocking a full product range across both men’s and womenswear alongside leather bags, accessories and anniversary collaborations, the 957sq ft floorplan boasts ample space to welcome members of the public as well as one-to-one styling appointments. To celebrate the opening, a limited edition colourway of the brand’s bestselling Shiboru bag, in Conker Italian grained leather will be available exclusively from Shoreditch store.

The new Studio Nicholson Shoreditch store is located at 29 Redchurch Street, E2 and will be open to the public daily from 10am on weekdays and 12pm on Sundays from 12th December 2024.

SPACE COPENHAGEN COMPLETES

INTERIORS FOR AIAYU’S SHOWROOM

Space Copenhagen, the Danish design studio, has completed interiors for Aiayu’s latest showroom, marking the fourth store which Space Copenhagen has designed for the Danish luxury lifestyle brand. Located in Østerbro’s exclusive residential area in old Copenhagen, with grandiose views of The Lakes, Space Copenhagen has meticulously crafted the universe of Aiayu to be a peaceful, soft and calm retail experience.

As you enter the showroom, customers are instantly greeted by a carefully crafted wooden counter, which acts as a distinct centrepiece, anchoring the space. The wooden counter is complemented by the beautiful chiseled grey stone floor, reflecting Space Copenhagen’s design approach, which effortlessly blends timeless materials and rudimentary principles with an elevated and sophisticated contemporary style. As you move between the adjacent spaces, natural materials such as light oak, St. Leo tactile plaster, raw natural stone and treated metals, create a warm and embracing environment. Knitted and woven essential items harmoniously co-exist with antiques, sculptural objects and gentle lighting.

Aiayu’s collection is displayed in a considered manner across various surfaces. The materials, techniques and colourways of the pieces present the high-quality products

in a minimal and natural style; simply hanging on a hook on a plastered wall, displayed on an antique patinated surface, hanging from a rail of burnt steel or on a beautifully crafted oak table or shelf. The exquisite staging of the showroom encourages consumers to slow down and appreciate skilled craftsmanship, artistry and long-lasting designs.

The design philosophy of the showroom adheres to Space Copenhagen’s commitment to ‘Slow Aesthetics’, which uses natural materials and craft with quality, longevity and a certain slowness inherent to its practice. The material selection prioritises wood, natural stone, tiles and a subdued colour palette with subtle textures. Each material is chosen for its inherent elegance and longevity— principles of simplicity and utility, creating harmony and connecting the space to its Danish heritage.

EUROPE’S LARGEST LUXURY WATCH HOUSE OPENS IN PROMENADEN, OSLO’S FASHION DISTRICT

• Urmaker Bjerke has opened Europe’s largest luxury watch house in Promenaden, Oslo’s Fashion District

• Store forms part of Promenaden Management’s extensive revamp and restoration of Oslo’s iconic Eger quarter

• Bjerke House, set over 2,695 sq. m. across three floors, will be home to brands such as Patek Philippe, Cartier, OMEGA, Tudor, Panerai, IWC Schaffhausen, Blancpain, Longines, Hublot and Breitling.

• The newly arrived luxury watch brands will complement the Urmaker Bjerke-operated Rolex boutique on Nedre Slottsgate, where Promenaden Management is the main landlord

Norwegian family-owned watchmaker Urmaker Bjerke has opened Europe’s largest luxury watch house at Eger quarter in Promenaden, Oslo’s Fashion District.

Bjerke House, set over 2,965 sq. m. across three floors, will be home to brands such as Patek Philippe, Cartier, OMEGA, Tudor, Panerai, IWC Schaffhausen, Blancpain, Longines, Hublot and Breitling. The space will also act as the headquarters of Urmaker Bjerke, with six different entrances for the store’s most well-known brands.

Urmaker Bjerke will be Eger quarter’s largest occupier. The wider redevelopment will see the arrival of standalone stores, a restaurant, a lifestyle concept store, and highquality office space.

In line with the heightened demand for experiential shopping experiences, Bjerke House will feature a dedicated events space on its second floor, as well as instore workshops and the first physical Bjerke Vintage & Pre-Owned concept store.

The store forms a key part of Promenaden Management’s extensive revamp of Oslo’s Eger shopping gallery, which

was originally built in the 1850s. Promenaden Management, which is wholly owned by pan-European real estate investment manager MARK Capital Management, worked with Oslo city’s municipality as part of a meticulous fiveyear reconstruction project to create a modern luxury retail offering while paying homage to the site’s history.

Annette Lund, CEO, Promenaden Management, said: “The opening of Bjerke House represents another milestone for us as we continue to bolster Promenaden’s status as a world-renowned luxury shopping district. The store, as well as the wider Eger building in which it sits, has been carefully renovated to accommodate both the tastes of modern luxury shoppers as well as Oslo’s architectural and design heritage. In doing so, we were able to attract a world-class talent that brings with it the world’s leading watch manufacturers in Urmaker Bjerke, which has a historic attachment to the city having opened its first store in Oslo 101 years ago.”

Aleksander Bjerke Opsahl, Director of Sales, Urmaker Bjerke, said: "Facilitating good customer experiences has always been a goal for us, and now we have even better conditions for providing personal service and delivering world-class quality. Good customer relationships have been a driving force for Urmaker Bjerke for 101 years, and now we want to take it even further with the opening of the Bjerke House."

Bjerke House at Eger quarter is the latest capex initiative by MARK Capital Management and Promenaden Management across the Promenaden portfolio, which comprises nearly 90,000 square metres of prime retail and office space in central Oslo.

This includes significant investment into Steen & Strøm (S&S) shopping centre, the world’s oldest continuously running department store and anchor of the Promenaden portfolio, to diversify the store’s product and service offerings, as well as enhance its provision of experience-led shopping experiences. S&S celebrated its best every trading period with sales up 14% in H1 2024.

The District also includes Nedre Slottsgate, known as the ‘Bond Street’ of Oslo. This prestigious street boasts nine of the world's top ten luxury brands, including Gucci, Hermès, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Saint Laurent, Moncler, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, with Prada set to join in 2025. These iconic names were introduced to the area after Promenaden Management assumed control of the district in 2016.

The Promenaden property portfolio is held in a joint venture between a MARK-advised fund and a Middle Eastern institutional investor.

Justin Johnston-Taki, Senior Vice President, MARK Capital Management, said: “The transformation of Eger shopping gallery is a demonstration of MARK’s ability to create value through the repositioning of heritage assets that were previously home to underperforming retail. When we assumed management of the Promenaden portfolio, Eger was a struggling fashion-led department store. We recognised the underlying strengths of Steen & Strøm, so invested significantly to upgrade the offering there while differentiating Eger by introducing a blend of uses anchored by an innovative concept that is a first-of-itskind in the Oslo market.”

MARK INGRAM BRIDAL ATELIER

The Mark Ingram Atelier is synonymous with being at the heart of luxury and fashion, situated just steps away from the vibrant Park Avenue. For the past 20 years, it has been a beacon in bridal fashion, drawing brides from around the globe who seek not only the finest couture but also an intimate, personalised experience in a setting rich with history and sophistication. Mark Ingram, the visionary behind the Atelier, meticulously hand-picks each gown, ensuring that his collection reflects modern aesthetics while remaining timeless. Each piece resonates with the refined tastes of his clientele, embodying grace, style, and a contemporary elegance that has defined the Atelier’s identity for two decades.

The Atelier's ambiance is crafted to offer an unmatched experience of luxury and white-glove service. Brides from across the nation and beyond come to immerse themselves in its carefully curated space and, if fortunate, to work directly with Mr. Ingram himself. In envisioning the ideal space for the Atelier, interior designer Hao Lam, designer and owner of HAONOAH, collaborated closely with the team, merging Mr. Ingram’s inspiration with her own design expertise to bring a dreamlike atmosphere to life. It was an honour for Hao when Dawn Bromander, the President and Chief Operating Officer of Mark Ingram Atelier introduced her to this project. The location inside the historic Dumont Building—a striking example of Art Deco and Neo-Gothic architecture—sets the stage for a memorable shopping experience. Working with SRS Architect and Area Builders, the design team maintained the building’s rich history. Arched antique brass window frames have been meticulously restored, preserving the architectural heritage and providing a breathtaking backdrop that feels both timeless and modern.

Together, Hao and the client crafted an aesthetic that caters to every bride's fantasy. With a calming palette of warm greens, blues, and greys, Hao sought to establish an elegant, tranquil setting, where sophistication is felt in every corner. This colour scheme wasn’t only picked for its

visual appeal—it was selected to evoke serenity and provide a soothing canvas that enhances the gowns’ beauty. The colours also complement the brides themselves, ensuring that they feel their most radiant in an atmosphere that feels luxurious yet welcoming.

To elevate the experience, Hao designed the space with intentional flow, guiding each bride through a journey from the reception area to lounges and dressing rooms. Every element was thoughtfully planned to enhance the customer’s journey, creating a sense of effortless movement throughout the space. Brides are greeted by warm, inviting tones and an air of quiet sophistication as they enter, followed by carefully appointed seating areas where they can relax and enjoy the experience. By the time they reach the dressing rooms, the space has transitioned subtly to provide a more intimate, personal environment, ensuring a memorable visit. Hao’s attention to space planning allowed her to craft a layout that balances elegance with functionality, facilitating an experience that is both immersive and meticulously organised.

One key component of this transformation was the flooring, for which Hao selected high-quality wood from Havwoods, a supplier renowned for its premium wood products. Her past experience with Havwoods during her work in hospitality design instilled confidence in their product

quality and reliability. After careful consideration, Hao chose Corniga wood, a light-toned variety that brightens the space while subtly complementing other elements without overpowering them. "The lightness of the wood lifted up the space, without overshadowing any elements," Hao explained. Corniga wood’s versatility and timeless appeal made it the perfect choice for the Atelier, embodying both durability and understated beauty.

Hao emphasized the importance of selecting wood flooring that not only enhances the aesthetic but also serves the space functionally. "Look for subtlety; the tone should align with your desired style, ensuring a harmonious flow throughout the area. Consider functionality as well; a durable, thicker plank allows for future refinishing with minimal upkeep," she advises. Her design philosophy seamlessly marries practicality with aesthetic appeal, resulting in spaces that are not only visually stunning but also enduring and functional. The choice of Havwoods flooring reflects this approach, adding to the Atelier’s charm while providing a sturdy foundation that will withstand the test of time.

The use of unique wallpapers was another critical design element that Hao incorporated to bring texture and warmth to the space. The Scalamandre Crested Crane Mural Grasscloths wallpaper, framed in custom high-gloss millwork, created a series of “art walls” that bring romance and visual interest to the Atelier. This mural, with its elegant depictions of cranes, adds a timeless, almost ethereal quality to the interiors, aligning with the shop’s bridal theme. Paired with floral wallpaper, these “art walls” offer

a modern play on traditional wallpaper use, blending the classic with the contemporary. Each wallpaper was chosen not only for its beauty but also for the way it interacts with light, adding depth and creating an inviting, layered atmosphere.

To ensure cohesion across all design elements, Benjamin Moore paint colours were chosen with great care, selected specifically to harmonise with the overall palette and to accentuate the other design materials. The tones chosen were tailored to enhance brides' skin tones, ensuring they appear with a natural, warm glow in the space. This detail, though subtle, speaks volumes about Hao's dedication to every aspect of the client experience, down to how each bride feels in the space. By creating an environment that complements their natural beauty, Hao has elevated the shopping experience to a truly luxurious level, where every bride can feel like the best version of herself.

The Atelier is more than a bridal boutique—it is a meticulously crafted environment that reflects Mark Ingram's dedication to providing an unforgettable experience. Every detail, from the colour palette to the wood flooring, wallpaper, and layout, was thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious, dreamlike space. Brides who enter the Atelier aren’t just shopping for a gown; they’re stepping into a world where their fantasies are embraced, where the experience itself is as memorable as the dress they choose. With Hao's vision and Mr. Ingram’s commitment to excellence, the Mark Ingram Atelier continues to set the standard for what a luxury bridal experience can be.

ASTRID & MIYU

Astrid & Miyu, founded in 2012, is a London-based cult jewellery brand that has been revolutionising the industry and leading the way in experiential retail. Known for their unique and stylish pieces, Astrid & Miyu has cultivated a dedicated following and established itself as a trendsetter in the jewellery market.

Shoplight, a company renowned for its innovative lighting solutions, has built a strong relationship with Astrid & Miyu, illuminating over ten of their permanent and pop-up retail spaces across the UK. Their latest collaboration with Astrid & Miyu was for the new ‘HOAM’ store located on the iconic Carnaby Street, a significant achievement for the brand and an exciting project for Shoplight to be part of.

The brand-new store spans two floors and is strategically positioned next to Liberty’s and END., making it a prime location for the painted pink House of Astrid & Miyu (HOAM) to stand out. The store’s vibrant and inviting aesthetic is designed to attract and engage customers, offering a unique shopping experience.

Shoplight’s lighting designer, Sam Adams, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This was a lovely project to work on, and I enjoyed creating a lighting scheme that matched and emphasised the Astrid & Miyu brand aesthetic.”

Based on Astrid & Miyu’s initial layout, Sam created a lighting scheme for the ground floor which included Raider Micro lights situated together in pairs. Wide-angle beams were placed around the perimeter and evenly across the ceiling to highlight walkways, while narrow beams were strategically used to brighten window bays and merchandise countertops, creating the perfect ambient and display lighting.

A standout feature of the store is the dome surrounded by ceiling mirrors, which presented a unique challenge for the Shoplight team. Their lighting designer had to carefully consider the placement of lights around this feature to achieve optimum results. By considering the distance of the Raider Micro spotlights and the angle of the narrow beam, Shoplight expertly illuminated the merchandise

Photography Credit -

Guy Archard

on the shelving window displays. As shown in the lighting calculation above, when focused correctly, the lights are angled perfectly to bring the customer's attention to the merchandise on display.

In the four tattoo and piercing studios, recessed Colt Mini spotlights were used to provide the ideal lighting level for tasks to be carried out, while creating a calming and relaxed environment. This beautifully matched the elemental theme and design of each room, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Maintaining the building’s original features, such as the beams and a slanted ceiling, posed additional challenges for Shoplight when creating the scheme for the first floor. To resolve the uneven ceiling, TrackMounted Spotlights were suspended to 2.5 metres. A combination of Titan GS spotlights with narrow and wide beams were used across the ceiling, establishing a warm and inviting atmosphere.

designer has been able to guide where the angled beams will hit surfaces. The light is focused on the correct places to elevate customer experience.

For this store, Astrid & Miyu opted to include Casambi smart lighting controls within their store, allowing them to create different atmospheres in the store. Since the opening of HOAM, the brand has hosted several events in the store and Casambi has meant they can adjust the light levels for the specific needs of the event.

Astrid & Miyu’s HOAM is a fantastic example of how stores can elevate their customers’ experience beyond a conventional transaction. HOAM encapsulates a full shopping experience, allowing customers to immerse themselves in the brand. A visit to their store can be considered a day out, an opportunity to create memorable moments with friends and family. This innovative approach to retail not only strengthens customer loyalty but also sets a new standard for experiential shopping.

The image and lighting calculation above show how the

STANDING ON SOLID GROUND WITH PRACTICAL SUSTAINABLE FLOORINGS

By Rob Fletcher

With sustainability very much at the front of retailers’ minds, we look at how choice of flooring can have a major impact on long-term environmental strategy and improve the overall look of your stores.

There is no escaping the subject of sustainability, with retailers are under increasing pressure to implement changes to make them into a more planet friendly operation. Of course, this is much easier said than done, with “going green” not something that can be done overnight and instead requires careful thought and planning.

While there are some more obvious steps retailers can take to bolster sustainability such as switching plastic-based bags for paper alternatives and putting in place product

Demand rising for sustainable solutions

First up, Richard Allen is sales director at Karndean Designflooring, a brand of luxury vinyl flooring that replicates the look and feel of natural materials, with some clients in the retail sector. Allen said tackling key environmental challenges and protecting the natural world have become major considerations for the construction

recycling schemes, other actions may not be so apparent. One area often overlooked is flooring; by making changes here, you may not improve only your own sustainability but also add a fresh new look to your stores and save certain costs in the long run.

How is all this possible in just a few steps? Retail Focus caught up with experts in the flooring market to find out more about their latest solutions and the long-term benefits they offer to retailers large and small.

industry, with retailers encouraged to consider their own role in this moving forward.

“As our customers and end users become more aware of environmental issues and demand sustainable products, it’s key that retailers understand the comparative

Above: British fashion brand RIXO recently worked with Karndean to install new flooring at its head office and Carnaby Street store

performance of different flooring types,” Allen said. “Our Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) set out the performance of each product range, from thickness of the wear layer to acoustic qualities and slip resistance and come with the reassurance of third-party verification.”

Taking a closer look at the solutions available from Karndean, Allen said each floor has been handcrafted for a “highly authentic aesthetic” yet also designed to be low maintenance, hard wearing and long lasting, even in busy retail settings.

“In fact, we are so confident in the durability and longevity of our products that each floor comes with a 20-year light commercial guarantee,” he said. “In addition, our loose lay and rigid core flooring can be re-lifted and reused in another situation, extending its useful lifespan.”

Allen also talked up the Karndean Evolve strategy, which sets out how the company will reduce its environmental impact through continual improvement and outlines how it is integrating the principles of sustainability across its

Exceptional performance

Also offering advice is Gerflor, which, for over 80 years, has been designing, manufacturing and marketing decorative and eco-responsible solutions for floors. Kevin Johnson, retail manager at Gerflor, and Lee Jacovou, key account manager, said retailers are increasingly recognising that sustainable flooring offers a powerful combination of longterm durability and a reduced ecological footprint. They add that while that eco-conscious choices resonate with today’s consumers, there is more to it than recycled content alone.

“Sustainable flooring is engineered to deliver exceptional performance over time, making it a cost-effective investment in high-traffic retail environments,” Johnson and Jacovou said. “Materials like low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and phthalate-free options are not only better for the environment but also create healthier spaces for staff and customers by improving indoor air quality.

”Additionally, choosing sustainable flooring enhances brand image. Retailers showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices can set themselves apart in a competitive market, appealing to the growing demographic of environmentally aware consumers.

global operations.

“Taking action across all aspects of our business, we have committed to targets throughout our supply chain and at customer touchpoints, including the use of lower emission delivery vehicles, sustainability training for interior designers, retailers and contractors and a take back scheme to recycle offcuts,” he said. “Working together, we can collectively create a healthier and more resilient flooring industry that not only meets current legislation but also anticipates future requirements.”

Offering a real-world example of this approach in action in the retail industry, Allen points to British fashion brand RIXO. The retailer recently opted for Karndean LooseLay flooring in its head office and Carnaby Street store.

“The loose lay format is a highly practical choice in this retail setting with a durable, quiet and scratch resistant surface,” he said. “Should damage occur, it is quick and easy to make repairs by simply lifting and replacing individual planks.”

It’s about aligning with a broader movement toward responsible business practices that benefit people, the planet, and the bottom line.”

Expanding on these benefits, Johnson and Jacovou said one of the stand-out plus point of sustainable flooring is its longevity. They said flooring is designed to withstand high-traffic environments, it often surpasses the first refurbishment cycle, reducing the need for premature replacement. For retailers, this means substantial mediumto long-term cost savings. With fewer replacement cycles, retailers save on material costs, labour, and the downtime associated with refurbishments.

“Take, for example, the heavy-duty, interlocking products, which are ideal for retail spaces,” Johnson and Jacovou said. “These glue-free tiles are not only durable and easy to maintain but also recyclable at the end of their life. In fact, they’re so resilient that they can remain in place even during renovations or when a space changes hands, and they can often be lifted and reused at other locations.”

On top of this, specifying the right flooring can bring operational savings through reduced cleaning and maintenance needs. When paired with a compatible barrier

Working together, we can collectively create a healthier and more resilient flooring industry that not only meets current legislation but also anticipates future requirements

matting system, Johnson and Jacovou said sustainable flooring can cut down on cleaning frequency. This reduces water use, minimises the need for cleaning chemicals, and helps lower operational costs, all while lessening the impact on the environment. Plus, easier cleaning routines can reduce staff fatigue, supporting a healthier workplace.

Meanwhile, for retailers prioritising design and customer experience, Johnson and Jacovou said sustainable options like linoleum offer the ideal blend of aesthetic appeal and eco-friendly properties.

“With a broad colour palette and high sustainability credentials linoleum stands out as a favourite for retail designers looking to create inspiring, responsible

Quality and environmental responsibility

Also weighing in is Chris Robinson-Hart, sustainability manager at Amtico, a supplier of high-performance luxuryvinyl tile flooring products Robinson-Hart said sustainability in retail spaces is increasingly expected, not just appreciated, as consumers become more eco-conscious.

spaces,” they said. “Overall, sustainable flooring solutions support retailers by delivering exceptional performance, enhancing brand image, and reducing both operational costs and environmental impact.”

As to how Gerflor can help, Johnson and Jacovou said getting the specification right from the start is essential, with its team advising on every detail, from product choice to installation methods and maintenance recommendations.

“We work closely with retailers across the UK and globally, assisting with specifications for stores of all sizes, each with its own set of requirements—from high foot traffic to heavy mechanical loads,” they added.

Robinson-Hart added that options like bio-attributed LVT, which uses renewable materials, help retailers minimise the environmental impact of their interiors, while meeting demand for lower-impact products and interiors. For instance, Amtico Bio is an option made using bio-attributed PVC and can be specified across the Signature, Spacia,

Sustainable flooring is engineered to deliver exceptional performance over time, making it a cost-effective investment in high-traffic retail environments

“Beyond environmental benefits, sustainable flooring offers retailers a way to balance durability and design appeal while aligning with broader company sustainability goals,” he said. “Flooring choices that contribute to reduced carbon footprints and promote longevity reflect well on retailers’ brands and with luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, it’s also an opportunity to support long-term cost savings by reducing the frequency of replacements, which ultimately benefits both the environment and the retailer.”

Expanding on this, Robinson-Hart said sustainable flooring solutions bring lasting benefits to high-traffic areas while at the same time emphasising quality. He said LVT products, for instance, are resilient and adaptable, offering the performance needed for commercial spaces.

“With options like our Amtico Signature collection, which includes a 20-year commercial warranty, retailers can trust that their flooring will withstand the demands of a busy retail environment,” he said. “Meanwhile, this choice reassures customers that they are in a space that values durability and sustainable practices, strengthening their connection with the retailer."

Beyond environmental

benefits, sustainable flooring offers retailers a way to balance durability and design appeal while aligning with broader company sustainability goals

Form and Marine collections, plus our laying patterns, 36plus safety floors and Acoustic options.

“Amtico Bio is chemically and physically identical to Amtico’s standard LVT products – it provides the same high-quality and unrivalled designs but with a lower carbon footprint” he said. “Plus, the planks and tiles also feature the unique benefits of each collection, such as Signature’s 1mm wear layer and 20-year commercial warranty.

“In addition, Amtico’s flooring material has low VOCs and can be recycled at the end of its life, reducing its long-term environmental impact. This is beneficial both during the design concept stage and when it is no longer required.”

Designers who specify Amtico Bio will also receive a sustainability declaration to guarantee Amtico has sourced PVC from renewable biomass material and followed a

Above: According to Amtico, sustainability in retail spaces is increasingly expected as consumers become more ecoconscious

Left: Gerflor said sustainable flooring offers a powerful combination of long-term durability and a reduced ecological footprint

stringent auditing process set out by ISCC Plus, a scheme that promotes compliance, third-party verification and traceability throughout a supply chain.

“To ensure bio-attributed flooring is affordable and accessible for all projects, Amtico utilises the ‘mass balance’ principle for the PVC manufacturing process,” he said. “This incorporates renewable biomass materials into our existing manufacturing processes, rather than creating costly new ones.”

Looking the part while being more sustainable sounds like something of a win-win for those in the retail sector. Working with specialist suppliers such as those included here can help you to identify the most effective solutions that can help propel you and your stores into the modern market.

On this, Robinson-Hart concluded: “Opting for sustainable flooring is about more than just aligning with trends; it’s about creating spaces that meet today’s standards for quality and environmental responsibility. Flooring solutions that offer strength, style, and sustainability support the retailer’s mission to design experiences that engage customers both visually and ethically, keeping pace with an increasingly eco-conscious market.”

"Being part of the SDEA continues to provide valuable connections, business support and the opportunity to celebrate the very best talent from across the industry through the Creative Retail Awards each year. "

Claire White Antalis

"I have been an active member of SDEA for 7 years and found it highly valuable in the furtherment and growth of key industry connections and links to new customers. "

Rob Hill

Graphica Display Ltd

"Our last 3 years fees have been covered by just one of the leads we received from the SDEA this year."

Mark Chatterton Morplan Ltd

LUXURY BRAND POP-UP STORE HYPERLOCAL RETAIL STRATEGIES

Ghalia BOUSTANI.

Retail

Consultant

|

Published author | Visiting lecturer

Hyper-local strategies have been increasingly applied by luxury brands to connect with specific communities through limited-time pop-up stores. Their ability to create highly curated experiences that are tailored to regional tastes, cultural preferences, and local consumers is made possible by this approach. The brand's presence and customer relationship are enhanced by the adoption of hyper-local retail strategies, which offer several key advantages.

Luxury brand strategies can be enhanced by incorporating several factors:

1. Deepened Customer Connection and Personalization: Hyperlocal strategies enable luxury brands to form stronger and more personal connections with their customers. Brands demonstrate their understanding and respect for their unique identity by tailoring products and experiences to the local culture, traditions, and preferences. Personalization extends beyond product offerings and includes store aesthetics, local partnerships, and exclusive events. Brands that invest in understanding their regional nuances, fostering brand loyalty, and emotional engagement make customers feel valued.

2. Cultural Relevance and Authenticity:

Luxury brands can enhance their cultural relevance by incorporating local culture into their retail strategies. In a world where consumers value authenticity, it's important for brands to reflect the cultural heritage of a location to avoid appearing detached or overly globalized. The brand's sense of place allows it to resonate with local communities and travellers who seek experiences that reflect the uniqueness of the locale. Furthermore, collaborating with local artisans, designers, or artists strengthens the brand's authenticity and enhances its reputation for exclusiveness and craftsmanship.

3. Exclusive, Limited-Time Offerings:

4. Enhanced Brand Storytelling: Local retail strategies offer brands an opportunity to craft richer narratives around their products. When a brand weaves local history, art, or craftsmanship into its pop-up stores, it tells a story that resonates with consumers in a deeper way. For instance, a luxury brand might highlight local materials

or artisans in their design process, reinforcing the idea that each product is a piece of art shaped by the culture around it. These stories not only draw customers in but also help elevate the perceived value of the products.

5. Community Engagement and Brand Loyalty: Luxury brands establish themselves as more than just international corporations by working with local communities. A commitment to supporting local economies and preserving cultural heritage can be shown by collaborating with local artisans, designers, or influencers. Through this approach, the brand is made more human, creating a sense of goodwill and deepening community ties. Over time, this leads to a more committed customer base, as customers perceive the brand as aligned with local values and invested in the community's achievement.

6. Adaptability and Market Responsiveness:

Applying a hyper-local strategy enables luxury brands to be more agile and responsive to market trends. By observing

consumer preferences in a particular region, brands can test new concepts, products, or designs through pop-ups without committing to a full-scale launch. This adaptability helps luxury brands innovate while reducing the risks associated with entering new markets or launching experimental collections. The data and insights collected from these localized initiatives also provide valuable feedback for shaping future global strategies.

7. Differentiation in a Competitive Market: The luxury market is highly competitive, with brands constantly striving for consumer attention. Especially in major urban centres where luxury stores thrive, hyper-local strategies provide a distinct point of differentiation. By constructing unique, location-specific experiences, a brand can distinguish itself from competitors who may not be as wellversed in local nuances. The brand's image of exclusivity, innovation, and cultural awareness is strengthened by this differentiation.

The use of hyper-local strategies, particularly through pop-up stores, can often generate significant buzz and media attention. By capitalizing on the uniqueness of the experience, they attract both local customers and tourists who are eager for a different experience from their traditional flagship store visits. Media outlets often cover the shopping experience as part of cultural events or trends due to the sense of occasion and exclusivity it creates.

Luxury brands are discovering that one-size-fits-all marketing is no longer applicable in an era where consumers are seeking unique and culturally resonant experiences. Brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, and Hermès use hyperlocal strategies to showcase how they can customize their pop-up stores to reflect the tastes and traditions of their local audiences. Their elevated products and strengthened relationships with customers make the luxury experience feel more intimate and exclusive. By adhering to local culture and providing regionspecific experiences, these brands ensure their presence lasts long after the pop-up store ends.

Gucci has been ahead of the game when it comes to utilizing hyper-local pop-up stores, with their strategy grounded in comprehending local culture and the history of the cities where they establish themselves. The 'Gucci Garden Archetypes' exhibition, which was initially introduced in Florence, aimed to provide an immersive experience that tied back to the city's artistic heritage and the Italian roots of Gucci. By using archived designs and working with local artists, Gucci taps into a city's cultural identity and ensures their narrative aligns with local values.

In Los Angeles, Gucci opened a pop-up shop to commemorate the brand's centenary, with references to the Hollywood film industry. By collaborating with local artists and designers, they were able to showcase the city's unique creative spirit, demonstrating how they tailor their stores to the cultural pulse of each location.

Louis Vuitton, a heritage brand with a global presence, has also taken a hyper-local approach through its pop-up ventures. The Miami Design District pop-up showcased a collection that was exclusively for the U.S. market, making it a notable example. The city's vibrant art scene was a source of inspiration for the store, and it even featured locally commissioned murals and sculptures to anchor the experience in Miami's cultural landscape.

Their Tokyo pop-up enhanced the connection with the city by incorporating Japan's artistic traditions. The popup store was infused with traditional design elements like calligraphy and local craftsmanship by Louis Vuitton and Japanese artists. Louis Vuitton has been able to connect with customers on a more personal and regional level by carefully incorporating local heritage into their pop-up strategy.

Chanel, synonymous with classic and timeless elegance, has ventured into the world of hyper-local pop-up stores. However, their focus has been on combining local

craftsmanship with the luxury ethos of the brand. Chanel collaborated with South Korean artisans during a 2022 pop-up in Seoul to produce exclusive items that were only sold in that store. The combination of exclusivity and a deep appreciation for local talent led to a buzz among collectors and fashion aficionados.

In addition, Chanel frequently hosts these temporary stores in landmark locations, fostering a connection between their high-fashion offerings and the architectural or historical importance of that location. In Venice, a pop-up showcased the city's baroque architecture to juxtapose the brand's modern designs, fostering a conversation between old and new, local and global.

The brand's core identity has not been compromised by pop-up stores' ability to cater to regional tastes. The Chinese luxury consumer's preferences were taken into account when Dior launched a series of pop-up stores in China in 2021. In cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, Dior introduced capsule collections that were exclusive to each region, which further enhanced a sense of uniqueness.

In some of its pop-up stores, Dior has gone a step further by offering personalized shopping experiences in its pop-ups, allowing customers to design bespoke items that reflect their individual tastes. The brand is not only a luxury retailer but also a participant in the local cultural narrative, and these experiences are designed to feel deeply personal. Although it is known for its craftsmanship, it takes a slightly different approach with its hyper-local pop-up stores by emphasizing local culture and traditions. In the brand’s 2021 pop-up in Dubai, Hermès incorporated elements of Arabian design into the store layout and collaborated with local designers to feature Middle Eastern craftsmanship alongside their luxury products.

In Paris, Hermès hosted a pop-up that showcased the French countryside's artisanship through live leatherworking demonstrations, which helped establish a stronger link between the brand and local heritage. These stores are not just places to shop, but also places where the brand can show its dedication to conserving and celebrating craftsmanship in each region.

Luxury brands applying hyper-local retail strategies derive significant value from their ability to engage with consumers on a personal level, enhance their cultural relevance, and offer exclusive products that tap into local tastes. These strategies not only strengthen brand loyalty but also enable luxury brands to be agile and adaptable in a rapidly evolving global market. Luxury brands can enhance their overall prestige and attractiveness by focusing on regional distinctions and creating richer, more immersive experiences that resonate with consumers both locally and globally.

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR RETAIL IN 2025?

By Rob Fletcher

As another busy year in retail draws to a close, Retail Focus sits around the crystal ball with several industry experts and pick out some of the major trends for the industry keep an eye out for in 2025.

It’s that time of year again when we can sit down, pour ourselves a little (or indeed large) glass of something, and reminisce about the year that was. It is fair to say that retail has had its ups and down in 2024, with plenty of challenges accompanying the good times.

While certain trends that were apparent this year may not be as key in 2025, others will continue into the next year and beyond, playing a major role in shaping customer demand. We will also see other trends emerge as we progress though the next 12 months and responding to these will be crucially important to the success of retailers large and small.

With this in mind, we caught up with several industry members to get their take on what the next year might have in store for the industry and retailers can prepare to ensure they make the most of new opportunities and demands.

Steven Ubsdell, chief creative officer, Checkland Kindleysides

Checkland Kindleysides, a global retail design agency, sees 2024 as something of a cultural reset for retailers. Ubsdell explained: “Across the board we’ve seen investment heavily geared towards international expansion and brand elevation. On the flip side, we have also witnessed an increasing level of standardisation emerge across retail design, which is resulting in a lack of differentiation and slow growth for many brands, in multiple sectors.

“With brands having to work harder than ever to maintain attention, loyalty and consumer spend, powering authenticity with imagination - have driven impressive commercial results through dynamic retail design.”

So, what can we expect in 2025 and how can Checkland Kindleysides help retailers? Ubsdell said: “For a lot of brands 2024 was about recalibration – whereas 2025 will be about re-ignition. Retail will see a renewed energy and new creative directions brought to life. Translating their new brand vision into a holistic retail experience, so that there isn’t a disconnect between brand and retail, will be

key.

Above: Checkland Kindleysides collaborated with adidas on a highly-directional concept store, 8428 Melrose. Image: adidas

“Authenticity over novelty will also be the mantra for 2025. Consumers are increasingly investing in timeless classics and iconic pieces over short-term fads and trendbased, impulse purchases. Paired with the evolution of the ‘Buy Less, Buy Better’ mindset – more conscious and considered consumerism will mean brands will have to work harder to bring their brand and product stories to life, in ever more immersive and enticing ways.

“As the widespread, algorithmic-homogeneity becomes more pervasive - we also believe experiential retail will undergo a major reimagining, refocusing on design differentiation, visual artistry and amplifying the emotion of shopping. Three strategies for success, will be offering Sensorial #IRL Escapism, creating Disruptive Spatial Narratives and strengthening brand loyalty through Connected Experience.”

Across the board we’ve seen investment heavily geared towards international expansion and brand elevation

Chris Newell, creative partner, Syn

As a marketing agency working within the retail sector, Syn has seen several trends emerge in 2024. Newell explained: “From a technology point of view, we’ve seen a bigger shift in the power of AI, data-driven experiences and brand personalisation. Enabling brands to ‘hyperpersonalise’ the right comms or content to the right people at the right time based on analysing date and learnt behaviours.

“In bricks and mortar, the key take-outs have seen an increase in retailers delivering visually rich digital content to blur the lines between the experiences customers are getting on a device and replicating on a larger scale at the store. Personalised IRL experiences have also taken a big focus with brands becoming more of a high street platform to connect fans and communities with creators. Brands have had to change their strategies when it

comes to disruptive retail and reset the way in which they segment spend to in how they show up on high streets.

Looking to 2025, Newell said stores will need to continue to level up their offering when it comes to pulling customers in and connecting with them on a deeper and more emotional level at bricks and mortar.

“The desire of instant gratification of purchase is a thing of the past thanks to convenience-driven AI technologies and data-driven operations that can get products in hand effortlessly and quickly,” he said. “2025 will see brands continue to invest in exclusivity and community.

“For online retail, more of a shift-change in brand partnerships and influencer marketing; moving further away from creator content models for entertainment to driving online sales. Also, with the continual rise

Above: Syn said brand partnerships and influencer marketing will play a big role in strategies in 2025

of ‘omnichannel retail’, there is a focus on delivering cohesive, convenience-driven behaviours and the flexibility to shop between channels seamlessly.”

Newell also picked up on the rise of second-hand shopping,

with retailers like Vinted and Depop fuelling and fulfilling this movement. He said: “Retailers will need to consider how they can be part of this with innovative thinking of product inventories.”

James Barnes, business director and co-founder at Backlash

Another marketing agency, Backlash, has noted similar trends in 2024, with Barnes picking out digital saturation and the need for physical connection, smarter and more efficient budgets, and ensuring omni-channel experiences as standard.

On this latter point, Barnes said that successful experiential campaigns no longer exist in isolation; they must be integrated into the broader omni-channel marketing ecosystem. He expanded: “With increasingly tight budgets, brands are looking for ways to amplify the impact of their physical events across multiple channels. From usergenerated content (UGC) and live streaming to influencer collaborations and social selling, event concepts now need to serve multiple purposes, both in the real world and online.”

As for 2025, Barnes said trends seen take shape in 2024 are poised to deepen and evolve throughout the next year. On

this, he said experiential marketing will continue to thrive, offering innovative ways for brands to engage consumers in meaningful, real-life interactions.

Meanwhile, with the global economic climate remaining volatile, consumers and businesses alike will be looking for more value-driven experiences. He said: “Retailers and brands will need to dig deeper to demonstrate the true worth of their offerings. In 2025, this focus on value will be crucial.”

Finally, on omni-channel marketing, Barnes said complexity here will continue to evolve, but physical experiences will increasingly be viewed as a vital, human-centric solution in engaging consumers. He added: “As digital channels grow more fragmented, in-person brand activations will offer a unique opportunity to forge deeper connections with customers, creating memorable, immersive experiences difficult to replicate online.”

James Breaks, associate director of design, rpa:group

rpa:group, which works with retail partners across design, architecture and project and cost management services, is in agreement about the increasing and evolving role of AI within the industry.

Breaks explained: “AI has really started to come into its own to capture and utilise customer data, to deliver an increasingly personalised service and experience. Social media also continues to influence purchasers and provides a channel to deliver their increasing demand for

authenticity in storytelling.

“This is especially important for Gen Z shoppers, who are far more likely to trust a live-streamer's review than traditional advertisements. Transparency and honesty have become paramount and will continue to be an important part of brand storytelling, influencing the entire customer journey.”

Breaks added that AI is going to be increasingly used to help enable retailers to hone the personalised experience that customers are progressively coming to expect, both in 2025 and beyond.

“AI will move closer to completing the 360-degree experience in collaboration with the human face of the brand, as well as the seamless operational delivery,” he said.

Aside from this, Breaks is predicting a stronger focus on how a product was sourced and made, with consumers making their purchasing decisions based on this. He said: “Savvy retailers can turn their supply chain transparency into a competitive advantage, ensuring that their sourcing and sustainability practices are both virtuous and transparent.

“’Vintage’’ will continue to gain popularity. No longer seen as something only utilised by those who are financially strained, it is now being embraced by the “middle classes”, with many retail giants launching their own resale platforms to cater for them. This also links to the increasingly visible conscientious and sustainable decision making of their customers.”

The desire of instant gratification of purchase is a thing of the past thanks to convenience-driven AI technologies and data-driven operations that can get products in hand effortlessly and quickly

Above: Backlash recently partnered L'Oréal on its 'Worth It' pop-up under the Piccadilly Lights in London

Brandon Kiffer, managing director, user-generated

gontent, PowerReviews, a

1WorldSync company

Casting the net further still and 1WorldSync specialises in product content orchestration, enabling more than 17,000 brands and retailers in over 60 countries. Like others in the market, Kiffer, who works at 1WorldSync-owned PowerReviews, also backs AI, as well as digital in general, to shape the industry for the better moving forward.

“Brands are adopting a strategic dual approach to AI content verification, maintaining strict human oversight for critical product data like allergen claims and measurements, while allowing more flexibility with subjective marketing content,” Kiffer said. “This nuanced implementation demonstrates how companies are

pragmatically balancing AI's efficiency with consumer safety and brand integrity.

“In 2025, we will also witness a dramatic shift from static to ‘evolutionary QR codes’ that dynamically adapt based on real-time context. The intelligent codes will serve personalised content depending on factors like time of day, store location and consumer behaviour patterns.

“Finally, video content will dominate product detail pages, becoming essential for driving purchases. Static images and text can’t compete with the depth and authenticity that user-generated video reviews offer.”

Jaime Bettencourt, senior vice president, global account management and marketing, Mood Media

Providing in-store media solutions, Mood Media has valuable insight into what is happening in shops around the world. Bettencourt said 2025 will see successful retailers master the “art” of balancing novel experiences with the predictability that customers crave.

“Consumers want the thrill of discovery — new products, experiences and even new music content in-store — but they also crave the comfort of consistency,” Bettencourt said. “Smart retailers will create spaces that cater to both needs. It’s about giving customers a reason to come back

Above: rpa:group works in retail across design, architecture and project and cost management services

and explore while ensuring they can always find their go-to items. This balance will be crucial in keeping brickand-mortar retail relevant and exciting in an increasingly digital world.”

Bettencourt also predicted a shift in the role of store associates, saying they will transition from salespeople to empowered brand ambassadors, armed with technology that gives them real-time access to customer preferences,

purchase history, and product information.

“Imagine walking into a store and having an associate immediately know which size jeans you typically wear or that you've returned similar styles in the past,” she said. “This level of insight allows them to offer truly personalized service, making recommendations based on data rather than guesswork and using technology to enhance human interaction, not replace it.”

Paul Brenner, senior vice president of global retail media and partnerships, Vibenomics

Part of Mood Media is Vibenomics, an in-store digital advertising provider that connects retailers with customers via display, audio and experiential channels. Brenner picks out EMEA as an area that will become a “hotbed” for retail media innovation in 2025, with growth potential enormous.

“As retailers digitise operations, in-store media will emerge as a powerful tool to engage shoppers, with programmatic buying accelerating precision in targeting and measurement,” Brenner said. “Standardised frameworks will provide valuable insights into campaign performance, and cross-border collaborations between brands, retailers, and retail media networks will be crucial

for expanding market reach.”

He also touched on the subject of omni-channel, saying retail media networks will face the major challenge proving how omni-channel touchpoints contribute to a unified view of performance.

“Retailers, which are rapidly transforming into media agencies and measurement companies, will need to demonstrate how these touchpoints drive true incrementality and attributable sales,” he said. “Success will depend on how well they integrate these channels to show the real impact of their efforts.”

AI has really started to come into its own to capture and utilise customer data, to deliver an increasingly personalised service and experience

James Breaks, associate director of design, rpa:group

Concluding our preview is Uniqode, which offers a complete QR Code lifecycle management and analytics solution to partners. Pratap expects a QR data revolution, with organisations to accelerate their use of QR codes for first-party data collection in physical spaces, which will in turn transform how brick-and-mortar businesses gather customer insights.

“This trend will be particularly prominent in retail, where businesses will use QR codes to collect real-time feedback, reviews and customer data directly from store locations,” Pratap said. “This approach offers higher relevance and response rates than traditional email outreach, as it captures customer input during their actual store experience rather than hours or days later.”

Alongside this will be what Pratap described as an “enterprise standardisation wave”, which, over the next five years, will see major retail and restaurant chains will roll

out enterprise-wide policies for digital tools that streamline customer engagement and enhance securities.

“This evolution will replace the fragmented, store-level tech choices with centrally managed platforms that support a seamless customer journey, secure access controls, and consistent data protocols,” Pratap said.

“The move will create a new category of enterprise tools focused on multi-location businesses, providing granular insights and flexibility for both corporate and local store teams.”

Clearly, there is plenty to prepare for and get excited about for 2025 and beyond. While the clear stand-out trends will focus on AI and digital technologies, there is clear demand for more customer-centric strategies that connect retailers to consumers and help influence their buying decision across online and physical retail.

DOROTAPE PRODUCTS

Dorotape is delighted to announce the expansion of their LoopPET range of digital print films and laminates made from post-consumer recycled polyester (rPET).

The newest addition to the range, ASLAN Ultratack DRP07 is made using 30% rPET, which is the equivalent of 50, 1.5L recycled PET water bottles.

Coated with a special water based high tack permanent adhesive (solvent free), ASLAN Ultratack DRP07 is designed for short to medium term applications on to low energy plastics such as PE and PP as well as other difficult to bond to surfaces such as marble, granite and aluminium.

Being 100% PVC free and 30% recycled, with no plasticizers and no VOC’s, the UK Gold Distributor for ASLAN hopes to meet soaring customer demand for environmentally focused digital print media and laminates.

ASLAN Ultratack DRP07 is printable using both Latex and UV Curable inks and has an outdoor durability of up to 3 years. It is available off the shelf at 1370mm wide in full rolls of 50 metres as well as part rolls in increments of 10 metres.

Michael Ingram, Managing Director at Dorotape, announced the exciting development. He said: “As well as being the perfect choice for apolar surfaces, the high tack adhesive of ASLAN DRP07 is also ideal for use for environmentally friendly signage and retail graphics and displays. He added, “This is the greenest solution for a printable high tack self-adhesive film in the market as far as we know”

Dorotape, who have been supplying the industry for over 35 years have vastly expanded their PVC Free and rPET digital print media and laminate range over the last 12 months.

Ultratack DRP07 is the latest addition to this range and enhances their commitment to offering the very latest innovations in product technology and sustainability.

Businesses interested in ASLAN Ultratack DRP07 can contact Dorotape, based in Market Harborough, Leicestershire on 01858 431642 or by email to sales@dorotape.co.uk

Discover a world of limitless creativity with easy dot® PET silver L-UV!

Dorotape are delighted to announce the launch of a new addition to the easy dot® range of digital printable media.

easy dot® PET silver L-UV is a PVC-free film with a highly polished silver chrome metallised finish that adds a touch of elegance and luxury to window displays, in-store advertising and sales promotions.

With a thickness of 100 µm and a trusted dot-shaped adhesive, it not only offers easy handling, effortless bubble free application and residue free removal from a wide range of surfaces but also outstanding print quality with Latex and UV inks.

As well as being printable, the highly polished surface of this film makes it the perfect choice as a cadcut plotter film for cutting lettering and logos, so whether you are planning dazzling Christmas window displays, retail promotions or eye-catching exhibition stands, easy dot® PET silver L-UV is the ideal solution that makes all the difference.

Advantages:

• PVC Free

• Quick and easy bubble free application

• Reduced installation costs - no specialist tools needed

• Outstanding print quality

• Water based adhesive

• Eye-catching reflective surface on both sides

• Residue free removability

• Ideal for window displays, promotions, and exhibition stands

• Also suitable for laser cutting

Michael Ingram, Managing Director at Dorotape, announced the exciting development. He said: “The ultrahigh gloss silver chrome finish of this polyester film is outstanding and the adhesive is already a proven winner.”

Michael added: “This new product really is a game changer for anyone wanting to produce prestigious retail window displays and other instore projects.”

Dorotape, who have been supplying the industry for over 35 years have vastly expanded their PVC Free and rPET digital print media and laminate range over the last 12 months. easy dot® PET silver L-UV is the latest addition to this range and enhances their commitment to offering the very latest innovations in product technology and sustainability.

Businesses interested in easy dot® PET silver L-UV can contact Dorotape, based in Market Harborough, Leicestershire on 01858 431642 or by email to sales@ dorotape.co.uk

TORMAX PRODUCT

TORMAX, a global leader in advanced door automation systems, was recently contracted to install two sets of bi-parting sliding doors at a new Botham’s of Whitby bakery shop and tearoom in North Yorkshire.

The first door is a main entrance into the shop, and the second leads from the Tea Rooms to a patio area with outdoor seating. Both entrances are powered by TORMAX 2201 sliding door drives, each of which are housed in a compact casing that requires an installation height of just 100mm, delivering unobtrusive yet highly functional automation.

With the capacity to handle high levels of footfall, the entrance doors are robust enough to meet the demands of Botham’s daily customer traffic while maintaining low maintenance costs and superior reliability.

Botham’s of Whitby is a fifth generation, familyrun business that was established over 150 years ago. Using many traditional methods of baking, a daily array of breads and baked goods, including the infamous Whitby lemon bun, is produced. Known for its commitment to quality, the bakery has become a respected institution, serving locals, visitors and online customers with its authentic products.

“We have five shops & three tearooms in Whitby and the surrounding area, so we know how important an entrance to our establishments is,” said Jo Botham, Managing Director of Botham’s. “We have previously worked with TORMAX on the entrance to our Pickering branch, so they were an obvious choice. The doors create a warm and barrier-free welcome for all our customers.”

A simple programmable control allows bakery staff to change the opening and closing speeds, hold-open times and opening widths to match foot traffic and weather conditions, minimising heat loss whilst ensuring a smooth through-flow of customers.

TORMAX door systems comply with all major safety and performance standards, including TÜV certification (EN 16005), CE marking, and RoHS directives. With the ability to manage up to 1 million door cycles, the doors are built to last, ensuring Botham’s of Whitby can continue to serve its customers with the same high standards that have defined the brand for over a century.

AS CLOSE TO TIME TRAVEL AS YOU’LL GET

Great minds meet great tech. From up-and-coming challengers to big-name brands. Near-impossible ideas to product pre-launches. Say goodbye to the same-old solutions from the same-old people, and hello to the boundaries of possibility and beyond. Reconnect with state-of-the-art tech at ISE 2025

MAPIC 2024 REVIEW

Paris, 27 November 2024 – The 2024 edition of MAPIC has now closed, but once again it has affirmed itself as an indispensable business platform in an ever-evolving industry. Despite the many challenges facing the retail sector, these three days of networking and information exchange demonstrated that the sector's fundamentals remain strong and its determination unwavering.

The event brought together 4,400 participants, including 1,800 retail representatives, a 12% increase compared to 2023. The presence of major international players such as AEW, CBRE IM, Pradera, Klepierre, URW, Ingka Centres, Nhood, Altarea, Hammerson, IGD, Apsys, Mercialys, Sonae Sierra, and others highlighted the significance of the event.

This year's MAPIC also featured notable participation from Middle Eastern players, including Seven, Diriyah,

and Cenomi, who showcased their projects. It also spotlighted international large-scale developments, such as Entrecampos and Grande-Synthe, the latter being the first project announced by the new partnership between Nhood and the Banque des Territoires.

With an expanded area and a new space dedicated to brand licensing (IP), LeisurUp, the zone dedicated to leisure and immersive experiences, brought together leading players such as Bandai Namco, Citywave, Cités Immersives, Hasbro, Dama Dreams, Dedem, Hupalupa, Smiley, QubicaAMF, Pausa, TF1 Licensing, Universal, Walltopia, and Zero Latency VR. Numerous conferences and sessions held over the first two days provided a comprehensive overview of market trends, featuring many exclusive international speakers.

The event has once again proven to be a key platform for identifying trends, forging connections, and showcasing innovations. Participants are already looking forward to the next edition, scheduled to take place from Tuesday, 4 November, to Thursday, 6 November 2025.

Trends in the Commercial Investment Market

The retail real estate market was a focal point of this year’s MAPIC, with a strong emphasis on investors’ perspectives regarding retail market trends and outlooks. Two dedicated sessions delved into analyses from international investors, highlighting their views and strategies in an evolving environment. These sessions revealed an optimistic vision of the resilience of retail as an asset class. The session “Investor Sentiment: Retail Back in the Spotlight in Europe?” featured speakers such as Beatrice de Quinsonas Drouas, Director of Research at BPCE Solutions Immobilières; Mathieu de Mallman, Global Head of Retail and Healthcare at AXA IM ALTS; Eric Decouvelaere, Head of EMEA Urban Destinations at CBRE Investors Management; and Romain Muller, Head of Investment Management Retail at Union Investment. A European study presented by BPCE Solutions Immobilières revealed that, while investment volumes are declining across office, retail, and logistics asset classes, retail has proven the most resilient, with only a 10% drop. Retail investment has been especially driven by the strong performance of the Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish markets, alongside robust results in the UK. The study also highlighted significant disparities in commercial rent prices between countries and cities, though yield rates remained relatively stable, ranging from 3% to 5.50%. BPCE Solutions Immobilières noted that

the retail investment market is undergoing a profound transformation in 2024-2025, characterised by renewed momentum and radically different strategic approaches. There is now a clear distinction between the retail of 2019 and that of 2025. While the previous era equated the opening of retail spaces with guaranteed success, the current landscape is marked by extreme selectivity and a deep understanding of economic dynamics. Investors are returning to the market with growing volumes, particularly in Southeast Europe and the UK, adopting an opportunistic strategy centred around winning concepts.

Looking ahead, the 5-10 year perspective outlines a commercial landscape where only the most highperforming retail spaces will survive. This increasing polarisation underscores the value of well-managed assets. The retail transformation is accompanied by a 4% increase in footfall, with a now indispensable “asset-by-asset” and “country-by-country” approach. Investors understand that success is no longer linked to the size of retail space but requires high-level operational expertise, from capital expenditures to operational expenditures. In this economic

environment, inflation is no longer the primary concern, allowing for reinvention. The retail market of 2025 will become a complex ecosystem where attracting top brands, creating the right concepts, and improving customer experiences are essential. This transformation demands a long-term strategic vision, adaptability, and an in-depth understanding of market changes, transitioning from a focus on expansion to creating value through experience and operational excellence.

Urban Regeneration and Mixed-Use Projects

Rebuilding existing structures and designing for mixeduse functionality have become essential components of international development projects. This year’s MAPIC once again introduced participants to urban regeneration projects where retail serves as a crucial link between different programmatic activities. The Retail and Urban Regeneration Summit highlighted projects such as Brent Cross Town, Entrecampos, Alverca, Grande-Synthe, Diriyah, and Spazio Quadrilatero, demonstrating the centrality of placemaking in project design.

Brent Cross Town is presented as a visionary 180-acre mixed-use development aimed at creating a new neighbourhood in northwest London, to which it will be well-connected. With 50 acres of parks, the project aspires to build a community around four commitments: achieving zero carbon emissions, ensuring excellent connectivity, promoting sports and recreation, and creating a place where everyone can thrive. By 2029, the project is expected to deliver 3,400 homes.

A year after its announcement at MAPIC, Michael Purefoy presented more details about the Entrecampos project in Lisbon. This regeneration project reimagines an entire district, fostering deep connections with the city and its residents. Located on a site that has remained unused for over 20 years, the operator has a historic opportunity to deliver a highly anticipated project. Situated at the heart of the city and extremely well-connected, the 5-hectare site aims to be open and accessible, featuring 17,000 square metres of public spaces and parks celebrating outdoor living. The interdisciplinary team includes two Pritzker Prize-winning architects tasked with developing

seven office buildings spanning 128,000 square metres, three residential buildings covering a total of 28,000 square metres, and 24,000 square metres of retail space. Scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2027, Entrecampos aspires to be Portugal's first Leed Goldcertified district.

The standout project at this year’s event was Diriyah Square in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The sheer scale of this development was barely captured by the displayed model. Located 15 minutes from Riyadh, this 14-square-kilometre urban project draws inspiration from the birthplace of the Kingdom and its historical heritage as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Designed to embody the three pillars of the nation’s strategic vision—a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation—Diriyah Square merges the essence of Al Turaif with modern aspirations, using history to build the future. The development is set to become a luxurious suburb south of Riyadh, integrating museums, schools, hotels, residences, retail spaces, parks, and offices. With a $62 billion investment, 178,000 direct jobs, four metro stations connected to Riyadh, and an ambitious goal of Leed Platinum certification, the project is slated for completion in 2027.

Nhood showcased its Alverca project, located 20 minutes from Lisbon. Developed in response to residents’ needs, this initiative aims to establish a new urban centre. The first phase, completed two weeks ago, focused on revitalising and expanding the shopping gallery, with Leroy Merlin as its anchor tenant. The second phase, scheduled for next year, will include a gym and a municipal administrative and social centre to support citizens with their daily needs.

Praemia and Colliers presented Spazio Quadrilatero in Milan, an ambitious redevelopment of a building in the city’s fashion district. Combining design, efficiency, and aesthetics, the programme aims to attract new brands and operators, ultimately increasing footfall in the area.

Antoine Grollin, CEO of Ceetrus, unveiled Grande-Synthe, the future project from the partnership between Banque des Territoires and Ceetrus. This "New Immo" initiative supports the "New Retail" vision, marking a pivotal moment for Auchan.

During the keynote by Eric Costa, President of Citynove, titled “What if Emotion Was the Ultimate Parameter in the Retail Equation?”, the audience was introduced to a laboratory approach taken by Galeries Lafayette’s real estate arm to analyse and improve customer journeys within its stores. By working with academics and semiologists,

Citynove adopted a near-scientific method to understand retail dynamics, exploring questions such as why we buy fashion, why we leave our homes, and why we press the lift button to close the doors faster. These seemingly trivial behaviours reveal deeper emotional and psychological patterns. Fashion, for instance, reflects our projection of a better future and fulfils a need for optimism.

One example was the Annecy project, which served as a laboratory to design spaces that reduce stress. Within four months, results were clear: customer footfall and conversion rates exceeded expectations, surpassing those of other French stores, excluding Haussmann. Rather than immediately maximising rents, the team prioritised medium-term performance. This approach, rooted in emotional engagement, proved worthwhile, confirming the importance of designing for positive customer experiences.

Brand Expansion in Retail and Food & Beverage

MAPIC serves as a unique platform for retailers to connect with property owners and managers to create dynamic and attractive urban and commercial spaces. To enhance this role, MAPIC launched the International Brand Expansion Observatory, a guide published during the event, listing over twenty international brands with significant expansion plans across France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the UK. The Retail Gallery within the exhibition and the brand pitch sessions allowed participants to engage with emerging brands that will shape the future of retail in the coming months. The French market remains highly dynamic and attractive, with nine of these brands planning expansions in France, while five are French brands targeting international growth. Noteworthy brands include PD Paola, Dune London, Lucid Motors, % Arabica, La Bottega del Caffè, Goiko, Sosandar, DJ Lab, and New Balance.

The conference sessions also provided a platform for brands to share their experiences in international expansion. In the session "Retail Without Frontiers," Salomon and JD Sports illustrated their global development strategies. Salomon, a French brand established in 1947 and originally specialising in ski equipment, has gradually transformed into a multisport brand now under Amer Sports. Pascal Clausse

highlighted the importance of thorough preparation, noting that a poorly prepared brand risks wasting time and money. JD Sports, originating in the UK in 1981 and now operating in 36 countries with 4,450 stores, underscored the need to understand local market dynamics. Both brands prioritise strategic flagship locations in major cities while tailoring their formats to each market.

The keynote session on Food & Beverage expansion featured Alan Francis Honan, VP and Head of International Development at Wingstop, and Arnaud van Coppenolle, Senior Director of International Development at Krispy Kreme. Krispy Kreme aims to become the most beloved sweets brand in the world by leveraging an omnichannel strategy combining company-owned stores, franchises, and convenience outlets. Known for their freshly made, hot doughnuts, the brand has grown from 20 to 40 international markets within three years, with plans to reach 100,000 points of sale globally. Markets are chosen based on criteria such as a substantial middle-class population and demand for convenient, comforting products.

Wingstop aspires to become one of the world's top 10 restaurant brands by focusing on simplicity and

Inclusivity in Retail

Reflecting societal changes, MAPIC 2024 highlighted the increasing importance of inclusivity in retail projects and offerings. This shift provides opportunities to connect with diverse audiences, bridging gaps in accessibility and social exclusion. Inclusive retail fosters unique consumer relationships while demonstrating that business and social conscience can coexist.

One keynote speaker, Didier Roche, founder of Dans le Noir?, shared the success story of his immersive restaurant concept where diners eat in complete darkness, guided by visually impaired servers. Roche emphasised that designing

Innovation and AI in Retail

In a retail world undergoing constant transformation, innovation remains at the forefront. Artificial intelligence (AI), once considered a trend, is now firmly established as a transformative force in customer engagement and operational efficiency. At MAPIC 2024, the roundtable "Retail and Property AI: Optimise, Personalise, Communicate" gathered industry leaders to discuss AI's impact.

Alessandro Zanotti, Managing Director at Accenture Song, highlighted how AI fosters customer innovation and creates new opportunities for enriched experiences on a global scale. Charlotte Journo-Baur, CEO of Wishibam, illustrated how AI enables small businesses to become more agile. Giulia Staffieri, Marketing Director at Leroy Merlin Italy, drew on two decades of experience to demonstrate how AI enhances customer-focused strategies.

Statistics show that 78% of companies have integrated AI into their operations, yet only 40% are experimenting with generative AI. AI’s potential is vast, with predictions indicating a 40% increase in retail productivity. About 34% of tasks can be automated, and an additional 7%

Retail Media: Stores as Media Platforms

The transformation of retail spaces into media platforms is another significant trend highlighted at MAPIC 2024. The session "Turning Stores Into Media Platforms" explored how retail spaces now leverage data-driven strategies to enhance performance. Lee Jackson of JLL and Ricardo Rosa of Sonae Sierra discussed the role of in-store data in optimising customer targeting and campaign effectiveness. Retail media is experiencing exponential growth, valued at $150 billion, and surpassing traditional

digitalisation, with 70% of sales coming from digital channels. With a goal to expand to 10,000 restaurants globally, the brand faces challenges such as inflation, labour shortages, and dependence on chicken wings as a core product. Their franchisee selection process is stringent, combining market data and personal intuition. Alan Francis Honan emphasised the importance of maintaining brand fundamentals while allowing for local adaptations, noting that starting too small in new markets could undermine consumer confidence.

for people with disabilities often creates universally accessible concepts that appeal to all audiences.

The MAPIC Awards also celebrated inclusive retail initiatives. Ingka Centres’ One Drop Store in Wuxi stood out for its creativity and inclusion, offering professional training and workshops for people with disabilities. Free Form Style, an inclusive fashion brand from Spain, was recognised for rethinking garment design to meet the needs of people with disabilities. This brand's collections are sustainably produced, incorporating features like side and back openings, catheter sleeves, and more.

can be optimised using AI. Generative AI applications are revolutionising key areas such as content creation, customer interaction, and personalised recommendations.

AI also redefines communication strategies, enabling hyper-personalised messaging tailored to individual consumer preferences. Tools like conversational AI and advanced chatbots deepen customer relationships while streamlining marketing and operational workflows. These innovations position AI as a catalyst for transformation across the retail and property sectors.

advertising growth rates. Innovative campaigns now integrate gamification elements to drive significant revenue increases, underlining the potential of this emerging field.

MAPIC 2024 demonstrated the retail sector’s adaptability, resilience, and innovation across investment, development, inclusivity, and technological transformation. The event continues to be a pivotal meeting point for industry leaders driving change.

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Meet the Founder

Leading sustainable and health-conscious furniture brand Slow is on a mission to bring a greener way of furniture thinking to the UK. Founder Greig Robinson is driving the shift towards healthier options for customers and their homes. Here, Greig shares more about his vision for an eco-friendly future and how Slow is making waves in innovative, sustainable furniture design.

What inspired you to start Slow, and how has the brand evolved?

Slow was born from a family business in the Yorkshire Dales, originally started by my parents, Sally and Simon, over 30 years ago. Their journey began with Dalesbred, a bespoke furniture company combining Simon’s cabinet-making and Sally’s upholstery skills. The inspiration to evolve Dalesbred into Slow came when I saw firsthand the poor quality

of high-street furniture. My father and I shared a vision of creating a brand committed to longevity and quality, fighting against fast furniture trends. Thus, Slow became a new chapter, focusing on craftsmanship, timeless design, and sustainability.

How does sustainability shape your design and production processes?

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Slow. We are fully committed to natural materials and antifoam principles to reduce VOCs and chemicals in our products. We even power our workshops sustainably, investing in solar panels. Offering both new upholstery and

reupholstery services allows us to extend furniture lifespans and reduce waste. By building furniture that’s made to last and can be reupholstered, we aim to keep our pieces out of incinerators and landfills.

What challenges have you faced building an eco-friendly furniture business?

Building a sustainable business often means pioneering new processes. One challenge has been finding ways to create sofas that are free from flame retardant (FR) chemicals, blending both traditional and modern upholstery techniques. Achieving our standards required significant R&D, from sourcing materials to perfecting

our techniques, but this commitment is essential to maintaining the quality and eco-friendly values that define Slow.

Can you explain your lifetime guarantee and buyback service?

We believe in the longevity of our sofas, so our lifetime guarantee covers the frame. As long as you own a Slow sofa, we’ll repair the frame if needed, though our confidence in its durability suggests it’s unlikely. Our buyback scheme allows us to purchase used sofas at an agreed price, giving the frames a second life. This keeps our furniture in circulation longer, supporting sustainability.

How do you ensure the ethical sourcing of your materials?

Material selection is a rigorous, time-intensive process. We build personal relationships with trusted suppliers who share our values and uphold high standards. Certification

is essential, but we also test materials ourselves to ensure they meet our exacting requirements, balancing quality with environmental responsibility.

What makes Slow furniture stand out from competitors?

Slow stands out by embracing timeless designs, and meticulously selecting natural materials that benefit both our customers and the planet. We’re makers at heart, passionate about delivering pieces that realise our client’s

visions. Unlike many, we don’t chase fleeting trends; instead, we create furniture that transcends them.

How does Slow support a circular economy?

We believe in extending the lifespan of our furniture through reupholstery services and our buyback program. Our products are crafted to be reupholstered rather than replaced, giving them a new lease of life, time and time

again. By encouraging our customers to ‘buy right, buy once,’ we focus on creating durable, enduring pieces that support a more sustainable, circular model.

What can we expect next from Slow - what are your future goals and plans for the brand?

We’re expanding meaningfully, adding new sofa models and designs while upholding our high standards. Our commitment to collaborating with interior designers who share our passion for sustainable interiors remains central to our growth. We aim to not only reduce our

environmental impact but also invest in training the next generation of British makers, ensuring that quality craftsmanship and eco-conscious practices continue to thrive.

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