Good Stores Guide - 2019

2019 

Good Stores Guide 

Global retail best practice explored 

Dubai 

Heraklion 

Hong Kong 

Madrid 

Inside: 

30 Stores. 

1 Essential Guide. 

Montreal 

New York 

San Diego 

San Francisco 

Venice 

Warsaw 

Washington 

visualthinking.co.uk 

/ shoptactics



Directory 

2 

These are our selection of must-visit stores for 2019: 

our annual pick of best practice retail experiences that 

represent good design, attentive customer service and 

outstanding visual merchandising. 

Inside our 2019 Good Stores Guide, we profile stores 

that our team of retail specialists have been lucky 

enough to see as they travel from city to city improving 

instore performance. From local brands in lesserexplored 

neighbourhoods, to truly global retailers who 

are transcending geographic and cultural boundaries. 

This guide will hopefully act as a reminder that the 

future of physical is still bright. Our annual Good Stores 

Guide serves to inform and inspire. As it should be, it 

is simply our latest instalment in what will always be a 

continuous pursuit of retail performance improvement. 

This is what good looks like 

Let’s explore. 

www.visualthinking.co.uk 

Clothing/Accessories 

Want Apothecary 

Gucci Soho 

Pink 

Aldolfo Dominguez 

Also Visit 

Bonobos 

Newbie 

Topman General Store 

Home/Furnishings 

Ikea 

Casper 

Waterford Wedgwood 

House of Hackney 

Also Visit 

David Mellor 

Jaime Beriestain 

Muy Mucho 

March 

03 

04 

06 

08 

10 

12 

12 

12 

12 

13 

14 

16 

18 

20 

22 

22 

22 

22 

22 

Credits 

Food/Hospitality 

Daylesford Organic 

Raised by Wolves 

Also Visit 

Ralph’s Coffee 

Monogram Roaster 

Nino & Friends 

23 

24 

26 

28 

28 

28 

28 

Editorial 

Kay Garrett 

Marc Baker 

Contributors 

Ellie Pask 

Karl McKeever 

Katy Trodd 

Kirsty Kean 

Published by Visual Thinking 

© Visual Thinking 2018 

Designed by 

DSGNLAB 

NN6 9HF 

UK 

www.dsgnlab.com 

Department Stores 

Fondaco Dei Tedeschi 

Robinsons 

Speciality 

Amazon Bookstore 

Top Drawer 

29 

30 

32 

34 

35 

37 

www.visualthinking.co.uk 

Be inspired, respect copyrights! 

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or 

transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, 

including photocopy or any storage and retrieval system, without 

permission in writing from Visual Thinking. 

Also Visit 

Victorinox 

Acuitis 

Nike 

Take Care 

B8ta 

Natura 

39 

39 

39 

39 

40 

40 

40



Clothing/ 

Accessories 

In a world of disposable fashion, 

‘cookie cutter’ multiple store 

chains are being discarded in 

favour of heritage industrial or 

ultra modernist design – perfect 

for those who want a more 

individual, quirky look.

4 

Montreal | Canada 


The first word that comes to mind 

when describing WANT Apothecary is 

“timelessness”. Disguised in the style of a 

classic 19th century pharmacy, the retailer 

pays homage to a bygone era, with an old 

English feel. 


GSG Rating 

Brand Experience 

9/10 

Innovation 

7/10 

VM/Presentation 

9/10 

Retail Execution 

9/10 

Customer Service 

9/10 

Founded: 

2011 

Origin: 

Canada 

Sector: 

Clothing 

Stores: 

5

5 

The result is a store that succeeds in looking like it’s always been there, 

while also retaining a modern relevance. In fact, the Montreal-based retailer 

opened its first location in the city back in 2011. Shunning the busier and more 

popular malls or retail streets, it instead sits adjacent to an upscale residential 

neighbourhood - presenting smart fashion, homewares and beauty essentials 

(hence the apothecary name) with what it calls tasteful ‘Neighbourhood Retail’. 

The nostalgia-tinged ambience continues inside, with highly curated collections 

surrounded by parquet flooring, marble, brushed copper and American walnut. 

While framed fixtures add to the modern element of the store. The front of 

the store is full of hard-to-find Scandinavian labels, like Falke, Nudie Jeans, 

and Swims footwear. The back of the boutique is where the modernised oldfashioned 

pharmacy concept plays out, with shelves full of skincare products. 

Continuing the “community” theme, WANT is a retail environment where staff 

might know you by name. 

This is not fast throwaway fashion. It’s all part of the brand’s “curated customer 

experience” for everyone who walks through the door. If that’s not enough, 

customers can sign up for WANT Apothecary after-hours personalised 

shopping service: a perfect addition for those who truly prefer to take shopping 

at a different pace 

Disguised in the style of a classic 19th 

century pharmacy, WANT Apothecary 

pays homage to a bygone era. 

Latitude: 

45.480372 

Longitiude: 

-73.601637 


4690 Sherbrooke St W, 

Westmount, Montreal Quebec 

H3Z 1H3, Canada 

Find it 

wantapothecary.com

6 

New York | USA 

Gucci Soho 

Like many other high-end fashion labels, 

Gucci has recently recruited a flurry of 

young designers, each seeking to establish 

their own narrative by trailblazing a 

different kind of aesthetic – one that rejects 

minimalism in favour of a much more 

Gucci Soho 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

9/10 


9/10 


10/10 


8/10 

pronounced and decorative look and feel. 

Founded: 

1921 

Origin: 

Italy 

Sector: 

Clothing 


550

7 

This flagship store, situated in New York’s SoHo district, is highly individualised 

a bold and edgy statement that’s about so much more than simply selling 

products. Previously known for following narrow and minimalist aesthetic, the 

brand now boasts an edgier feel and much more disruptive design influence, 

breaking convention and breaking the rules. It appears to be working. 

