Barneys New York CEO Announces Plans for Retailer
Ch-ch-ch-changes. Barneys CEO Mark Lee has finally started to unveil his plans for the retailer, beyond the massive personnel changes that have rocked the gossip and media columns, WWD reports.
In a lengthy rundown of what's in store for the retailer, Lee reveals what customers, editors and designers can expect in the next year or two.
Prada is, yes, out, but only the womenswear and handbag collections (shoes and menswear are safe). Citing a lease issue (Lee said “the entire meaning of Barneys would be lost,") the handbag space formerly occupied by the Italian brand is being taken over by exclusive brand Valextra. Azzedine Alaïa will move into the ready-to-wear vacancy.
The main floor of the Madison Avenue flagship along with the men's Co-op will be renovated this year.
And a new campaign is launching, with backstage images from the spring shows, coinciding with the just-launched editorial microsite on the Barneys Web site.
To read about the rest of Lee's plans, including his thoughts on hiring editorial talent in traditional retail roles, visit WWD.
