STORE SPACES

New York -- British retailer Marks & Spencer takes a giant leap forward in its goal of becoming a multichannel leader with the opening of its innovative new concept store in Amsterdam. The centerpiece of the 5,000-sq.-ft. space — which marks M&S’ return to the Netherlands after a 10-year absence — is an “E-Boutique” dedicated to womenswear. The shop features what the retailer calls “the world’s first virtual rail,” a display that seamlessly integrates digital rails with physical rails of clothing samples.

New York -- Ikea has officially plugged-in the solar energy system installed at its store in Stoughton, Mass. The 118,000-sq.-ft. array consists of a 590.8-kW (DC) system, built with 4,220 laminated panels. It will produce approximately 695,000 kWh of clean electricity annually, the equivalent of reducing 479 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 94 cars or powering 60 homes yearly (calculating clean energy equivalents).  

San Diego, Calif. -- Parametric Sound Corp. announced that Build-A-Bear Workshop  will include the company's directed-sound product, HyperSound, in an additional 20-25 newly designed stores that it plans to open across North America this year. The stores have received rave reviews since the retailer unveiled its new interactive design in six locations in the fall of 2012.

HyperSound immerses listeners in a robust 3D audio experience from just two speakers

Memphis -- Specialty restaurant operator Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is launching a store remodeling initiative that will include more than 20 corporate locations in the first half of 2013 and then expand to franchise locations.

The remodel package, designed by Louis & Partners Design, will encompass external and internal changes. Perkins operates 416 restaurants in 34 states and Canada.

New York -- A Wednesday report by Bloomberg said that Apple plans to double its number of retail stores in China over the next two years to help offset slowing growth worldwide.

New York -- Ann Inc. said Monday it has already surpassed its 2015 emission goal by reducing its carbon footprint by 8% per square foot.

The parent of Ann Taylor and Loft has now upped its objective, setting a new goal of reducing emissions per square foot by 30% by 2015.

The to-date reductions in carbon emissions were achieved through the implementation of key programs ranging from the installation of in-store energy-efficient lighting to behavioral change campaigns for associates.

Toronto -- Holt Renfrew will open a flagship store in spring 2016 at Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga. The store, planned at approximately 120,000 sq.-ft., is part of the company's aggressive growth plan, which will result in a 40% expansion of the total square footage of Holt Renfrew's network.

In addition to the new Square One site, a number of Holt Renfrew stores will be renovated and expanded, with some completely rebuilt.