Uniqlo launches a new store concept. The new store in Maebashi, in Gunma Prefecture in Japan, is a prototype for the future Uniqlo stores, the Japanese apparel maker announced on Wednesday.
On around 2,500 square meters, the new concept combines the men’s and women’s collections from Uniqlo as well as fashion for children and babies with nine energy-saving elements that the company is testing in a store for the first time. The project was led by Chief Creative Director Kashiwa Sato. The special elements designed to reduce Uniqlo’s energy requirements were implemented in cooperation with the Japanese general contractor Takenaka Corporation. The energy-saving elements were implemented to get closer to the company’s goal of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2030.
Innovative elements to reduce energy requirements
The elements include skylights and glass facades to make the best use of natural light in combination with artificial lighting, brightness and motion sensors, solar panels and eaves to control energy consumption for lighting and air conditioning. In addition, insulation is made from 30 percent recycled clothing donated by customers, and the store’s internal temperatures are controlled by airlocks at the entrance, as well as CO2 and temperature sensors.
According to Uniqlo, the prototype in Maebashi will use around 40 percent less electricity than conventional Uniqlo stores. 15 percent of the power consumption should also be compensated by the attached solar panels.
Flowers, coffee and re. Uniqlo
Not only energy efficiency, but also the experience for customers is the focus of the new store concept. The building will function as a “true lifestyle destination,” according to the statement. In addition to the retail space, there will also be a café, flower shop, green space and children’s play area on the premises.
Another special feature is the company’s first permanent Re.Uniqlo Studio. The service for various circular economy services was launched in October 2022 and tested at various locations around the world – including Berlin.
“With the new Maebashi Minami IC Store, we have created a new kind of Uniqlo where customers can not only buy our clothes, but also come together and connect with others,” said Group Executive Officer Masahiro Endo. “Reducing our energy consumption was also a priority in the development of the store and the various technical and design features used are an important step towards meeting our 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets.”
Uniqlo Maebashi Minami IC Store will open on April 21st.