A favourite of Princess Kate Middleton Duchess of Cambridge, British fashion brand Reiss plans to expand across Canada. The retailer has signed a number of free-standing store leases and it has also struck a concession partnership with Hudson’s Bay.
Founded in London by David Reiss in 1971, the contemporary-priced, youthful brand sells women’s and men’s apparel, as well as accessories and footwear. The company recently launched made-to-measure men’s suits at selected locations. The company continues to be solely owned by Mr. Reiss.
Reiss has chosen Toronto as its Canadian launchpad. Its first Canadian location, measuring about 2,500 square feet, opened late last month at Toronto Eaton Centre. According to the company, two Toronto locations will follow in 2016 — at Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Sherway Gardens.
Reiss has also partnered with Hudson’s Bay. This month, Reiss opened men’s and women’s concession within Hudson’s Bay’s Queen Street/Toronto Eaton Centre flagship. The company says that other concessions could follow as it continues to examine opportunities.
Longer term, Reiss has big plans for Canada. According to a company representative, Canada is “an exciting new market for Reiss, and we are already looking at opportunities to extend our store, online and concession offer.” The company also said that it is examining a number of cities to possibly open free-standing stores, including Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary.
Reiss is seeking retail space in the 2,500 square foot to 3,500 square foot range, ideally in busy shopping centres. Larger locations are ideal, as they allow the brand to showcase its comprehensive men’s and women’s collections.
