It's Bienvenue for Banana Republic in Paris
Just in time for the holidays, Banana Republic today threw open its doors for its first flagship store in France, located on the renowned shopping boulevard, Champs Elysees Avenue in Paris.
The San Francisco-based chain, which is part of Gap Inc., is slowly invading Europe. Last year, the retailer opened its first European emporium in Milan. Earlier this year it opened a franchised Banana Republic store in Moscow. The company also has an e-commerce site geared just for Europe.
The two-story outlet at 22 Avenue des Champs Elysees encompasses 1,482 feet. It has a definite European style reminiscient of a luxurious Paris apartment. There is a contemporary white-and-black diamond marble floor combined with limestone, a sweeping marble staircase and an old-style elevator. French Art Deco antiques and ebony paneling round out the look.
There was a big party Wednesday night. The U.S. ambassador to France, Charles Rivkin, was there as well as Stephen Sunnucks, the president of international for Gap Inc.
This weekend, New York-style taxis with the Banana Republic name will be cruising Paris. Sounds fancier than what we have here.
Vive la difference.
