What: Footwear news draws some conclusions about the store of the future at NRF 2024

Why it is important: physical retail is here to stay… provided the experience made available to customers is relevant and interesting.

At the National Retail Federation’s Big Show in New York City, industry leaders outlined a new vision for physical retail, emphasizing experiential and community-focused elements. Key insights include:

1. Experiential Retail: Retailers are focusing on creating unique in-store experiences. Jordan Brand’s senior director Marcelo Trevisan showcased their "World of Flight" store in Shibuya, Japan, which immerses customers in basketball culture and includes local elements like regional artwork and exclusive sneaker launches.

1. Concept Stores: Shoe brands are trending towards smaller, concept stores that combine product showcases with region-specific experiences. These stores are more productive due to their smaller size and can also serve as local shipping points.
2. Local Community Connection: The importance of building local community connections through concept stores was a recurring theme. Stores are being designed to deliver unique experiences tailored to their specific locations.
3. Highlighting Standout Stores: Accenture’s Cassidy Beadle and Gabriella Fox spotlighted stores like On Holding in Brooklyn and Aimé Leon Dore in Manhattan for their community-focused experiences and distinctive store designs that resonate with local culture.
4. Rothy’s Expansion Strategy: Dayna Quanbeck, newly appointed president of Rothy’s, discussed the brand's expansion strategy. Rothy’s, known for sustainable shoes, plans to open more stores in the U.S. and has started international shipping to various countries. Quanbeck emphasized a balanced approach between e-commerce and physical stores for successful retail expansion.

The future store experience is about engaging the customer