Banana Republic’s flagship store coming soon

Gap Inc. announced plans to open its first Banana Republic store in France in Paris in early December 2011. Synonymous with culture, quality, heritage and style, the store will be located on Avenue des Champs Élysées, one of the most popular international shopping destinations in the world.

“Following the success of our London and Milan openings, we are delighted to bring Banana Republic to Paris and take another exciting step in our international growth strategy,” said Stephen Sunnucks, president, International, Gap Inc. “With loyal customers across Europe, both in our stores and online, we are confident that Banana Republic’s proposition of affordable luxury will resonate well with Parisian customers.”

The flagship store is part of Gap Inc.’s ongoing strategy to bring Banana Republic’s affordable luxury offering to new markets around the world, including Europe. Last year, the company opened its first Banana Republic store in Italy in Milan. In 2010, the company also made Banana Republic products available to European customers online by launching a dedicated e-commerce site. This site services 21 European countries, including France. Gap Inc. currently operates more than 600 Banana Republic stores in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, and Japan.

The Paris flagship will represent the most contemporary expression of the brand globally. With 1,482 square meters (15,952 square feet) over two floors, the space has been renovated to combine contemporary and traditional elements that evoke the brand’s essence.

“The store will offer the best of ‘city style’ that appears in our stores in all our hub cities – from New York, to Tokyo, London, Milan and now, in Paris,” said Sunnucks. “Combining affordable luxury with impeccable service and Avenue Champs Élysées, this store is set to become a ‘must visit’ destination for the Parisians and visitors alike.”

Store Design:
The store’s unique architecture and rich materials are inspired by the heritage of France and connect back to America through an exhibition of iconic imagery curated by Michael Hoppen. Many of the building’s original architectural details have been retained and updated; the contemporary white and black diamond marble floors combined with limestone, sweeping marble feature staircase and an old era style lift offering elegant access to the main shopping area lit by a Charles Edwards chandelier. French Art Deco antiques, sophisticated curved ebony paneling and black enamel detailing create the feeling of a residential environment while a series of neoclassical arches and vaults evoke a shopping promenade.

Product:
Since its founding in 1978, Banana Republic has established itself as a brand offering a range of stylish, versatile wardrobe solutions delivering elevated design and luxurious fabrications at approachable prices to customers around the world. The Paris flagship will offer the brand’s covetable, uncomplicatedstyle that works from day to night and will house the women’s and men’s ready-to-wear collections, accessories and personal care products, including Monogram – a collection of wardrobe builders and statement makers that represent the very best of Banana Republic. Each item is created in limited quantities using the finest fabrics, most refined techniques and meticulous attention to detail.

Customer Service:
The Paris store will also include Banana Republic’s bespoke approach to customer service to create the ultimate shopping experience. The store will host trained personal stylists who customers can book appointments with to obtain free styling advice. These appointments will be tailored to individual needs with alterations also provided and can be booked in person or over the phone.
 
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