Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser.

U.S. toy retailers (R.I.P. Toys "R" Us) trying to survive may learn from those around the world managing to thrive. Following the success of their existing multi-unit, Kuwait-based toy retailer Fantasy World (which recently opened a JGA-designed store in Al Kout, Kuwait's largest waterfront retail and leisure destination), Fantasy World owners just launched an additional toy store concept called Rocket World in Shuwaikh, Kuwait. Rocket World was created specifically to fill a need among today's teens, young adults and the young-at-heart hunting for unique and quirky gifting options that aren't currently in the market. It carries selective brands such as Pylones, a French gift shop chain that is famous for its rare and funky gifts. JGA-designed Rocket World is extremely vibrant, alive and fun - the aisles are designed to be maze-like, which means you can see everything (including the astronaut uniform-wearing staff), and navigating is an adventure in itself.

Beginning as a single U.S. location in Chicago, Gloria Jean's has grown into a global powerhouse brand, particularly as the dominant coffee brand of Australia, and is increasingly expanding worldwide throughout Europe, North America, Middle East, Asia and the South Pacific .The JGA-designed prototype focuses on Gloria Jean's unique commitment to its espresso-based approach to coffees, recognizing the "hot pot" as the anti-coffee delivery method. The store environment provides a barista bar where you can pull up a stool, engage in conversation, watch the process, and be part of the social destination. The placement of the bar not as a back counter with a series of appliances, but rather in the center of the space, creates a shrine to the art of coffee making, which was a unique and bold step for the Gloria Jean's brand.

- Crain's: First major retail center in more than a decade planned - JGA-designed Rocket World in the Kuwait Times - FRDC Indian Fashion Report 2018 features JGA contribution - JGA to Detroit Free Press on new retail development concept

It goes without saying that the retail marketplace has truly become a global one in recent years. At the same time, retail, particularly mass retail, also remains remarkably local. Size and scale is not simply enough for companies to succeed on a global basis and the failures of some of the biggest companies (Tesco in the U.S., Walmart in South Korea, Target in Canada and Carrefour in India) underscores this fact…

FOLLOW JGA

Subscribe to Retail Focus Online, change your subscription preferences, or forward a copy. Click here to unsubscribe. JGA®, 29110 Inkster Road, Suite 200, Southfield MI 48034 USA Phone 248-355-0890 Copyright 2018 JGA®, Inc. All rights reserved.