02 | Instrumental vs. Expressive
Evening all.
Going straight in this week. Hope there's something that floats your boat in this...
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A Japanese remedy for British town centres (FT, via Archive.is*)
Thought-provoking piece off the back of a report into 'Shinise' or family firms in Kyoto and their social importance.
"Instrumental companies have a strictly economic purpose: Sports Direct as my go-to place for socks, for instance. Expressive businesses, on the other hand, also contribute to social cohesion and local identity. They are more resilient in the face of market pressure."
*I use this for any paywall jumping. Forgive me, but I do buy the paper most weekends so I'm not entirely guilty.
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Talking of high streets, the ES Magazine mentioned that Cadogan are working with London College of Fashion students on what the future high street might look like. Presumably this high street will be Sloane Street, given the parties involved. Interesting nonetheless, and led me to this RFP from the Government. Needless to say that the big challenge for high streets lies outside of central London, but you knew that already...
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Stores of note
Soon to open Oscar de La Renta store in Paris has something utterly unique in it...
"In the arms race for the most unique! most authentic! store currently underway, when only-in-person experience is what differentiates retail from e-tail, a cultural treasure surrounded by a puzzle straight out of a Dan Brown novel may be the ultimate accessory."
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Into this funghi garden in the Older Brother store in LA.
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'Current obsession' : The Calvin Klein flagship that John Pawson designed in 1993-1995, covered in this AD article. Wonder if they regret ditching it now. I would (however much I enjoy the Sterling Ruby interior they've got now).
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A current favourite of mine, BOOKS in Peckham - covered in the local newspaper. Good on the guy who runs it. His instagram account is often hilarious too.
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Report
Some sound advice in this Shopify Ecommerce report, not least 'Nobody likes to be sold to. Everybody likes to be entertained.'
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FIN.
Last time around, there were seven of you, now there's 15. