Paris, February 28 – The iconic BHV Marais department store, located in the heart of Paris, is preparing for a significant transformation. Six months after the integration of the Chinese fashion giant Shein, owner Frédéric Merlin has unveiled ambitious plans to reinvent the shopping experience at the historic establishment, which first opened its doors in 1856.
Ambitious Plans for a Modernized BHV
According to reports from Le Figaro, relayed by Actu Paris, Merlin’s vision aims to “write a new commercial story” for BHV Marais. The core of this reinvention involves a substantial reduction in retail space and a complete reorganization of its various departments.
The current 45,000 square meters of retail space will be scaled down to approximately 25,000 square meters. This reduction will allow for a more focused and curated offering, enhancing the overall customer journey.
Departmental Reorganization and New Offerings
A key aspect of the renovation is the strategic relocation and introduction of new product categories:
- Ground Floor: The current jewelry, leather goods, and cosmetics sections will be replaced by the store’s historical core offerings: books, gifts, and stationery.
- Basement: The DIY section will be downsized to accommodate a new 1,000 square meter food hall and a 300 square meter parapharmacy.
- First Floor: This floor will be entirely dedicated to women’s and men’s fashion.
- Second, Third, and Fourth Floors: These levels will be exclusively focused on home goods, including furniture, decoration, tableware, and culinary items.
These changes reflect a strategic move to optimize space and cater to evolving consumer demands, with a strong emphasis on the store’s heritage and new lifestyle concepts.
Future Prospects: Restaurants, Sports Facilities, and Residential Spaces
Beyond retail, Frédéric Merlin is exploring additional avenues to enhance the BHV Marais experience. Plans include the integration of restaurants and a sports facility. While the creation of a hotel is prohibited by the Marais’s conservation plan, the possibility of developing residential apartments is being considered.
This comprehensive renovation project signals a new chapter for BHV Marais, aiming to solidify its position as a vibrant and essential shopping destination in the Marais district, offering a blend of tradition and modernity.
The transformation comes at a time when traditional department stores are seeking innovative ways to attract and retain customers in an increasingly competitive retail landscape.
The exact timeline for the renovation and the detailed implementation schedule are yet to be fully disclosed, but the announcement has generated considerable interest in the future of this Parisian landmark.
Source: sortiraparis.com
