What: Bloomie’s will be a convenient, elevated and slimmed-down version of the department store.

Why is it important: Following the flexible format units trend initiated by Nordstrom Local stores, Bloomingdale’s is also thinking small with its first Bloomie’s store, a 22,000-square-foot unit opening on 26 August in the Mosaic District shopping centre in Fairfax, Virginia.

Bloomie’s emphasises luxury, advanced and contemporary labels, and services such as personalisation, customisation, and alterations. The selection is rounded out by beauty, fine jewellery, eyewear and men’s wear. Bloomie’s will also offer services, including easy returns from any channel at the Returns Dropbox, and buy online for in-store or curbside pickup, all accessible through the centralised Front Desk at Bloomie’s.

Every associate on the sales floor will be a stylist, expert in all categories, to provide a level of service enabled by technology. Each stylist will be equipped with digital selling capabilities, allowing them to access special finds for customers outside of Bloomie’s, from nearby Bloomingdale’s stores to Bloomingdales.com.

Bloomingdale’s Is Downsizing With Bloomie’s, A Convenient, Elevated New Concept

Bloomingdale's press release