Gucci has completely transformed and revolutionised its fortunes in the last 

few years. Though still very exclusive in look, their SoHo store is all about 

mixing pattern, print, textures, designs, detailing, cut and even gender. Unlike 

many designer brands that end up excluding the general public, Gucci has 

always been accessible. This has only been strengthened with this store – one 

that is fun and highly playful. Leading in with an old school theatrical cinema 

display that doubles as the window display, shoppers are encouraged to sit on 

cinema seats alongside mannequins dressed head to toe in Gucci to become 

part of a ‘living’ display. It’s clear they have invested a lot in VM theatre instore. 

This is a brand space that’s says, with great confidence, “We have arrived. We 

are here. And we are dramatic”. Embracing rich patterns, it defiantly carries 

a love it or hate it aesthetic. Whether you’re a fan or not, its ability to deliver 

clear brand differentiation cannot be argued with 

This is a brand space that’s says, with 

great confidence, ‘We have arrived. We 

are here. And we are dramatic’. 

Latitude: 

40.723334 

Longitiude: 

-74.001957 

Gucci SoHo 

63 Wooster St, New York, 

NY 10012, USA 

Find it 

gucci.com

8 


Pink 

With its latest store concept, the 

upmarket British shirt and suit retailer 

has achieved a luxurious relaunch, 

giving the ‘heritage look’ a subtle, 

elegant revolution. 

Pink 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

8/10 


9/10 


10/10 


9/10 

Founded: 

1984 

Origin: 

UK 

Sector: 

Clothing 


90

9 

Underpinning the arrival of new creative director, John Ray, the re-imagination of 

Pink’s flagship New York store is the hallmark of a new global look and feel for the 

brand. The result is a store with a distinctiveness and elegance that makes other 

notable heritage British brands – the likes of Hackett, Paul Smith and Dunhill – 

look either too young or mid market by comparison. 

This is no isolated flagship showpiece either. All stores internationally have been 

relaunched – and beautifully. Some have been completely refurbished while 

others, such as its Columbus Circle store, have received a full revamp. Its New 

York flagship store blends modernist clean lines with traditional references in 

a ‘smart money’ cultured, elevated, minimalist way – this is luxury for the 21st 

century. Inside there are few but quality details. Superior presentation styling and 

attention to detail runs through every inch of the store – there are no half measures 

here. VM is curated, elegant and sublime. Representing a transformation for the 

brand that is nothing short of remarkable, it has transitioned Pink with a modern, 

designer look and into a highly luxurious brand. This is an absolute case study 

in how to revolutionise a brand experience. And to do so in a fell swoop is an 

amazing feat 

Nothing short of remarkable, it has 

transitioned Pink with a modern, designer 

look into a highly luxurious brand. 

Latitude: 

40.760145 

Longitiude: 

-73.974469 

Pink 

520 Madison Ave, New York, 

NY 10022, USA 

Find it 

thomaspink.com

10 

Madrid | Spain 

Adolfo Dominguez 

If you’re on the hunt for a retail 

experience in Madrid that offers a sense 

of discovery, there are still few better 

than the flagship store of designer 

Adolfo Dominguez. 


GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

6/10 


9/10 


9/10 


9/10 

Founded: 

1950 

Origin: 

Spain 

Sector: 

Clothing 


470

11 

In almost every respect and particularly by modern clear-line store design 

thinking, this layout should not work. Housed within the cathedral-like 

landmark on the corner of Serrano Street, the store is an intriguing labyrinth 

spread over five floors. Home to the entire AD universe, it brings together all 

collections from the eponymous Spanish designer. The retailer has retained 

many of the building’s original features, mixed with new additions such as a 

swooping staircase that weaves its way around and between the exposed 

brick walls, allowing customers to take in views of the main atrium as they 

work their way through the floors. Working with the architectural fabric of the 

building, product is repeatedly nestled within archways to create beautifully 

framed focal points that surprise and delight at every turn and as customers 

travel between floors. 

The fourth floor is dedicated to new creators, designers and craftsmen – 

anchored by the presence of a working alternations and tailorshop which also 

reinforces the fashion designer origins of the brand. Journey to the last floor 

and the space opens up to the world of gastronomy, thanks to a vegetarian 

restaurant with organic products and healthy recipes. There is also a 

multidisciplinary V.I.P space that is used for concerts, exhibitions, conferences 

and workshops – secluded from view behind closed doors that are left 

deliberate ajar when not in use to allow customers a sneak peek 

Latitude: 

40.421522 

Longitiude: 

-3.688698 


Calle Serrano, 5, 28001 

Madrid, Spain 

Find it 

adolfodominguez.com

12 

Also Visit 

Washington | USA 

Bonobos 

bonobos.com 

Warsaw | Poland 

Newbie 

newbiestore.com 

Founded in 2007, Bonobos started out as a pureplay online brand. 

From a VM perspective, it’s hard to actually make a point of difference 

for what is, in effect, just another menswear store. Essentially, there 

are only so many things you can do. But this is a brand that has really 

thought ‘out of the box’. If you’re looking to find a menswear store that 

is truly innovative and really doing things differently, this is the one to look 

at. Polo shirts, shirts and shorts they may be, but they’re still handled in a 

way that is very different. Product volume gives way to just displaying one 

of each, working together in a very imaginative solution. The result really 

makes their products feel exclusive. 

Born in 2010, Swedish fashion label Newbie offers a range of sustainable 

and affordable children’s clothes and accessories for design-conscious 

millennial parents. Its Warsaw store is a little gem for those shopping for 

their little ones, mixing timeless style with a modern twist. This store is one of 

twenty that the retailer operates, including six in the UK – with more new stores 

planned. The shopping experience mirrors the values of the Newbie brand, 

utilising sustainable and natural materials. Calming, muted hues reflect the spirit 

of the collections and reinforce the brand’s eco credentials to only use 100% 

organic cotton fabric. Though densely merchandised, colour blocking and 

design theming is successfully used for clear and attractive storytelling of the 

product collections. 

