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Tag: opening

  • Mega MGC Coffee Celebrates Opening of 4000th Store in South Korea: A Decade of Caffeinated Success Story

    Mega MGC Coffee Celebrates Opening of 4000th Store in South Korea: A Decade of Caffeinated Success Story

    Mega MGC Coffee, a prominent coffee chain, has proudly announced the opening of its 4000th outlet in South Korea. This new store is situated at Ilsan Lake Park in Goyang, Gyeonggi province. The achievement marks a decade since the brand set up its initial location in Hongdae.

    A Family Venture

    The franchisee for this new outlet, An Su-hyeon, is no stranger to the brand. Su-hyeon manages nine other outlets for the company and states that the family-run business has ambitions to increase their portfolio to include 30 locations. These plans signal further expansion and growth for the coffee chain.

    Comment from Mega MGC Coffee CEO

    Kim Dae-young, CEO of Mega MGC Coffee, views the successful establishment of 4000 outlets as an affirmation of the brand’s growth in cooperation with its franchisees. He expressed satisfaction in seeing more owners of multiple outlets expand their businesses, attributing it to their trust in the brand.

    Future Developments

    Nhouse, the operator of Mega MGC Coffee, has indicated its intention to continue evolving its menu based on customer preferences. The company also has plans to extend its presence by opening additional outlets in South Korea and abroad.

    The coffee chain, founded in 2015, is well-known for offering affordable coffee, beverages, pastries, and desserts. This focus on value for money and quality produce has contributed significantly to its success and popularity.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Mega MGC Coffee?
    Mega MGC Coffee is a popular coffee chain, known for its affordable and quality coffee, beverages, pastries, and desserts.

    Where has Mega MGC Coffee opened its 4000th outlet?
    Mega MGC Coffee has opened its 4000th outlet at Ilsan Lake Park in the Goyang, Gyeonggi province of South Korea.

    Who runs the new outlet at Ilsan Lake Park?
    The new outlet at Ilsan Lake Park is managed by franchisee An Su-hyeon, who also operates nine other outlets for the brand.

  • Marimekko Unveils Flagship Store In Causeway Bay: A Revitalized Shopping Experience

    Marimekko Unveils Flagship Store In Causeway Bay: A Revitalized Shopping Experience

    Marimekko, the iconic Finnish design company, is globally renowned for its fashion and home decor products featuring vivid, abstract prints designed to spread an ethos of joy and positivity. This lifestyle brand is an embodiment of timeless elegance and a summery sense of joy. If you are drawn to the brand’s vibrant ‘flower power’ aesthetic, make a note of October 16 in your diary. That’s when Marimekko is set to unveil a new flagship store in Causeway Bay. This eagerly awaited launch is significant, as it symbolizes not only a new beginning for Marimekko in Hong Kong but also the company’s dedication to crafting an immersive in-store retail experience that strikes a chord with customers.

    Marimekko’s Return to Causeway Bay

    Marimekko first broke into the Hong Kong market in 2012, opening a store on Leighton Road in Causeway Bay. The forthcoming flagship store, remaining on the same street, represents a sort of homecoming for the brand. However, this is not just a return, but a stunning transformation; a fresh design and expanded offerings promise a completely reimagined Marimekko experience for its Hong Kong-based fans. Moreover, the store’s façade, centered around Marimekko’s well-known ‘Unikko’ print, will be unmissable, serving to highlight the brand’s printmaking legacy. Upon entering the shop, customers will feel as though they’ve been transported to Marimekko’s textile printing factory in Helsinki, with the striking interior design inspired by the Finnish workshop.

    What to Expect from the New Flagship

    Marimekko fans can anticipate a carefully curated collection of products, including clothing, accessories, home furnishings, and even printed fabrics — all emblazoned with the brand’s signature prints. Items featuring the ‘Unikko’ design are sure to be a hit, but the bold ‘Kivet’ and sleek ‘Tiiliskivi’ prints are expected to be crowd pleasers as well.

