Entertainment Tie-ins / Licensing

Long dependent on low prices to draw customers to stores, Walmart is trying a new traffic-boosting tactic: fun.

Fans of Harley-Davidson can immerse themselves in the brand at the new “1903—A Harley Davidson Cafe” in downtown Toronto.   Named for the year the company  was founded, the 4,200-sq.-ft. café features a biker-themed décor inspired by the history of the 114-year-old brand. Folks who have never hopped on a Harley can get a taste of the experience by taking a test ride on the JumpStart ride simulator.  

Storytelling elements provide an immersive brand experience at Ugg’s new global store concept, at Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The brand’s Californian roots, connections to nature and modernist vibe all come into play in the 2,828-sq.-ft. space, which has a relaxed, soothing ambience.

A popular goose from up north is about to nest in two high-profile locations.  

Canada Goose, best known for its signature — and pricey — goose-down jacket with Arctic Circle logo and fur-trimmed hood, will open its first two freestanding stores this fall. The flagship locations are set to open at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto, and in downtown Manhattan, in SoHo.

Retail has been the foundation of shopping centers throughout their existence, but new entertainment concepts are making inroads in traditional retail venues.
 

A 60,000-sq.-ft. Crayola Experience has opened at Mall of America, giving the massive shopping center yet another experiential component to generate traffic.
 
The Crayola Experience is a family attraction that features 25 hands-on activities inspired by Crayola products and technologies and there is also The Crayola Store offering the world's largest selection of Crayola products and unique souvenirs.
 

The Disney Springs collection of retail and entertainment offerings in Lake Buena Vista, FL is home to the newest UGG brand flagship store.

Ikea Canada is opening in the heart of downtown Toronto—in the form of a food focused pop-up shop that will be open from May 13 to May 26. More than 50 Ikea products will be available for purchase, including both household accessories and food items.