More Than a Transaction: Reaching Consumers Through Meaningful Experiences

Cadillac House. Photo: Eric Laignel.

The need for speed? I get it. We’re so busy with today’s pace of modern life that we typically look for the easiest solutions. With shopping, there’s more opportunity and acceptance for us to buy online and make our lives easier. But there is an inherent drawback to speed and convenience – a lack of the personal experience. Sure, flying over the Rocky Mountains at 500 miles per hour is efficient, but it’s not a great way to experience the beauty of a golden aspen grove, or the tingling sensation from dipping your toes into an ice-cold stream.

Click to read more ...

The New Era of Food Halls

City Point Brooklyn - Food Hall Study images.

In 2010, an unused basement space at the Plaza Hotel in New York City was converted into a diverse specialty food center with engaging counter seats. With its popularity and success, the food hall began to take off. Today, there are hundreds of food halls across the United States with about 15 more planned or in construction as of this year.

Click to read more ...

The New Automotive Model

Citroën C42 showroom, Paris.

On a recent visit to Paris, while strolling down the Champs-Élysées checking out the latest retail shops, the last thing on my mind was cars. But, when I stumbled across the Citroën C42 showroom, I was intrigued. With all the retailers vying for customers’ attention along the prestigious avenue, this building certainly stood out. Right off the bat, the faceted glass façade with light bouncing off the multi-colored panes commands one’s attention. It brings to mind movement, as in driving. (Duh.)

Click to read more ...

Retail Revival: From High Street to Online

Zara, a successful store in the bricks-and-mortar store in the digital age?

Some (notably me) love the idea of shopping. I often head to Oxford Street with hope in my heart that I’ll find exactly what I am looking for, in the right size, the right colour and the right style. Is that too much to ask? But reality slowly starts to set in as I fight through the crowds, and eventually I leave disappointed as I fail to find that perfect item.

Click to read more ...

Solving the Content Conundrum

Cadillac House. Image © Gensler.

As the retail landscape continues to evolve, brick-and-mortar stores seek to provide new experiences that will lure consumers away from their smart phones, and inevitably towards the cashwrap. Our clients are always in search of that “wow” moment and, in turn, so are we. This often results in a heightened sense of retail theater, with technology and digital media taking the front seat.

Click to read more ...