Find it | 2001 International Dr Space 1412, McLean, VA 22102, USA 

Find it | Światowida 17, 03-144 Warsaw, Poland 



topman.com 

When Topman director Gordon Richardson and B-store’s Matthew Murphy 

decided to open The General Store they set out to create a space that would 

function as a social and fashion destination for the local community – and 

that was seven years ago. Proof that ‘experiential’ is not a new phenomenon. This 

store is a great example of a high-street titan reinventing itself for a specific location 

and customer type. The result is an edited Topman collection that fits perfectly 

alongside the other owner-operated boutiques in the area – at high street prices. 

With vintage furnishings, exposed brickwork and a 1940s fascia, it’s a world away 

from the brand’s mainstream image: and all the better for it. 

Find it | 98 Commercial St, Shoreditch, London E1 6LZ



Home/ 

Furnishings 

With millennial living increasingly 

centred on urban locations, a 

growing number of retailers in 

this sector are abandoning 

out-of-town retail parks to make 

their home in new city centre 

showrooms.

14 

Warsaw | Poland 

Ikea 

Opened in October 2018, this store is like 

no other IKEA. Located in Warsaw’s citycentre 

mall, Blue City, it continues the 

brand’s move away from huge out-oftown, 

maze-like, ubiquitous warehouse 

retail spaces into something altogether 

Ikea 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

8/10 


9/10 


9/10 


8/10 

more inspiring. 

Founded: 

1943 

Origin: 

Sweden 

Sector: 

Homewares 


424

15 

This concept rejuvenates the original IKEA 

concept for a whole new generation… It’s 

revolutionary, paradigm shifting – 

a true game changer. 

Everything about this IKEA is ‘better’ – simplistic, Nordic and elevated in 

style, while still retaining a familiar IKEA look. The spacious open plan layout 

does away with most of the familiar layout characteristics. Freedom and 

easy movement are preferred to the claustrophobic, racetrack walkway 

and floor arrows normally used to guide people around an IKEA store. The 

spacious open plan layout is beautifully arranged: the ground floor for a more 

contemporary expression of the ‘self select’ homewares Market Place, upstairs 

the furniture room sets and planning facilities. Innovation and experience 

is integral within this store’s DNA, as showcased by the tranquillity of the 

dreamy Sleep Studio. Product presentation and display execution is sublime 

throughout. 

Latitude: 

52.212521 

Longitiude: 

20.955690 

Despite being late to market with investment in instore technology, IKEA has 

caught up, fast. Innovative digital tools are seamlessly integrated within room 

set displays, marketing and information points. With no self-select bulky stock 

warehouse on site, technology also enables easy purchase and home delivery 

options. Meanwhile, a smart mall-facing bistro cafe draws IKEA diners as well 

as those simply wanting a refreshing pit stop. Representing a new style of 

lifestyle and furniture store for the brand, this concept rejuvenates the original 

IKEA concept for a whole new generation of city dwelling, car free shoppers. 

It’s revolutionary, paradigm shifting – a true game changer 

Ikea Blue City 

Aleje Jerozolimskie 179, CH 

Blue City, poziom -1, 02-222 

Warsaw, Poland 

Find it 

ikea.com

16 


Casper 

When it first launched back in 2014, 

Casper upended the industry with its 

pioneering mattress-in-a-box online 

delivery concept. In 2018, it joined a 

growing list of online retailers to launch a 

permanent physical retail store. 

Casper 

GSG Rating 


10/10 

Innovation 

9/10 


8/10 


8/10 


9/10 

Founded: 

2014 

Origin: 

USA 

Sector: 

Homewares 


19

17 

Situated in the heart of downtown Manhattan, the store is intent on making 

mattress shopping an enjoyable experience. 

The store will be used as a testing ground ahead of a planned 200-store rollout 

across the US. Its cosy layout is in stark contrast to the dreary experience of 

traditional mattress stores where products are lined up in seemingly endless 

rows. Balancing product education with a sense of playfulness, Casper also 

features six semi-private bedrooms, allowing customers to ‘go upstairs to bed’ 

to test the mattresses before buying. Each room has a different design and 

sound effects that activate when you walk in. 

As a brand, Casper is becoming increasingly more confident and morphing 

into a sleep lifestyle brand. The store also serves as a showcase to the brand 

extensions that have been added to its core mattress business, including a 

range of sleep related products including duvets, pillows, bed linen and throws 

- something that is not offered by its competitors, such as Eve sleep and Leesa. 

High standards of visual merchandising throughout help to reinforce the quality 

of Casper’s products. Customers can, and are actively encouraged, to touch 

and feel the fibres in its pillows. There are plenty of interesting display solutions 

too, such as the innovative ‘open window’ POS used to showcase key benefits 

of its bed linen – ‘the coolest sheets you’ll ever meet’. In many ways, it’s similar 

in concept to Dyson, bringing the science behind the products to life, but 

executed in a manner that’s more ‘human’, tactile, and inclusive 

In many ways, it’s similar in concept to 

Dyson but executed in a manner that’s 

more ‘human’, tactile, and inclusive. 

Latitude: 

40.726184 

Longitiude: 

-73.996509 

Casper 

627 Broadway, New York, 

NY 10012, USA 

Find it 

casper.com

18 

Hong Kong | China 

Waterford 

Wedgwood 

Like many luxury British brands, 

Waterford Wedgwood has strong appeal 

among affluent Chinese customers. 

Its Hong Kong store is sure to attract 

Water Wedgwood 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

6/10 


9/10 


10/10 


10/10 

visitors from the mainland. 

Founded: 

1759 

Origin: 

Hong Kong 

Sector: 

Homewares 


226

19 

Characterised by unmistakable classic English elegance – sophisticated and 

superior, but not intimidating. The store brings a true sense of heritage to what 

is, in reality, a cold contemporary retail space. Though the size of the store is 

small, effective layout maximises the available space – presenting shoppers 

with clearly distinct product groupings. From traditional Hong Kong inspired 

tableware in the form of its ‘Wonderlust’ range, to teacups and a table set 

focal point promoting the brand’s fine china collection. Feature tables and 

fixtures display ornate detailing reflective of Wedgwood products themselves. 

