Muji next expansion plan
In this article (4)
Japanese lifestyle clothing and accessories brand Muji Canada is expected to expand to Vancouver next year.
Known for its minimalist approach, Muji already has three stores in Toronto. It has about 300 stores outside Japan.
Vancouver’s retail sector continues to outperform other Canadian markets with annual sales-per-square-foot at more than C$1000 (US$762). Toronto is second at about C$860.
“Vancouver is a very young retail market and many brands have not yet opened street stores,” says real-estate group CBRE executive VP for retail in Vancouver Mario Negris. “We anticipate a vast number of new entrants into the downtown retail landscape.”
Most brands entering Canada have their first outlets at Toronto’s Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Eaton Centre, says the Vancouver Sun. This is because of Vancouver’s relative lack of space.
Brands such as Forever 21 and Victoria’s Secret actually made their Canadian debut in Alberta, while Vancouver is the preferred entry point for luxury brands such as Berluti, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Rolex and St Laurent.
Other brands reportedly lining up to open in Vancouver next year include coffee boutique Nespresso and H&M’s Cos brand.
Questions & Answers
Q.Why is Muji Canada choosing Vancouver for its next expansion, given it already has stores in Toronto?
Why is Muji Canada choosing Vancouver for its next expansion, given it already has stores in Toronto?
Vancouver's retail sector outperforms other Canadian markets in annual sales-per-square-foot. The city is also considered a young retail market with potential for new street stores, according to CBRE's executive VP for retail in Vancouver.
Q.What is the typical entry strategy for international brands first opening stores in Canada?
What is the typical entry strategy for international brands first opening stores in Canada?
Most brands entering Canada usually open their first outlets in Toronto's Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Eaton Centre. This is often due to Vancouver's relative lack of available retail space for initial openings.
Q.Are there other brands planning to open stores in Vancouver next year, besides Muji Canada?
Are there other brands planning to open stores in Vancouver next year, besides Muji Canada?
Yes, other brands reportedly planning to open in Vancouver next year include the coffee boutique Nespresso. H&M's Cos brand is also mentioned as lining up for a Vancouver opening in the coming year.
Reader pulse
Is Vancouver the right next move for Muji Canada?
19,236 votes so far