What: Saks is partnering with resort operators to establish Five Avenue Clubs’ personal service and styling suites in locations where it doesn’t have stores.

Why it is important: The new initiative is a way for the retailer to deliver personal service to a wider audience and reach customers in locations where it doesn’t operate stores.

Saks Fifth Avenue is bringing its Fifth Avenue Club personal shopping and styling service to luxury resorts across America, with plans to open 10 locations in 2023.

So far, three Fifth Avenue Club suites in resorts are open in Hawaii and two locations in California. Additional Fifth Avenue Club suites are expected to open at luxury properties in Maui, Nashville, Orlando, Charleston, Deer Valley, Nantucket and Santa Fe.

The company is leasing suites in the resorts for a minimum of one year to test locations and understand the value of the market. Small local teams who are well connected in their communities have been recruited for the suites in the resorts.

Saks' lead partner in the strategy is Marriott International and its portfolio of luxury brands, but other partners have been brought on board as well.

Clients will make an appointment and consultations will be done remotely to determine the client's needs. Then the suite gets curated for the client by the time of arrival at the resort.

Saks extends its brand of personal service to luxury resorts