Portland and New York are the only recipients of the latest Puma concept store, but since New York already has three or four, we’ll talk about Nike’s latest competition in the 503 area code.
Situated across from Powell’s on NW 10th, the new store is an attempt to mirror the Puma website, with a broad array of clothing and shoes. The most unique feature, though, is that the entirety of the store, from the display cases to the fixtures to the shelving, comes in a large red shoebox of shipping container dimensions. It takes three days to unpack the container, which then becomes the checkout station.
The inventory is also a departure. In addition to shoes, the store will also carry brands such as Golf, Pelé and Evisu. According to Paolo Luchetta of RetailDesign SRL, the designer of the concept, the new setup is intended to, “create not just another Puma concept store, but a place where the Puma energy was evident. I wanted to promote city style in a place that encourages casual shopping.”
–Will Levin
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