Retail giant Nordstrom has confirmed with Business in Vancouver that its locations in Vancouver and Toronto will be flagship stores.
Retail analyst and Retail Insider Media Ltd. owner Craig Patterson said making these stores flagship locations will have many implications in terms of their offerings.
“[It could have] a few more amenities, like probably some more food and restaurant options than other stores, and they may also include other add-ons or amenities,” Patterson said.
“They may have a few more upscale brands and they may actually do ‘shop-in’ stores, or boutiques.”
Patterson said these boutiques could include labels such as Prada or Gucci, and gave the example of a Chrisian Louboutin shop-in store in Nordstrom’s Chicago location.
Some American locations have spas and other luxury amenities, he said, but there is no indication as to whether or not these will be available in any Canadian locations.
The 230,000-square-foot Vancouver location is set to open in September in Pacific Centre downtown. Toronto’s flagship, set to open in 2016, will be located at the Toronto Eaton Centre.
The luxury market is expanding rapidly in Vancouver. Yesterday, luxury chain Moncler confirmed it would be opening a store in the city. Last month, Holt Renfrew confirmed its plans to expand its Vancouver flagship location and open a restaurant. Prada and David Yurman have also been looking at space downtown.
- With files from Glen Korstrom
