Albaray opens its first physical retail store in Chichester
Albaray, the digital-first womenswear brand established by a team of former directors of Warehouse, will open the doors of its first physical retail store in Chichester tomorrow.
The 1,300 sq ft shop is based in a prime location on the West Sussex town's high street, which was considered to be an "ideal location" for the brand due to its aligned demographic, developed infrastructure and transport links.
Shoppers will be able to browse and shop a curated selection of the brand’s latest collections and unique items designed specifically for the store.
In keeping with Albaray's sustainable ethos the store, the brand worked with Jungle Fit collective, an award-winning commercial store design and fit-out company that prioritises people and the planet in the way it operates, including a carbon neutral approach and using eco-friendly materials such as Coat paint.
Albaray was launched in 2021 by Paula Stewart, Karen Peacock and Kirstie Di Stazio. The trio had been part of the top management team at Warehouse, which was placed into administration during the pandemic and which was subsequently sold to Boohoo Group, under which it operates as an online-only brand.
Kirstie Di Stazio, Paula Stewart and Karen Peacock
The brand aims to create a versatile, effortless collection "made with care that will not cost the earth". As well as a direct to consumer site, which now ships internationally, the brand is also available via Next.co.uk, M&S.com and via 26 John Lewis stores nationwide and on its website. It also has a number of independent retail partners.
Paula Stewart, Co-founder & CEO, said of the latest development: “As Albaray moves towards its 3rd anniversary (in March), we are thrilled to be opening our first store. Albaray is a digital-first brand; however, through our high-street brand partners, we have seen the vast benefits a physical presence can offer.
"I am excited to develop our store environment and get even closer to our customers. In the digital age, it is vital not to lose the direct interaction and relationships a store can offer. The insights you can discover directly from your customers and the local community are invaluable. A blended approach to retailing was always our ambition, and we are thrilled that we are embarking on this journey."
Albaray aims to foster a sense of community and drive greater awareness of the brand and the way it consciously operates. Workshops and events and partnering with local artists and craftspeople are all planned activities that will enhance the store's offer and help create a positive impact locally.
Kirstie Di Stazio, Co-founder & Chief Commercial Officer added: “The high street has seen a huge transformation over the last few years; this change has presented many challenges for retailers. It has also created opportunity, and we couldn't be more excited to take our first steps into bricks and mortar. Albaray is London-based, however, we deliberately selected a location away from the city that will allow us to develop our store environment and work directly with the local community. We are a small brand with big ambitions, and this milestone moment is key for our future growth."
Karen Peacock, who is Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer commented: "Our first ever store is not just a retail space but a platform to showcase the brand, inspire customers and help educate them to make mindful choices. We believe fashion should be effortless, work hard, inspire, and be made responsibly, and we are excited to share this vision with the Chichester community."
