Sport Chek has opened a new flagship store on Robson street in Vancouver, B.C. designed to engage athletes and entice customers with a high-tech approach to retail. The Vancouver opening marks the fifth Canadian store of its kind.
The store features a number of interactive screens and displays, as well as in-store ecommerce. Specifically, customers will be able to use the screens to find certain products and learn detailed information about them. There’s also a virtual golf department kiosk that recommends products based on individual need and ability.
“[Retail] has evolved so much with technology, how you can drive sales [and] drive your business,” said Eric Watt, vice president of new retail at FGL sports. “We have different types of installations, some that might inspire consumers…which might trigger a motivation from the consumer to want to buy new yoga gear or maybe skis.”
The Robson street store is the first to include motion activated screens. The displays are located near the service centre, something Watt explains is an important focus of the new location “We’re very proud of our service shop and the services we provide to the consumer,” says Watt. “[The screens] tell you a bit about what the services are and the people that do the work.”
Currently, there are two digitally advanced Sport Chek stores in the GTA. There are plans for a new one to open in 2017 in Sherway Gardens.
