Proclaiming itself to be “like no other store in the world,” the American department store Bloomingdale’s ventures outside of the U.S. for the first time in 138 years with its opening in Dubai.
As the outlet was unveiled earlier this week, the U.S. Chief Executive of Bloomingdale’s Michael Gould said, “This is more than a place that sells merchandise. It is an experience. It is the DNA of Bloomingdale’s that separates us from other stores. There are a number of great brands around the world but the energy and spirit that supports us in Dubai, as it has done in New York, is what makes us different.”
In 2007, this New York-based chain, which consists of more than 40 stores across the U.S., decided to branch out to the Middle East with a $73.5M deal with the Middle East’s largest luxury retailer Al Tayer Group.
Michael Gould stated, “We feel very good about Dubai. The energy and excitement in this store is absolutely incredible. What we believe in is a lifestyle. We are of the moment and we came to Dubai because it was young, had a vibrant economy … and was alive. Everything we sell in store you can buy online but what you will get in store is the greatest feeling of 59th Street.”
The Chief Executive of Al Tayer Insignia, who brokered this deal, Shireen al Khatib said, “Bloomingdale’s is iconic, a national store with an international reputation. We felt by working with them, we would be bringing the best of America to Dubai. Most stores in Dubai carry the same merchandise but the experience is unique.”
This three-story Bloomingdale’s outlet has about 200,000 square feet of floor space selling fashionwear, furniture and accessories with a “street of shops” containing an ice-cream parlor and the Magnolia Bakery from Sex and the City. This Bloomingdale’s outlet, located in Dubai Mall, will offer brands that are not available at stores in the U.S. from makeup by Illamasqua and Jenny Packham bridal wear to McQ by Alexander McQueen. The outlet has hired about 527 staff members from over 40 different nationalities and will also include labels such as Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, La Mer, Kiehl’s beauty creams, Armani children’s wear, and Jimmy Choo shoes and bags, which is now open.
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