Contemporary (and potentially harsh) ceiling lighting is softened by warm hues 

that provide the perfect muted background for Wedgwood’s range of unique 

and striking designs. Meanwhile subtle spot lighting provides key collections 

with a museum-like quality that’s especially evident with its brand collaboration 

range by designer Jasper Conran. 

This is a store that’s aimed squarely at Chinese tourists, seeking to bring a 

touch of Englishness to their homes or buy gifts for loved ones. Customer 

service is suitably reserved and respectful but personal and friendly, with highly 

knowledgeable staff on hand to serve – something that is essential, with only 

one version of each homeware piece displayed at a time. It all helps to create 

a retail experience as enduring as the brand itself 

Latitude: 

22.280442, 

The store brings a true sense of heritage 

to what is, in reality, a cold contemporary 

retail space. 

Longitiude: 

114.184298 


12/F Causeway Bay, SOGO 

Department Store, Hong Kong 

Find it 

wedgwood.com

20 

London | UK 


Rich opulence and glamour are what 

trademark the House of Hackney look. 

Like its products, the store shuns the 

urban, edgy, artistic route reflective of 

the surrounding East London streets in 

favour of contemporary Victorian style, 


GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

6/10 


9/10 


9/10 


8/10 

in all its eclectic glory. 

Founded: 

2010 

Origin: 

UK 

Sector: 

Clothing/ 

Homewares 


1

21 

Selling homewares and furnishings alongside the services to go with them, the 

customer journey is seamless. The brand follows the William Morris mantra 

of “have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe 

to be beautiful” with two floors filled with colour and clashing prints. It’s the 

most Instagram worthy store around with a deliberately over the top approach, 

drawing on the current movement towards maximalist interiors. Despite nods 

to seasonal trends (flamingo base lamps and animal print sofas) the brand has 

very much cultivated its own distinct look that transcends fashion. In doing so 

it has remained relevant, yet unique enough to ensure cult status long after its 

2013 opening. 

For husband and wife owners Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Royale, provenance 

is an important factor. The website describes products as “artistically designed 

future heirlooms expertly made in England by generations old factories”. And 

it’s this sense of quality that is conveyed within this flagship store. From design 

consultancy and custom made furniture, to off-the-shelf cushions, everything 

works together to create a world of elegance and expertise that make you 

want to stay a while (and leaves you trying to justify the purchase of a £500 

lamp). If there are no plans to open a House of Hackney hotel then they are 

missing a trick! 

It’s the most Instagram worthy store 

around… drawing on the current 

movement towards maximalist interiors. 

Latitude: 

51.526647 

Longitiude: 

-0.078278 


131 Shoreditch High St, 

London E1 6JE, UK 

Find it 

houseofhackney.com

Also Visit 

22 

Sheffield | UK 

David Mellor 

davidmellordesign.com 

Barcelona | Spain 


beriestain.com 

The brand may now have two stores in central London, but its country 

shop is the true gem. Nestled on the outskirts of Sheffield, this is 

more than just a store – it’s a destination visitor attraction, complete 

with a working cutlery factory, design museum and coffee shop. The entire 

store is an‘Alladins Cave’ of quality British and international tableware and 

kitchenware design, framed by swathes of natural wood fixtures and a 

mix of tile and granite flooring. Merchandising standards are impeccable, 

with curated storytelling product displays in a series of individual rooms 

providing differentiation between traditional and modern products. This is a 

sophisticated ‘retail meets gallery’ design experience that’s not to be missed. 

Barcelona’s concept store and café from Spanish designer Jaime 

Beriestain is a combination of cosmopolitan environment meets stylish 

home. Walk through the shop and browse the sporadic arrangement 

of traditional and market items for sale. When you’re done shopping, you 

can step inside the restaurant-come-cafe to enjoy a mouth-watering menu. 

It feels like you’re eating inside an Anthropologie shop, but the restaurant 

isn’t simply a retail ‘experience’ gimmick. It’s a full service eatery and, if 

anything, the storefront has been connected to it. Both have a distinctly 

different look and feel – each filled with colour and texture, the environment 

is sophisticated and heavily art inspired. When you next find yourself in 

Barcelona, this concept store is guaranteed to leave you satisfied. 

Find it | The Round Building, Leadmill, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1BA 

Find it | Carrer de Pau Claris, 167, 08037 Barcelona, Spain 


Muy Mucho 

muymucho.es 

San Francisco | USA 

March 

marchsf.com 

Muy Mucho first opened its doors in 1996. Today its stores sell stylish 

eco-friendly household and gift products in over 90 locations. It thrives 

on impulse buying, a fact clearly reflected in the price point of many 

products and the brand’s approach to visual merchandising – in many ways 

reminiscent of retailers like Flying Tiger, Søstrene Grene and Granit. The 

store is certainly more ‘lived in’ than show home. Space has been supremely 

optimised, with compact but highly impactful focal point displays nestled in 

small gaps around the store. Every available inch is put to use. This is a store 

that doesn’t need to try hard to impress, but it does. Welcoming, cosy and 

relaxing; with staff focused on maintaining its casual appeal. 

‘Make yourself at home’ is clearly a mantra that March believes in. Its 

beautifully crafted store environment creates a true sense of home and 

feels both informal and luxurious at the same time. In truth, product 

presentation is carefully curated and effortlessly executed in a way that is 

artistic but precise – enabling the personality of the brand to shine through. 

Draped linen clothes are displayed over a clothes airer as if they’ve been 

left to dry, while paintings by Gary Komarin hang on the walls. Compelling 

product stories are told around each collection, while the effective use of 

colour balance and coordination gives a strong, cohesive visual identity to 

the entire retail space. 

