In January, Nordstrom announced the exciting news that it would be opening its second full-line store in the Twin Cities this October at Ridgedale. Yesterday, more details were shared by the company at a private luncheon with members of the local media, which revealed a store ready to test out Nordstrom’s newest forward-thinking concepts—with the flexibility to adjust to the Minnetonka shopper as time goes on.
Among the highlights:
- At 140,000 square feet and two levels, it’s about half the size of its 210,000-square-foot, three-floor store at the Mall of America, which opened in 1992 when the megamall first debuted.
- Unlike its Mall of America counterpart, the new store will eschew carpeted sections dedicated to different departments within the store in favor of an all-tile floor—allowing for departments to give the store “the flexibility to adjust and evolve departments” and and imbue shoppers with “a sense of discovery,” according to a press release.
- The store’s design will incorporate plenty of natural light in order to give it an air of openness.
- The new store will be help test the company’s new beauty concept, which is designed to remove barriers and “create a press-free zone” between customers and the products. The concept includes a Play Bar, where customers can try products out, and Trending Now, where shoppers can check out the latest beauty trends, as well as a section dedicated to “mini must-haves” (smaller sizes of popular products that allow the customer to try the product before committing to purchasing the full-size version). A beauty concierge and beauty advisors will also be on hand for customers to discuss their specific needs.
- The kids’ department will be outfitted with an interactive kids’ playhouse as well as includes interactive video games on a large-screen TV—another new concept that has been rolled out in a few Nordstrom stores.
- The store will be testing out a curbside pickup service in which shoppers can shop online and pick up merchandise at the store. Other technological additions include mobile checkout (allowing on-the-go shoppers to be checked out right in the fitting room) and e-receipts.
- The store will include two food offerings: Ruscello (an Italian-inspired cafe with a full bar) and an espresso bar with takeaway food options. Keep your eyes open for artwork by Minnesota artists, including Betsy Ruth Byers and Duane Ditty.
- While Nordstrom’s PR reps said there will introduce some new brands at the Ridgedale location, they’re mum on specifics. Personally, I’m crossing my fingers for an expanded Topshop section.
The store is set to open on Friday, October 2. In the meantime, mark your calendars for the opening gala held at the new store on September 30. Tickets (which go on sale June 15) are $100, but Nordstrom is underwriting the entire cost of the event and will donate all proceeds from ticket sales to Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota and PACER Center. The party includes cocktails, food, dessert, live entertainment, men’s and women’s fashion presentations, and the first chance to see and shop the store.
A rendering of Nordstrom Ridgedale’s south entry
Courtesy Nordstrom
