By Aimee Chanthadavong
International accessories brand Tumi will be opening its store this Thursday in the redeveloped Westfield Sydney.
Currently a brand distributed through several specialty travel retailers, this Tumi store will be the first to be opened in Australia by Busbrand, the same firm that also carries the Australian franchise license to the American apparel retailer Gap.
Simon Nankervis, Busbrand managing director, told Retailbiz that the company signed the franchise license to Tumi at the end of last year.
“We saw there was a market for a luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories brand that caters to the discerning traveller,” he said.
“In Australia, we feel Tumi is exclusive in its category. It differs from the other existing travel brands because it is a premium brand dedicated to protecting its brand integrity with innovative products and exceptional customer service,
“It is also an exclusive product offering that will only be available within branded precincts which will distinguish this customer from the more common Samsonite and Delsey brands.”
In keeping with Tumi’s principles the store will features black granite folding down from the wall to floor with Tumi imagery framed in polished stainless steel. An opulent Murano glass chandelier will hang from a coved ceiling and there will be ebony macassar finishes throughout. A handbag display box will also be projected through the glass storefront.
Additionally, the walls will be lined with a three-dimensional wall surface incorporating Tumi’s signature red gloss panelling.
“Tumi prides itself on its excellence in designing functional, innovative and durable products and for servicing its customers at the highest level. Australians can expect to receive the same quality travel products that look good, are functional, technically innovative and last whilst receiving superior service when shopping at Tumi. This is a promise that Busbrand will uphold and deliver to the Australian market,” Nankervis said.
Busbrand has also been able to secure real estate at Westfield Bondi Junction for a second Tumi store.