Find it | Calle Gran Vía, 7, 28013 Madrid, Spain 

Find it | 3075 Sacramento St, San Francisco CA 94115



Food & 

Hospitality 

Food shopping doesn’t have to 

be bland. Health, provenance 

and trust are key watchwords, 

with everyone from artisan 

producers to discounters serving 

up a new generation of stores 

catering for exacting tastes, 

prepared to perfection.

24 

Gloucester | UK 

Daylesford 

Organic 

Daylesford is like being at a retreat 

– gently adapting your mind to an 

organic way of thinking. Instore, it’s a 

demonstration of sensational food and 


GSG Rating 


10/10 

Innovation 

7/10 


10/10 


10/10 


9/10 

artisan skills at its best. 

Founded: 

2002 

Origin: 

UK 

Sector: 

Food/ 

Lifestyle 


5

25 

It’s easy to forget that this is a farm shop, not a department store. The 

selection, quality and calibre of presentation, of both product and people, 

really is that good. Staff are confidently welcoming and have clearly been 

empowered to be ‘on the ground’ owners of the brand. Inside, you can 

buy everything from groceries to hampers, cookware, homeware, gifts and 

garden products. Daylesford food and products are not particularly obscure, 

unusual or even fancy. What makes everyday articles and food items special 

is the form of presentation. Stories have been created out of inane products. 

Eggs displayed in a ‘just been laid’ approach. Bread cascading out of crates 

as if just spilled from an oven – each area in itself is like turning pages of a 

storybook: simple yet captivating and inspiring. 

The point of difference is Daylesford’s cleverly designed and implemented 

‘rooms’. From the exquisite Cheese Room to the ambience, artisan and 

ownership displayed within the Tea Room. In terms of visual merchandising, 

there is an abundance of strong balance between blocked product, colours, 

themes and stories. This is at its finest in the ‘seaside’ inspired general 

merchandise range. Mixing soft grey, ocean blue and warm beige hues with 

braided basket lampshades, textured cotton and linen, it oozes tranquillity and 

comfort. Yes, it is extravagant and certainly, from a price perspective, is out 

of reach for the everyday but shines for the indulgent. But Daylesford is a true 

delight, with steadfast ‘built in’ inner confidence. And the result is remarkable 

Yes, it is extravagant… But 

Daylesford is a true delight, with 

steadfast ‘built in’ inner confidence. 

And the result is remarkable. 

Latitude: 

51.929060 

Longitiude: 

-1.642757 


Daylesford near Kingham 

Gloucestershire, 

Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0YG, UK 

Find it 

daylesford.com

26 

San Diego | USA 


Located in San Diego’s luxury UTC mall, 

Raised by Wolves has been creating a 

buzz since it opened in early 2018. This 

this is a novel and highly innovative oneof-a-kind 

drinks store and private bar 

selling an array of rare bottles, high-end 


GSG Rating 


10/10 

Innovation 

10/10 


9/10 


10/10 


10/10 

spirits, and bar accessories. 

Founded: 

2018 

Origin: 

USA 

Sector: 

Food/Drink 


1

27 

The powerful combination of stunning visual execution, well-executed cocktails 

and high foot mall traffic means Raised by Wolves will likely become a can’tmiss 

destination for liquor enthusiasts. 

The store design itself evokes of a sense of stepping back in time, transporting 

customers to The French Quarter in the 19th century. It’s a world away 

from the modern mall setting they leave when they step through the door. 

The deeper you go inside, the more you forget where you are and become 

totally immersed in the experience. Nothing is done without consideration, 

with everything from product presentation and furniture to the lighting and 

music, deliberate and well considered. Unquestionably opulent, the old-world 

environment is the latest concept from the highly experienced Consortium 

holdings. One of San Diego’s most acclaimed hospitality groups, it runs several 

boutique brands and concepts, each with their own distinct identity. Acting 

as a ‘taster’ of the full butler bar service beyond the store is well curated and 

surprisingly affordable. The same cannot be said of the store’s private bar. 

Latitude: 

32.872367 

Longitiude: 

-117.213181 

It’s very exclusive, but well worth it. Even if only for that fact you get to be 

transported through a secret passageway, disguised as a fireplace, to enter it 

– creating a pure sense of retail theatre. The part-store, part-bar concept also 

hosts cocktail classes and guest bartender events. Best of all, you can buy 

everything you need to make that drink at home on your way out the door 


4301 La Jolla Village Dr Ste 

#2030, San Diego, CA 92122, 

USA 

Find it 

raisedxwolves.com

28 

Also Visit 

Hong Kong | China 


ralphlauren.asia 

Heraklion | Greece 


facebook.com/monogramchania 

The upmarket cafe from the Ralph Lauren brand stable, Ralph’s Coffee 

has already made headway in New York, Chicago, London and Paris, 

and in April opened its first Asia outlet in the hugely popular Ocean 

Terminal Mall. Located adjacent to the newly renovated Ralph Lauren store, 

it serves a selection of coffee and light fare for takeaway service. Richly 

decorated in the brand’s hero green livery, it has a Brooklyn style ‘look and 

feel’ with smart, signature packaging for take home coffee and associated 

coffee brew wares. 

This is a cool coffee shop. What it lacks in size and scale, it more 

than makes up for in style. Selling a range of authentic Barista made 

coffee favourites and local pastries, it’s a great addition to the town. 

The products are delicious and coffee second-to-none. Unlike most coffee 

shops, which have a traditional atmosphere (and with that a typically dated, 

well worn look), this is a modern generation and the type of business that 

has the potential to grow beyond its home shores. It does all the same 

things as any international chain coffee brand but at a local level and is 

a testament to what can be achieved when you combine the corporate 

approaches of the bigger players with local service flair and personality. 

Find it | OT313, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong 

Find it | Chatzimichali Ntaliani & Daskalogiannir 5 

Venice | Italy 


ninoandfriends.com 

Nino is just one of many high quality independent family retailers that 

can be found across Venice. In this case a vast array of deliciously 

tempting food. If chocolate is your thing you really need to go here. 

