Uniqlo Canada stores about to launch

Japanese lifestyle retailer Uniqlo Canada is close to opening its first two stores, in Toronto.

Uniqlo Canada COO Yasuhiro Hayashi says the autumn collection to feature at the stores has special technology to provide warmth in Canada’s icy winter. The brand’s Heattech innerwear features moisture-wicking fabric that retains heat, and also has anti-odour properties.

Women’s and men’s collections range from casual to dressy, including a variety of cashmere sweaters as well as lightweight down jackets and vests.

Uniqlo’s first Canadian store will open in late September or early October at CF Toronto Eaton Centre. Between fashion retailers Nordstrom (opening on September 16) and H&M, which has had a major expansion, the Uniqlo store will cover about 28,000 sqft (2600 sqm) over two levels.

Uniqlo’s second Canadian store will open at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in October, in a new $331 million 300,000 sqft wing anchored by Nordstrom. Uniqlo will occupy about 24,000 sqft over two levels and be a neighbour with fellow Japanese lifestyle retailer Muji.

Hayashi says Uniqlo’s Canadian store expansion will be gradual, with the company seeking to create brand recognition before moving into new markets.

Uniqlo’s Canadian broker, Jeff Berkowitz of Aurora Realty Consultants, says Toronto was picked as the brand’s introductory market, and he is now looking real-estate opportunities in western Canada.

Retail consultancy HRD Advisory president Farla Efros says she thinks Uniqlo will be a big success in Canada as it fills a void in the retail landscape between upscale boutiques and fast-fashion.

Meanwhile in Japan, Uniqlo’s same-store sales last month increased by 4.5 per cent year-on-year while own-store sales grew 4.7 per cent. Total sales, including online, rose 6 per cent. The company attributes the increases to higher temperatures this year.