Spring is about rejuvenation, restoration, and renewal, so it is only fitting to see the rebirth of Tristan’s flagship store at Yorkdale Mall occur in this season of flowering growth.
Like a single budding rose, the space isn’t as large as the one the company used to hold at Yorkdale; however, it appears that Tristan actively chooses to forgo expansive spaces which house endless lines of clothing and opts for a more intimate, boutique style shop.
Founding President Gilles Fortin understands the necessity of evolution. Since the store first opened at Yorkdale in 1986, he has observed the changing tides of the industry and is perceptive to where to cast the direction of the company’s sails. He is realistic in his tone but optimistic: The move to a smaller location was an economic one. Fortin says you end up losing your cache in a large space. With an influx of American stores setting up shop in Canada, it was to Tristan’s benefit to be more space conscious with the new store’s design and layout and rise above the competition with this strategy.
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Upon entering the boutique shop, it is apparent the lofty space evokes style, grace, with a bit of edginess and fun; it is a reflective compliment to their fashion aesthetic. Its high ceilings, snow-white walls, and eco-friendly, reconstituted hardwood floor from DAVA all lend a hand in creating the perfect environment for shoppers to peruse the racks of garments.
On this wavelength of reinvention and purposeful design, LED lights shine over the pieces and highlight the true, vibrant colours of the clothing. As well, in an effort to maximize the space, the store has patents pending for custom fitting room designs and foldable registers. With only specific pieces present and the clutter removed, returning clientele will appreciate owning unique pieces attuned to their needs and new shoppers will be aware of the Canadian fashion mogul’s distinct personality.
To Fortin, it is obvious that the flagship store remains at Yorkdale; to him, it is the gold standard of malls in Canada. Yorkdale garners much foot traffic and Tristan wants to continue its healthy, long-standing relationship with it. Although the landscape may have changed, Tristan has remained true to its Canadian roots, but has been flexible in reinventing itself to combat the influx of retail competition.
Lily, Fortin’s daughter, states that their clientele (and prospective ones) will welcome this change. She describes their shoppers as intelligent, perceptive, and sophisticated. Even as seasons come and go, one of Tristan’s hallmarks of success is their clients’ loyalty to them. With a cultivation of good taste, much of what they seek is found at Tristan. In this new space, there will be continued growth with more personalized and enjoyable shopping experiences. Ooh la la!
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