The store itself has a classic rural Italian feel, with a modern twist, that’s 

reflective of the brand’s motto “Goodness is created starting with simplicity”. 

In many ways it has a Lush-like quality to it. Only this time the products on 

display can be eaten. Arranged with genuine care in a way that feels informal 

yet structured, presentation standards are simple but hunger inducing – 

shamelessly tempting customers and encouraging exploration. All supported 

by a mix of humorous POS messaging and mouth-watering imagery. 

Find it | 5576, Salizada San Lio, 5576, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy



Department 

Stores 

The ‘house of brands’ everything, 

everywhere narrative is over. The 

move towards experiential and 

social shopping demands fewer, 

better, more connected stores – 

and bold ambition.

30 

Dubai | UAE 

Robinsons 

In Dubai – where bigger is always better 

– iconic department store Robinsons 

has comfortably secured its spot as the 

region’s premier destination. Redefining 

shopping for UAE customers, the store 

features a host of experiential concepts, 

Robinsons 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

8/10 


9/10 


9/10 


9/10 

innovative interior design and intuitive VM. 

Founded: 

1858 

Origin: 

Singapore 

Sector: 

Department 



6

31 

Located in the recently extended Dubai Festival City Mall, the store marked 

the retail giant’s first outside of Asia when it opened. It may not be a name 

that is familiar to UK or even European shoppers, but with existing stores in 

Singapore and Malaysia, it is well known here. 

At 200,000 square feet, it’s Dubai largest department store, featuring more 

than 600 coveted and exclusive label brands including a collaboration, and 

regional-first, with British retail giant John Lewis & Partners – featuring the 

brand’s largest curated home collection outside of the UK. 

Luxurious and spacious, it’s an oasis of inspiration set across three magnificent 

floors. Lush Asian-inspired vertical walled gardens fill the walls – something 

that has clearly inspired the likes of UK retailers House of Fraser and Fenwick, 

which have both featured similar installations in their new store openings. 

The store is zoned into a series of distinct brand spaces. An urban zone 

features industrial materials and a DJ booth, while the beauty area is strikingly 

framed with metallic finishes and gleaming marbles, and the eveningwear 

department dials up the glamour with gold, bronze and champagne tones. 

Underscoring the store’s service-oriented approach, customers can enjoy VIP 

lounges, white-glove service, gourmet food restaurants on every floor and even 

a kid’s cinema, to keep them entertained while parents explore. 

Latitude: 

25.223398 

Longitiude: 

55.350708 

This is a store that is focused as much on hospitality as it is shopping. 

Passion and dedication to offering the finest shopping experience has been a 

hallmark of Robinsons for over 150 years and here, in Dubai, it is displayed for 

all to see 

Robinsons 

Ground floor Level 1 & 2 - 

Dubai Festival City Mall - 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates 

Find it 

robinsons.me

32 

Venice | Italy 

Fondaco Dei 

Tedeschi 

It’s one of the most famous buildings in 

Venice located at the foot of the Rialto 

Bridge. The 16th century Fondaco Dei 

Tedeschi has been transformed into 


GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

6/10 


9/10 


10/10 


9/10 

a must-see shopping destination and 

Instagramming hotspot. 

Founded: 

1960 

Origin: 

Hong Kong 

Sector: 

Department 



1

33 

Like most Venetian buildings with a grand waterfront, signage is not allowed. 

Shoppers chance upon and discover this place via one of the narrow cobbled 

streets that make up the streetscape. Situated in a prime spot on the Grand 

Canal, at the Rialto bend, the views from the sixth story are possibly the best 

in the city. Inside, the building pulls plenty of surprises. Most Venice buildings 

are small, low ceilinged affairs with beautiful historic interiors. 

This store opens up into a vast central atrium, like a roman amphitheatre. 

Stone built with massive blocks, it’s cut through on every floor with half moon 

windows, like stone made festoon blinds opening views to every floor. Around 

it, the store fans out over three floors of galleries. Original details spanning 

centuries have been preserved throughout, from a 16th-century fireplace in the 

womenswear section and painted beams in the arcades around the atrium, 

to Napoleonic-era flooring on the ground floor and the concrete-beamed 

ceiling from the 1930s. It’s a story of complete luxury (this is a place where 

the escalators are scarlet and the elevators gold). An exceptional range of 

mostly luxury products from Italian and international brands are presented in 

beautifully crafted mini boutiques around the central atrium. In fact the store is 

notable for the space it does not use for merchandise. If ever the term less is 

more applied, it is skillfully demonstrated here 

The 16th century Fondaco Dei Tedeschi 

has been transformed into a must-see 

shopping destination. 

Latitude: 

45.438217 

Longitiude: 

12.336805 


Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi, 

Rialto Bridge, 30124 Venice, Italy 

Find it 

dfs.com



Speciality 

Brands who bring something 

special to their sector are easy 

to love. From the physical 

offerings of online disruptors, 

to a new breed of innovative 

retailers making the ordinary, 

extraordinary and more desirable.

35 



The move by Amazon into its own 

bricks-and-mortar stores comes at a 

time when many traditional bookstores 

are struggling. It combines 21 st Century 

technological advantage with the best of 

traditional shopkeeping. 

Top Drawer 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

7/10 


10/10 


9/10 


8/10 

Founded: 

1994 

Origin: 

USA 

Sector: 

Books 


17

36 

This store, one of Amazon’s largest, is located in Georgetown – one of the 

city’s wealthiest neighbourhoods, which means many locals are likely to 

be Prime members. Though it includes 5,600 book titles – all of which are 

displayed with their covers facing out – the store is not all about books. 

