2017Issue4_Alabama_v3_COVER_Proof

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OUTSIDE THE BOX NEW RETAIL PERSPECTIVES

No one can sell just one category anymore. The solution for fast fashion retailer H&M is a new concept called Arket, which offers a curated assortment of apparel and home accessories, all of which is offered at slightly higher prices than H&M. Some Arket stores, opening in London, Brussels, Copenhagen and Munich, will also have cafes. Meanwhile the company is planning to open stand alone H&M Home stores next year. Branching Out

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When in Rome

For any retailer who thinks they’ve had a hard time with zoning restrictions, consider McDonald’s which recently opened a restaurant just outside the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Square. The company had to suffer some fire and brimstone from Cardinals who objected to the Golden Arches 100 yards from the Pope’s residence. But as it turns out, the Vatican owns the building and will be collecting rent of about $33,000 per month.

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Spacing Out

BOUNTY

Instead of using the backroom to store cartons, mops and carts, retailers could use the space to grow food. An experiment in urban farming or “aquaponics” is taking place in Brooklyn, New York where several companies are growing tilapia in old warehouses. One company called Edenworks is even using the waste produced by the fish to fertilize racks of LED-lit vegetable crops. Local enough for you? BACKROOM

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If you’re wondering what to do with that little bit of extra space or alcove in your store, Staples has come up with a unique solution. The chain is now offering co-working spaces at their stores in Boston, branded as Workbar at Staples. It’s targeting millennials and small businesses with upgraded workstation at $130 per month for unlimited use. Maybe supermarkets can sell them lunch or dinner while they work?

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