The Store Blog

Freshii comes to Chicago

Freshii, a QSR concept originally from Toronto has opened 3 new locations in Chicago within the past year (and 80 more planned over the next 10 years).  Recently we stopped by the location inside Water Tower Place for a closer look.  Customers are presented with an ordering card that details the options available.  You simply start with a "base":  salad, wrap, bowl, or soup and then indicate the toppings.

Menu variety sets Freshii apart from others in its segment. The eateries offer more than 70 fresh ingredients, including all-natural chicken, grilled steak, shrimp, and albacore tuna, as well as vegetarian options like grilled tofu, tempeh, Portobello mushrooms, and chickpeas. Customers have three choices of greens and can get an extra serving of chicken on their salads or extra tahini sauce for their rice bowls.

Freshii divides menu ingredients into three categories to help guide consumers: Super healthy “24/7” ingredients can be enjoyed every day of the week. They include vegetables such as asparagus, corn, celery, and sun-dried tomatoes. Avocado, grilled steak, and feta cheese are among the “balance” ingredients, which contain essential fats. “Splurge” ingredients, including bleu cheese, smoked bacon, and croutons, should be enjoyed in moderation.

 

- Jenn Phillips, The Store

A visit to the new Barney's in Chicago

Earlier this week we visited the new Barney's store in Chicago.  Located just across the street from the previous location, this store is appx 90,000 sq feet and also features Fred's restaurant and Chelsea Passage on the top floor.

We immediately noticed the patterned tile on the first floor and felt that it was a bit distracting from the merchandise itself, our eye was immediately drawn to the floor.

We wandered down to the lower level to the land of cosmetics and fragrances.  We couldn't help but notice 3 tall cylindar-like tanks that slightly resembled empty telephone booths.  Printed on the tanks was 'Editions de Parfums de Frederic Malle'.  

Apparently when you test perfumes sprayed onto paper strips at a perfume counter, the scent’s top notes grab you (the initial burst of fragrance). If your nose is hyper-sensitive you might even smell the paper.

We were told you could be missing the more subtle aspects of the fragrance — the middle notes (which occur after the top notes fade), and then the dry down (which is like the scent’s finale). To appreciate the fullness and complexity of the Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle scents, the staffsuggests we ditch the paper strips and use one of the store’s special scent chambers to fully appreciate the line.   The chambers even have fans that run once you're done to neutralize the air for the next person.  A very innovative and fun display for customers!

- Jenn Phillips, The Store

Lunch at my fingertips

Recently, my husband introduced me to the new iphone app from Chipotle.  Chipotle, the popular QSR from McDonalds Corportation has brought fast food to a new level.  The app tracks down the closest Chipotle and then allows you to go about building your burrito, burrito bowl, taco or salad, throwing in more ingredients than would be polite to ask for in the restaurant itself, and allows you to include special instructions.   The menu is quick and intuitive, even letting you store your favorites to avoid re-typing tomorrow's lunch.  Yum!

- Jenn Phillips, The Store

Superbrand Oprah takes over Magnificent Mile

Oprah hit the streets of Chicago on Tuesday to kick off the 24th season of her talk show. The city agreed to shut down a four block stretch of the Magnificent Mile for the queen of talk.   In the five hours leading up to the taping of the show, the crowds were treated to live performances and even learned a choreographed dance to the latest Black Eyed Peas single.  Not since the Macy's Day Parade have we seen this kind of hysteria for a super brand.  Proof that even retail stands still for the queen.

 

- Jenn Phillips, The Store

TJMaxx Makeover

The newly remodeled TJMaxx offers just enough style to make shoppers feel a little less like scavengers and a little more pampered.  The ambiance is upgraded with more organized merchandising, especially in housewares.  The culinary graphics and displays rival an upscale department store presentation.

Simple red brand signage reinforces the "treat yourself to a deal" positioning in each department.  Even the dressing room looks a little more Victorias Secret, a little less Filenes Basement.

 

 

  - Gwen Morrison

Buy Buy Baby opens in Chicago

This new store from Bed, Bath and Beyond uses a similar big box format with a total focus on baby.  It has everything a new mom needs and more.  The prominent gift registry and complimentary gift wrap makes it easy to get in and out for the next baby shower.

- Gwen Morrison, The Store