Located front of store are dozens of tablets and smart-home devices, such 

as Amazon’s Echo, for customers to test. It’s not the layout or look and feel 

that makes this modern take on a bookstore interesting though – in many 

respects it is akin to a conventional bookstore. The store serves an extension 

of Amazon.com, adapting many of the online features that Amazon customers 

have come to know and love. Without the benefit of infinite aisle that the brand 

enjoys online, product range is chosen based on customer data and reader 

habits. Review cards are displayed alongside each book, showing ratings on 

Amazon.com snippets of customer reviews. 

The store also carries over the sense discovery that it achieves online through 

its algorithm-based recommendations, with a section called “If you like…” 

helping customers discover unexpected titles. Most noticeable of all is that the 

store features no price tags below books. Instead, customers are encouraged 

to use the brand’s mobile app to scan items for details. The app also allows 

customers to self-search the store by title to find where a book is located 

instore and to see how many copies remain. Though the store concept itself 

may feel very familiar, it’s the way it integrates the benefits of online and offline 

worthy of a place on our list 

The store serves an extension of 

Amazon.com, adapting many of the 

online features that customers have 

come to know and love. 

Latitude: 

51.929060 

Longitiude: 

-1.642757 


3040 M St NW, Washington DC 

20007, USA 

Find it 

amazon.com

37 


Top Drawer 

Since 2012, this boutique division of 

Itoya – an iconic Japanese stationery 

retailer – has slowly been expanding 

with a series of desirable boutique style 

neighbourhood shops across the USA. 

Top Drawer 

GSG Rating 


9/10 

Innovation 

7/10 


10/10 


9/10 


8/10 

Founded: 

2012 

Origin: 

Japan 

Sector: 

Stationery 


12

38 

Though its Japanese heritage is clearly evident, Topdrawer also speaks to 

Bay Area sensibilities and the hordes of urban creatives who need to do their 

best work, anywhere. Its strapline is ‘Tools for nomads’ – the brand believes 

that all its products should be able to fit in a bag. The tools in question (a 

mix of American and Japanese manufacturing) revolve around four basic life 

activities – work, photography, eating and travel. The result is an interesting 

and colourful mix of journals and notebooks (pen testing is encouraged), photo 

albums, bento boxes, smart phone cables, rain boots and Japanese house 

shoes. 

Inside the boutique stationers’ third Bay area store, passion and friendly 

staff are on hand to greet customers. Instore, fixtures made from rescued 

raw materials are mixed with merchandise in a range of modern, vibrant 

hues. It’s highly impactful, though far from being a riot of colour. Instead, 

products are brought together and used to great effect, creating a carefully 

coordinated palette and repeated patterns throughout the store. The result 

makes everything from stationery and storage boxes to wash bags and travel 

accessories far more engaging than they really have the right to be 

Though its Japanese heritage is clearly 

evident, Top Drawer also speaks to Bay 

Area sensibilities and the hordes of 

urban creatives. 

Latitude: 

37.770038 

Longitiude: 

-122.445628 

Top Drawer 

1409 Haight St, 

Masonic Avenue, 

San Francisco CA 94117, USA 

Find it 

topdrawershop.com

39 

Also Visit 

London | UK 

Victorinox 

victorinox.com 

Montreal | Canada 

Acuitis 

acuitis.com 

The brand started life as a cutler’s workshop in 1884 and developed 

the Original Swiss Army Knife. Its New Bond Street store is not so 

much a hidden gem, more a store that deserves greater attention. 

It is downstairs that the visual merchandising really shines – making eyecatching 

presentations of the most ordinary of products. Colour blocked 

kitchen knives look striking against wooden wall bays. The Swiss Army 

Knives area is museum-like, while a small workshop housing the ‘knife 

assembly station’ allows shoppers to customise their product, engrave it 

or even build it themselves – a process that gives a unique reason to visit 

the store especially in gift-giving season. Retail standards throughout are 

impeccable and staff knowledge here is a cut above. 

As a self-declared fashion house for optics, the brand’s eye for creative 

detail is refreshing to see. The stylish sleek store features a boutique 

art gallery-style concept that charms, rather than intimidates. Gone are 

the racks of glasses and serious, clinical vibe often seen in this category. 

Instead, eyewear is showcased on central Apple-like product tables, 

creating a natural flow instore and a sense of relaxed, accessible and playful 

interaction. Wooden frames are the brand’s specialty and this is reflected in 

material choices. Tables are clearly segmented, with price points rising as 

you venture deeper instore. Inset within each table are elegant hand mirrors 

– a refined and more intimate alternative to putting customers ‘on public 

display’. Best of all, you can now find Acuitis in the UK. 

Find it | 95-96 New Bond St, Mayfair, London W1S 1DB 

Find it | CC Carrefour Laval, 3035 Boulevard le Carrefour, Laval, QC H7T 1C8, Canada 


Nike 

nike.com 

The ability of the US sportswear giant to deliver first-rate retail experiences 

shows no sign of slowing. Spanning six floors, its new ‘House of 

Innovation ‘000’ concept returns the brand at the cutting-edge of retail 

innovation. With its stunning glass ‘airpod’ like facade, minimalist style and 

array of integrated technology, this store feels genuinely futuristic. From a 

series of attention-grabbing digital feature walls and catwalk installations, to the 

embedded Nike app that allows customers to check sizes and available colours 

by scanning mannequins and get items sent directly to changing rooms. Its 

famed product customisation is ever-present too. So too is a concierge service, 

complete with high-end fitting lounge on the top floor. Part store, part-museum, 

it represents a major investment (and commitment) to bold physical retail. 

Find it | 650 Fifth Avenue at West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019

Also Visit 

40 


Take Care 

takecareshopdc.com 


B8ta 

b8ta.com 

A plant-based beauty and wellness store, Take Care offers a respite 

from the rush of city life in Washington. This is a highly competent indie 

store. Swathed in natural light that bounces off its white walls and light 

pinewood floors, this is “tidy space, tidy mind’ personified – striking just 

the right balance between minimalism and product densities that make the 

store shoppable and manageable to replenished. The sense of calm also 

emanates from the brand’s knowledge and helpful staff. Its look and feel 

would be familiar to any customer of AESOP. Much more than just neutral 

colour palette and rope-hung shelves, however, it also serves as a selfcare 

space for the local community - hosting wellness events, such as yoga 

classes and nutrition planning sessions. 

