New Yorkers to get a (smaller) taste of Cost Plus

A soon-to-open Cost Plus World Market store in Manhattan could serve as a blueprint for the company's expansion in other urban areas.

The value-priced specialty retailer will open a prototype store on Aug. 20, in the city’s Chelsea neighborhood. At 5,000 square feet, it is Cost Plus’ first small-scale store (a typical Cost Plus is about 15,000 square feet).

“The store is a great way to introduce the Cost Plus World Market brand to New York customers, who may not be familiar with our assortment of unique and affordable home furnishings. We have no doubt that once a customer discovers us, they’ll become a frequent and loyal customer,” said Barry Feld, CEO of Cost Plus World Market, which operates 270 stores in 33 states.

Cost Plus offers a broad and unique assortment of home goods, including furniture, textiles, ceramics and glassware, home décor, jewelry and accessories and global food and wines in its 260-plus stores across the U.S.

However, the new Chelsea store will focus solely on living, dining and bedroom furniture, lighting, an expanded rug assortment including one-of-a-kind antique rugs from Turkey, small décor pieces and throw pillows. The store will also offer New York-area customers the opportunity to see in person select online-only offerings, including custom upholstery furniture with fabric swatch samples available to take and view in their home.

Source: Retailing Today