Arc’teryx set for European expansion

Global high-performance outdoor sports apparel and equipment manufacturer and retailer, Arc’teryx Equipment, is pushing forward with its European expansion plans with the announcement it is to open a flagship store in London.

The Canadian retailer has signed a lease for the final two retail units at The Crown Estate and The Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan’s 100 million pound Eagle Place development between Piccadilly and Jermyn Street, which will allow the outdoor specialise to open a 4,000 square foot store in August, marking the brand’s first standalone European store.

The opening of the flagship marks the start of Arc’teryx’s expansion to key cities outside its home market North America, as part of the group’s three-year investment programme by Arc’teryx’s parent company Amer Sports Group, which will see it focus on its retail partners through increased trade marketing spend, increased investment in in-store excellence and increased resource across a range of brands, including winter sports retailer Salomon and technical sports instrument supplier Suunto.

Arc’teryx to open first European store in London

Adam David Ketcheson, VP/ senior director marketing and B2C Arc’teryx said: “As we look to expand our retail presence we are focused on cities and regions where both our outdoor core community and our city-based user can touch the brand.

“London has an active community who deal with the challenges of inclement weather. It’s also a hub of fashion and design, and the minimalist aesthetic of Arc’teryx fits perfectly into the London environment and the UK outdoor community at large. In St. James’s our customers will be able to experience our commitment to design, craftsmanship and performance through our product, technologies and people."

Domenico Speciale, Amer Sports UK managing director added: “There is significant potential for future growth in London and a flagship Arc’teryx store in a renowned location like St James’s will act as a fantastic showcase for the brand as we look to increase our investment in this key market.”

Eagle Place is the first major redevelopment to be delivered through the 500 million pound, 10 year investment programme for The Crown Estate’s St James’s portfolio, and the new Arc’teryx flagship will sit alongside other lifestyle and fashion brands including Barbour International, Tiger of Sweden, Sunspel, Grosvenor Shirts and La Martina.

Image: Arc'teryx Seattle