For a future-orientated tech brand, investing in brick-and-mortar stores 

may seem like a counterintuitive move. Since launching its now famous 

store in Palo Alto back in 2015, however, B8ta has opened 12 standalone 

stores, and in a further 70-plus shop-in-shop locations through partnerships 

with Lowe’s and Macy’s. The store brings little known makers of trendy gadgets 

and customers together. The entire B8ta experience is demonstration focused, 

with a clean inviting layout making the store easy to navigate and aiding the 

sense of exploration. As in the case in a growing number of retailers, the 

emphasis is on customer education rather than selling to them, with tech-savvy 

B8ta Testers providing hands-on experience and advice instore, making it the 

place to learn about tomorrow’s tech before it becomes mainstream. 

Find it | 1338 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA 

Find it | 590 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA 

Heraklion | Greece 

Natura 

facebook.com/purenaturaepe 

Inexpensively but effectively designed, Natura is authentic and well 

presented with a cohesion and clarity that is rarely seen in this type of 

independent ‘fancy goods’ retailer. The store sells a range of locally 

produced gift lines and tourist goods including: olive wood products, natural 

beauty and wellness ranges, homewares and local produce. Using natural 

materials and a soft earthy sage colour for the interior design, the store features 

bare soft wood shelving and floor tables. Built with a contemporary style 

and integrated LED lighting, product presentation is done with simplicity and 

authority. Using simple VM techniques focusing on project blocked categories, 

the store creates an impression of being well stocked, well managed and is 

executed to a very high standard. 

Find it | Finikia 715 00, Greece

Directory Listing A / M 41 

Acuitis 

3035 Boulevard le Carrefour, Laval, QC H7T 1C8, Canada 


Calle Serrano, 5, 28001 Madrid, Spain 

Gucci Soho 

63 Wooster St, New York, NY 10012, USA 

See Also: Explorer – New York | July 2018 | Read Me 

Could VM fall out of fashion? | Retail Focus magazine | 

July 2018 | Read Me 

Amazon Books 

3040 M St NW, Washington DC 20007, USA 

See Also: Explorer – Washington | Read Me 

B8ta 

590 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA 

See Also: Explorer – San Francisco | October 2018 | Read Me 

Bonobos 

2001 International Dr Space 1412, McLean, VA 22102, USA 

See Also: Explorer – Washington | June 2018 | Read Me 

Casper 

4690 Sherbrooke St W, Westmount, Quebec H3Z 1H3, Canada 


Daylesford Organics 

Daylesford Gloucestershire, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0YG, UK 

See Also: ‘Super Markets?’ Sector Insight Briefing | 

Autumn 2018 | Read Me 

David Mellor 

The Round Building, Leadmill, Hathersage, S32 1BA, UK 




131 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JE, UK 

See Also: ‘Transforming the Department Store’ Research Briefing | 

Winter 2018 | Read Me 

Ikea 

Aleje Jerozolimskie 179, CH Blue City, poziom -1, 02-222 Warsaw, Poland 

See Also: Store Review – IKEA Planning Studio | 

October 2018 | Read Me 

Store Review – IKEA new format | August 2018 | Read Me 


Carrer de Pau Claris, 167, 08037 Barcelona, Spain 

See Also: ‘Super? Markets.’ Sector Insight Briefing | 


March 

3075 Sacramento St, San Francisco CA 94115, USA 

See also: Explorer – San Francisco | October 2018 | Read Me 


Chatzimichali Ntaliani & Daskalogiannir 5, Greece 

See also: Explorer – Heraklion | October 2018 | Read Me 

Muy Mucho 

Calle Gran Vía, 7, 28013 Madrid, Spain 

Fondaco Teldeschi 

Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi, Rialto Bridge, 30124 Venice, Italy 

See Also: Explorer - Venice | Read Me 

‘Transforming the Department Store’ Research Briefing | 

Winter 2018 | Read Me

Directory Listing N / Z 42 

Natura 

Finikia 715 00, Greece 

See Also: Explorer – Heraklion | October 2018 | Read Me 

Newbie 

Światowida 17, 03-144 Warsaw, Poland 

See Also: ‘Problem Child’ article | June 2018 | Read Me 

Nike 

650 Fifth Avenue at West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019, USA 



5576, Salizada San Lio, 5576, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy 


98 Commercial St, Shoreditch, London E1 6LZ, UK 

Victorinox 

95-96 New Bond St, Mayfair, London W1S 1DB, UK 


4690 Sherbrooke St W, Westmount, Montreal Quebec H3Z 1H3, Canada 



12/F Causeway Bay, SOGO Department Store, Hong Kong, China 



See Also: Explorer – Venice | April 2018 | Read Me 


4301 La Jolla Village Dr Ste #2030, San Diego, CA 92122, USA 

See Also: Explorer – San Diego | September 2018 | Read Me 

Explore More 

Looking for more retail inspiration? Look no further. 


OT313, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Hong Kong, China 

See Also: Explorer – Hong Kong | May 2018 | Read Me 

Robinsons 

Ground floor Level 1 & 2 Dubai Festival City Mall - Dubai - UAE 

Explore a wealth of essential retail content in our vast online archive. 

From unmissable Explorer: retail city travels and store reviews, to 

must-read insight reports, informed industry commentary and our 

exclusive retail podcast series. 

Go to visualthinking.co.uk 

See Also: ‘Transforming the Department Store’ Research Briefing | 

Winter 2018 | Read Me 

Take Care 

1338 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA 


Top Drawer 

1409 Haight St, Masonic Avenue, San Francisco CA 94117, USA 

See Also: Explorer – San Francisco | October 2018 | Read Me

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