We've dreamed of exploring the re-imagined
upcycling concept store
Merci since it launched in 2009. But we are continually amazed at how few people acknowledge it as a game-changer in retail. Sure, retailers have been gaining positive press and good juju for partnering with not-for-profit companies across the globe (think Nordstrom's
Treasure & Bond in NYC or Oxfam's Charity pop-up shop at Selfridges in London), but it's Merci's transparent, multi-tiered strategy to give back to communities that we feel puts them at the forefront of socially aware consumerism.
Marie-France Cohen, former Bonpoint founder, actively pays-it-forward by giving 100% of Merci's profits of high-end products, designer collaborations, and cafe sales to a charity for underprivileged women and children in Madagascar. This retail revolution intersects food and beverage, price-point, and limited-time sensibilities by forfeiting profit margins in favor of unique lifestyle offerings that resonates across consumer demographics.
The September 2011 installation rallies to raise money and hope by highlighting essential design in Japan. Messaging within the center atrium of the sun-lit loft does not include the references to earthquake, devastation, or tsunami, but the intent is sharp and clear. Over 200 works are organized around the Japanese concept of 'sugao', translated as 'true face' or 'as it is' (from the word 'su' meaning 'unadorned' and signifying an appreciation of simplicity', and 'gao' meaning face').
Set in a beautiful venue, browse from room to room just like in a real house. Skincare by Aesop, office staples from Japanese brand Muji, and limited-edition bracelets using reworked Liberty of London deadstock are all featured on the main floor.
On the lower level, the diverse range of goods, from minimalist tin tableware to playful recycled composite cups and bowls, create an inspired vintage-lux theme. The “refined flea market” feel is punctuated with both vintage looking collectibles and household staples.
Fixtures within the housewares and apparel departments are arranged by need state in complete arrangements for themed dinners or must-have outfits. Seldom did we see a categoric theme represented - with a table of all shirts or an assortment of bowls. This tactic draws the customer closer to the products "livability".
The womens apparel space, located on the second floor, echoes the goal of Merci: offering niche-market, high-priced luxury items alongside a broad range of affordable designer daily items. French favorites like Isabel Marant and Repetto are intermixed with international brands like Marni, Forintini + Baker, and Stella McCartney. A tiny gold medallion denotes special styles or products across all departments that are exclusive to Merci.
The upper-loft includes furniture (and design consulting), installation related merchandise (more notebooks from Muji and cool office supplies), and home accessories (such as pillows, throws and lighting). The ever changing, open and welcoming ambience is a interior-lover’s dream.
As people generally desire to support the less fortunate and improve their society, but have limited income earmarked towards charitable donation, charitable retailers like Merci allows consumers to give and get. This win-win situation has an upside bonus for retailers, by strengthening the brands image through its social responsibility, while simultaneously gaining trust and respect with consumers.
We love the creative approach to consumerism with a conscious at Merci. We believe that many businesses can gain insights from the cause-related messaging, LTO offerings, and merchandising savvy. If you are hungry for more specifics,
please give us a call.
