It’s been a long since I first begged New Balance for an Experience Store in the US. Even though I’ve been slacking on my bloggin’ (at least here), New Balance has fulfilled that wish three times over now. After opening Experience Stores in both their home in Boston, and one in Washington DC, they’ve recently opened up a third store in New York City.
The concept of these stores is a great direction for any brand in my opinion, but especially for a company with as much history as New Balance. It seems like there is a general disappointment by consumers in the way standard retail environments lack enthusiasm and knowledgeable staff, which is understandable on many levels, after all, standing in a store all day for minimum wage-like pay, doesn’t appeal to many people, even if they can hook their friends up. Taking pride in presentation and delivery of your products goes a very long way. The world may be infatuated with 140 character limits and everyone trying to be the first to show things, but as a buyer or a seller of any product or service, it’s the rapport with whoever delivers the information that really determines the value.
I’m looking forward to getting a chance to check out a New Balance Experience Store in person, hopefully soon.
You’ll have to check out Vagrant Sneaker for the rest of the pictures and some unbelievable info on the custom shoe program at this location.
