Store Systems

Google has “popped up” in the SoHo section of downtown Manhattan with a temporary store that is all about experience.   The outpost, called "Made by Google,” is designed as a showcase for the company’s expanding line of electronic devices, and give visitors a chance to try out and experience its latest devices. The store does not sell any products, however. For that, customers will have to shop online or go to Best Buy.  

Brands and retailers are not doing a good job in keeping up with consumer expectations regarding mobile.  

A German brand known for its high-quality headphones had dropped anchor in the United States.      Sennheiser has opened a pop-up, in the SoHo section of downtown Manhattan, that is designed to let visitors try out its products firsthand.      The brand is also set to open a permanent retail space, at the Westfield World Trade Center in Manhattan, in late October. It will serve as a showroom and not sell product (product is sold at the pop-up, however).  

The North Face is targeted urban adventurers at its new global flagship on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue.   The two-level, 20,000-sq.-ft. store offers an immersive brand experience that includes an interactive climbing wall, community seating and a custom embroidery service called “Lot, Stock and Barrel” that allows shoppers to personalize garments by selecting from 20 designs.   

Online payment security is a top concern for merchants and consumers — but shoppers are leading the charge when it comes to protection.  

Serena & Lily continue to grow their fledgling store portfolio.   The upscale California-based brand, which started out as catalog company, will open its fifth retail location, at Lido Marina Village, Newport, California, on Saturday, Oct. 22.      

On the heels of Golfsmith and The Sports Authority declaring bankruptcy, PGA Tour Superstore is picking up momentum and opening stores.     The privately held chain recently acquired a Sports Authority location in Glendale, Arizona, which it will reopen under its own banner in January 2017. PGA Tour is also planning new stores in Hilton Head, South Carolina, and in Jacksonville, Florida, with both opening in 2017.  

Saks Fifth Avenue has opened its first standalone store dedicated exclusively to footwear.