Uniqlo renovating ‘milestone’ store
Uniqlo is in the final stages of an extensive makeover of its first-ever store in New York City.
Located in Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood, the 10-year-old, 36,000-sq.-ft. store is being redone to the theme of "a new Tokyo in Soho." Scheduled to unveil its new look on Sept. 2, the store was the chain’s first global flagship. Hiroshi Taki, Uniqlo U.S.A. CEO, described it as “an important milestone in the company's plans to expand internationally.”
“During the past 10 years, Soho has evolved as an important hub of design, creativity and art, and Uniqlo too has grown in the community,” he said. “'A New Tokyo in Soho' symbolizes a celebration of our first ten years and our commitment to deepen our roots in the community over many years to come. By engaging with the neighborhood in new and exciting ways, we wish to contribute to the next phase of Soho's growth. “
The renovated store will feature multiple shop-in-shop areas, each telling a story that highlights the company's passion for innovation. The shop promoting performance items such as its “Ultra Light Down” will focus on functionality, while another will celebrate the art of design, emphasizing the care and attention the brand dedicates to fabrics like cashmere.
A new shop will bring Japanese urban style together with Soho street style, through classic items like denim and oxford shirts. In addition, it will present the best of Japanese styling through a special partnership with Popeye magazine, Japan's iconic men's fashion and lifestyle publication.
The store's mezzanine level will work as an exhibition space, evoking images of a Soho artist's loft and featuring products like SPRZ NY (Surprise New York), a collaboration between Uniqlo and MoMA. Uniqlo Soho will also partner with local stores and restaurants, and the company will extend its relationships with local non-profit organizations.
Renovation work at the store began in July. The store will close from Aug. 22 and will re-open to customers on Sept. 2.
Tokyo-based Uniqlo operates some 1,700 stores around the world, with four locations in New York City.