    At present, Marimekko has six retail sites in Hong Kong, including an outlet shop at Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung, so the new Leighton Road flagship will find itself in good company. Furthermore, according to a Marimekko Instagram post, eligible purchases will be accompanied by a complimentary Marimekko tote bag — an incentive that is sure to entice shoppers!

    Questions & Answers

    When did Marimekko first enter the Hong Kong market?
    Marimekko first entered the Hong Kong market in 2012, with a store on Leighton Road in Causeway Bay.

    What’s special about the new flagship store in Causeway Bay?
    The new flagship store represents a homecoming for Marimekko. It features a completely new design and an expanded range of offerings, promising a unique Marimekko experience for fans in Hong Kong.

    What can customers expect from the new Marimekko store?
    Customers can look forward to a carefully curated selection of products, including clothing, accessories, home goods, and printed fabrics, all featuring the brand’s signature prints.

  • OH!SOME Unveils Exciting First Store in Singapore!

    OH!SOME Unveils Exciting First Store in Singapore!

    Lifestyle retail brand OH!SOME has made waves by launching its first Singapore store in Suntec City Mall, bringing a fresh and engaging shopping experience to local consumers. Known for its chic and globally-curated selections, the store unveils a unique layout divided into four captivating themed zones designed to excite and inspire.

    Anime Collectibles Zone: A Fan’s Paradise

    The Anime Collectibles Zone is the crown jewel, featuring an array of merchandise from beloved series like Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, Haikyu!!, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Shoppers can explore an impressive collection of collectible pins, blind boxes, and stylish ita-bags that will make any otaku’s heart race.

    Travel Essentials: Pack Like a Pro

    Heading out? The Travel Zone has you covered with essentials that simplify packing. From ergonomic neck pillows to UV-protective sunscreens and compact toiletries, this zone ensures you’re prepared for your next adventure without the fuss.

    Creative Gifting: Thoughtful Surprises Await

    The Gifting Zone offers a delightful selection for those looking for something special. With options like whimsical Disney-themed floral arrangements and Crayon Shinchan collectibles—complete with stylish gift wrapping and greeting cards—this corner takes the guesswork out of gifting.

    DIY Dreams: Crafting Made Easy

    For craft enthusiasts, the DIY Zone is a treasure trove filled with inspirational materials sourced from Japan, Korea, and China. From wool felting kits to modeling clay and journaling supplies, this zone invites shoppers to unleash their creativity.

    As if that weren’t enough, visitors will also discover exclusive Disney merchandise featuring beloved characters such as Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, and Toy Story’s Buzz and Woody, along with some early-release Lilo & Stitch collectibles to complete the magical experience.

    With over 110 outlets across the region, OH!SOME is making a significant splash in Singapore, gearing up to open a second store at TAMPINES 1 on May 23. This brand is not just about shopping; it’s about creating memorable experiences that resonate with the vibrant local culture. Who knows, you might just bump into your favorite anime character while browsing!

    Questions & Answers

    What types of products can shoppers find in the Anime Collectibles Zone?
    Shoppers can discover merchandise from popular anime series like Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan, including collectible pins, blind boxes, and ita-bags.

    What unique items are available in the Travel Zone?
    The Travel Zone features practical items like ergonomic neck pillows, UV-protective sunscreens, and compact toiletries to simplify travel packing.

    When is the second OH!SOME store set to open in Singapore?
    The second store is scheduled to open at TAMPINES 1 on May 23, further extending OH!SOME’s reach in the city.

  • Pomelo Fashion to Celebrate Exciting Store Opening in Laos

    Pomelo Fashion to Celebrate Exciting Store Opening in Laos

    In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, companies are taking bold steps to expand their footprint in response to surging consumer demand. This trend highlights the dynamic nature of today’s retail environment, where adaptability and innovation are key.

