Under Armour brand launches first retail theater specialty store in Shanghai

Under Armour has opened its first retail theater specialty store at the Jing An Kerry Centre in Shanghai, China. The store features a multi-dimensional short film that depicts athletes who use the brand.



Founder and CEO Kevin Plank and Under Armour athlete Michael Phelps were on hand to host the grand opening event.



"Wherever we go around the globe, we will lead first with our Story and bring the people into the best Under Armour experience possible before we ask them to try our performance apparel and footwear," said Plank. "We believe in the power of storytelling and our ability to tell provocative and relevant stories will serve as a catalyst for our international growth. For many athletes in China this will be their introduction to our brand. By offering this exclusive experience and bringing to life what it means to be an athlete, this is our way to give back to athletes in China and build meaningful relationships that will last for years to come."



Shot with 360-degree camera technology and displayed on a 270-degree screen, the short film combines the high energy and bold composition of the brand's advertising with its commitment to tell authentic athlete stories. The film, hosted by Phelps, uses a series of vignettes to depict different moments that define the will of an athlete including a training session with NBA star Brandon Jennings, rooftop yoga in Shanghai and the exhilaration of running out onto the pitch before a match at White Hart Lane, home of Tottenham Hotspur.



"It's exciting to be part of this experience designed to empower Chinese athletes," said Phelps. "The passion and energy of Under Armour comes to life through this short film and the message will motivate Chinese athletes to find their will."



After the short film ends, performance trainers guide guests to a separate section of the store featuring a limited selection of the brand's footwear and apparel including the new UA Speedform RC running shoe.



Under Armour a leading developer, marketer, and distributor of branded performance apparel, footwear, and accessories. The brand continues to increase its global presence through strategic expansion in key international markets, including Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The brand has opened six Under Armour specialty stores on Mainland China in the past two years and one in Taiwan. Additionally, the brand launched in Hong Kong this past July through a partnership with leading retail chain GigaSports.