    Strong Growth in Consumer Trends
    Recent industry reports indicate that consumer spending is on the rise, with retail sectors such as e-commerce and health & wellness experiencing particularly robust growth. This surge is prompting brands to rethink their market strategies. Companies like XYZ Retail are leading the charge, implementing new initiatives to cater to this growing appetite.

    Strategic Brand Expansion
    XYZ Retail has announced plans to broaden its geographical presence by opening new stores in key metropolitan areas. This strategic move not only aims to capture a larger market share but also seeks to enhance customer engagement. By aligning their offerings with local preferences, XYZ Retail is poised to strengthen brand loyalty across diverse consumer segments.

    Leveraging Digital Platforms
    Additionally, many brands are recognizing the importance of digital platforms in driving sales. The integration of e-commerce with traditional retail operations is becoming standard practice, enabling companies to reach consumers in more efficient ways. This digital-first approach is expected to revolutionize customer experiences, as brands strive to meet the expectations of tech-savvy shoppers.

    The Impact on the Retail Sector
    The current trajectory of brand expansion and innovation is set to reshape the retail sector significantly. As companies amplify their efforts to meet evolving consumer preferences, shoppers can anticipate an increasingly diverse range of products and services. This transformation has the potential not only to boost the variety available to consumers but also to create a more competitive marketplace.

    Questions & Answers

     

    1. What are the current trends in consumer spending? Consumer spending is increasing, particularly in sectors like e-commerce and health & wellness, prompting brands to adapt their strategies.

    2. How is XYZ Retail expanding its presence? XYZ Retail is opening new stores in strategic urban locations to better engage with customers and capture more market share.

    3. What role does digital integration play in retail evolution? Brands are increasingly integrating e-commerce with traditional retail to enhance customer experiences and meet the demands of tech-savvy consumers.

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  • Watsons opens first Qatar store at Doha Festival City

    Watsons opens first Qatar store at Doha Festival City

    The new addition is Watsons first entry into Qatar at Doha Festival City, the destination for beauty shoppers in the country, just opened in January 2022. This follows the new store opening in Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and Al Wahda Mall in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Mall of Dhahra in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

    Skin Expert for Beauty Enthusiasts
    Jonathan Watts, General Manager of Watsons GCC at Al-Futtaim, commented on the latest new door, “Watsons signed a franchise agreement with Al-Futtaim in early 2020 with the vision to bring fashionable and affordable beauty and lifestyle products to customers in the GCC region. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic interruption, these stores were opened in less than 24 months.

    “Qatar is a truly vibrant and unique market. While customers are getting more and more sophisticated about beauty and personal care, Watsons as the skin expert is delighted to bring our customers exclusive international brands. The excitement is overwhelming as customers have been eagerly waiting for Watsons to expand across the GCC via our O+O (Offline plus Online) retail model, allowing beauty lovers of all generations to shop offline and online.”

    With the purpose to inspire customers to “LOOK GOOD, DO GOOD, FEEL GREAT”, Watsons as a beauty authority is bringing over 200 brands from around the world, offering makeup, skincare, haircare to personal care. Close to half of its products are exclusive at Watsons, including brands from the UK, France, Japan, and Korea. Some of the top pick brands include Deweytree, Holika Holika, Leaders, Superdrug, Target Pro by Watsons, and more.

    Now in Qatar, customers have the chance to explore the nearly 3,000 sq. ft. beauty-land with designated zones like Natural & Clean Beauty which features the Sustainable Choices products, and an open makeup area so that customers can try out different looks and play around with a wide range of latest and trendiest colour cosmetics. Follow @WatsonsGCC on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on exclusive deals and promotion offers all year round.

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  • Apple to opens online sales in India

    Apple to opens online sales in India

    Tech giant Apple will launch an e-commerce store in India next month, according to a report by Bloomberg News.

    The firm will be timing its launch to begin trading in time for India’s busiest spending season, the Diwali festival. It follows CEO Tim Cook’s statement several months ago that Apple will start retailing within the territory next year.

    The firm’s smartphones are currently retailed via third parties within India, including existing online channels under Amazon and Walmart-owned Flipkart.

    Roughly a third of India’s 1 billion wireless subscribers do not use smartphones, representing a huge potential market for industry players in a region offering low pay rates to workers in manufacturing.

    A raft of Apple products are already being produced in southern India.

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  • Mr DIY revives IPO plan, launches new format

    Mr DIY revives IPO plan, launches new format

    Mr DIY Group has revived plans for a US$500 million IPO following the postponement in March due to the coronavirus.

    The deal, which could be the largest Malaysian IPO in four years, is now pending the enthusiasm of potential investors and could be scheduled for October. It would be singularly responsible for lifting the country’s beleaguered equity capital market, floundering at just $70.7 million worth of IPOs thus far this year.

    Mr DIY saw record sales in May and June following the partial lifting of Malaysia’s movement restriction order.

    The firm has recently launched its new dollar store concept in the territory, selling snacks, drinks and food items for either RM2 or RM5, while its core business is now trading in Vietnam through a franchise partner, with two stores already in business and another under construction in Ho Chi Minh City’s Estella Place, scheduled to open in October.

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  • Opening date revealed for Apple Thailand’s second Bangkok store

    Opening date revealed for Apple Thailand’s second Bangkok store

    Apple Thailand’s second retail store in Bangkok will open at the CentralWorld shopping center this week. A reliable local source says the opening date is scheduled for Friday, July 31. However, Apple’s Thai website has posted a colorful version of the brand’s logo with Thai lettering inside, teasing that the Apple CentralWorld store is “coming soon”.

    The website also features a tagline ‘Intersection of the creative idea and inspiration’, which refers to the Ratchaprasong intersection where Apple’s new space is located.

    Earlier this year, photos of the Apple Thailand’s second store were leaked on Twitter, showing a preview of what the store will look like. Apple Thailand’s second store features a unique design with a whirling cylinder of glass and curved timber radiating in concentric circles. It is located on part of a large courtyard outside the mall.

    The Apple CentralWorld store reflects the brand’s confidence in the Thai market, despite the Covid-19 situation in the country.

    Apple Thailand opened its first store at the IconSiam shopping center in Bangkok in November 2018.

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  • AS Watson opens its 3800th Watsons store in China

    AS Watson opens its 3800th Watsons store in China

    AS Watson Group is opening its 3800th Watsons store in China.

    The new outlet is located in Kunming, the largest city in Yunnan Province, and is designed to provide one-on-one beauty services to customers supported by the fully integrated digital experience.

    “Our extensive physical store network provides unique touchpoints in over 470 cities in China, connecting us to customers through the in-store experience and digital engagement,” said AS Watson (Asia & Europe) CEO Malina Ngai. “All stores provide 30-minute ‘click-and-collect’ service and 60-minute ‘click-and-delivery’ service which are widely used and appreciated by customers. Including China, this year AS Watson Group is on plan to open 1300 new stores globally. That is, on average one new store every seven hours.”

    The new Watsons store in China, located in Living Mall of Yunnan, uses the latest retail technologies to combine online and offline (O+O) platforms. The new more than 2000sqft store is committed to providing customers with an engaging shopping experience through a wide range of Watsons offerings.

    “Building customer connectivity with our 65 million loyal members in Mainland China plays a vital role in our growth in this vibrant market,” said Watsons China CEO Kulvinder Birring. “On top of that, we have launched our Elite Card VIP program to ensure our highest-spending members enjoy the most privileged service … Going forward, Watsons China will continue to enh

  • Tesco Malaysia marks 60-store milestone in country

    Tesco Malaysia marks 60-store milestone in country

    Tesco Malaysia has opened its 60th store. The more-than 2000sqft store at Wangsa Walk is the retailer’s largest in the country, with recent changes in regulations reducing costs for an operation of this size and opening the path for similar formats going forward.

    “In providing a 2000sqft superstore with a targeted range of our famous value for money pricing, we are providing convenience and value for money to the customers in this area who were not able to enjoy all these before,” said Tesco Malaysia CEO Paul Ritchie as reported in the New Straits Times.

    “Going forward, we plan to keep expanding in Malaysia within this format as it believes that there is still a lot of growth opportunities in this country.”

    Tesco Malaysia has been operating for 17 years.

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  • H&M opening fourth retail store in Auckland

    H&M opening fourth retail store in Auckland

    Swedish fashion giant H&M announced it will open its fourth store in Auckland at Westfield Newmarket on December 12.

    The 2300sqm store, the retailer’s ninth store in New Zealand, will have two levels and will feature a range of apparel and accessories for men, women, youth, kids and baby, as well as the retailer’s home concept.

    “We are thrilled to be a part of the much-anticipated Westfield Newmarket.” said Daniel Lattemann, Country Sales manager for H&M New Zealand.

    Lettemann said they are also delighted to be able to finally offer a second Auckland location for their H&M home concept.

    “We have seen such a demand since launching the concept in our Commercial Bay store last year,” he said.

    According to H&M, recruitment for approximately 50 employees is underway.

    The fashion retailer, which entered the New Zealand market in 2016, now has seven stores nationwide located in Sylvia Park, Commercial Bay, and Botany Town Centre in Auckland, The Crossing in Christchurch, Queensgate in Wellington, Tauranga Crossing, and Chartwell Shopping Centre in Hamilton.

    The recently announced store opening is the eighth and is set to open in Westfield Riccarton on November 7, 2019.

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  • Re:store store aims to change the way we shop

    Re:store store aims to change the way we shop

    San Francisco-based retail space and collaboration hub Re:store has been launched to help customers discover “Insta-famous” products into a tangible and immersive experience.

    By bringing niche brands closer to their customers and fostering community-based innovation, the Sequoia-backed startup is an attempt to change not just how we shop, but how we engage with brands, ideas, and the people inspiring them.

    “Creating an authentic connection between customers and brands is a fundamental building block of a dynamic shopping experience,” said creative entrepreneur Selene Cruz. “Re:store is poised to make scroll-to-stroll the new normal.”

    Partnering with a team of experienced curators, including former Refinery29 senior fashion market editor Alyssa Coscarelli and influencer “it girl” Vivid Wu, Re:store hand-picked 70 coveted direct-to-consumer brands as its debut partners, leaving more than 2000 other labels on the waitlist for future consideration. Among those featured at launch were CFDA award winner Mansur Gavriel, sustainability-minded fashion icon Sezane, and cult brand & Other Stories, with design ateliers in Paris, Stockholm and LA.

    Each startup brand receives its own dedicated area within the three-level 4200sqft space, located on the same San Francisco retail block as Fendi and Hermes, and fashion-meets-tech brands Warby Parker, Rent the Runway and Cuyana. Re:store’s interior was designed by Robert Storey of Storey Studio (Nike, Everlane, Gentle Monster) to reflect a shifting colors Cape, referencing San Francisco’s vibrant culture and “dreamy sky”.

    Re:store is not designed for the passive shopper; it’s a community space where customers can interact personally with brand leaders and founders through services such as feminist-focused Lacquerbar manicure pop-in, or entrepreneurial creativity installations like the Living Wall – a fashionable take on a Post-it ideation process.

    Re:store also seamlessly connects a digital mindset with the analog world. Through technology touchpoints, customers can communicate directly with brands, attaining deeper knowledge about their favorite items while sharing insights that can influence future products.

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  • The North Face reveals future plans with NY opening

    The North Face reveals future plans with NY opening

    Activewear label The North Face has initiated its global retail strategy with the opening of a new store in Manhattan’s SoHo neighbourhood last Friday.

    The brand will transform its existing locations to create a stronger connection with consumers and evolve The North Face retail environment into a space that feels more like the brand and less like a store.

    The 8000sqft venue is the first of a number of planned updates to the brand’s locations globally, including Seattle and Cherry Hill, NJ in the coming weeks, as well as locations in Europe later this autumn. The North Face is aiming to refresh the majority of its fleet of stores by the end of 2024.

    The North Face set out to design a store to reflect its brand positioning as premium, long-lasting and sustainably built. The SoHo location and all new stores moving forward will feature FSC certified reclaimed wood, steel, granite and low VOC paints. The environments are purposefully designed for longevity and to avoid the need for wasteful refurbishing throughout the years.

    “Our stores will continue to offer a convenient and seamless shopping experience, but it is no longer the sole mission of the store,” said VP of direct to consumer Mark Parker.

    “We’re now focused on creating an environment that highlights our heritage and allows consumers to deeply connect with the brand as they prepare for their own exploration, wherever it may be.”

    Elements of the new space include a museum-like archive of The North Face athlete expeditions and significant products, a signature half dome scent, and a team of “guides”, equipped to offer gear and exploration recommendations tailored to local adventure.

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  • Large queues for Sephora store opening

    Large queues for Sephora store opening

    After much anticipation, Sephora’s first New Zealand store opened last weekend on Queen Street in Auckland, with hundreds of Kiwis lining up for the launch.

    Many would-be beauty-buyers camped out overnight to ensure they were the first into the store, which officially opened at 7am on Saturday, July 20.

    Sephora spent an estimated $5 million to fit out the store, which was announced in early May after months of speculation.

    The launch is part of a larger expansion into the Asia-Pacific region, which will see the make-up retailer set up shop in Hong Kong and Korea.

    “We believe that New Zealand will be a key market in building Sephora as the most loved beauty community in Asia, and the world,” said president of Sephora Asia Benjamin Vuchot.

    “This expansion to a new market will allow Sephora to continue to amplify global beauty trends locally, elevate what our clients expect of the in-store experience and bring fresh, digital touch points to the retail environment to create a virtual, client-centric cycle.”

    In the lead-up to launch, Sephora toured the country in a “Beauty Bus”, giving remote customers a chance to trial its products before the local offering officially went online.

    However, not everyone was pleased with the launch. The New Zealand Maori Council called for the Government to investigate the cosmetics company after they were “caught dumping hundreds and thousands of waste paper products embedded with cosmetic chemicals down the drains”.

    “And all, according to a spokesperson for Sephora New Zealand, with the permission of the Auckland Council,” New Zealand Maori Council executive director Matthew Tukaki said.

    “As Maori we consider ourselves as protectors of our whenua and our water ways and I will be damned if I am going to standby and allow Auckland City Council to grant a license for this company to dump their waste directly into our system.”

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  • Don Quijote Hong Kong opens first store

    Don Quijote Hong Kong opens first store

    Don Quijote Hong Kong has opened its first store, in Mira Mall at Tsim Sha Tsui.

    The Japanese bargain retailer will sell a full range of discount merchandise as in Japan, as well as ready-to-eat meals and Japanese specialty products.

    Regional operator Pan Pacific International Holdings, which has three stores in Singapore and also plans to make its Thai debut in Bangkok this year, has leased a 15,000sqft space at the mall. The store is the sixth in its regional network, which also trade under the Don Don Donki brand. It has operated in Singapore since 2017, and has close to 40 stores in the US.

    The company is hoping to target Mainland Chinese tourists with its distinctively Japanese product range.

    “Don Quijote’s Tsim Sha Tsui location can attract mainland tourists who travel via the high-speed rail and mega bridge,” said senior director and head of retail services at Knight Frank Helen Mak. “Instead of shopping for luxury items, these same-day visitors usually spend money on cosmetics, health care items and food, products that are most celebrated at [Don Quijote].”

    Besides its general merchandise and fresh food offer, the Don Quijote Hong Kong store features a cafe.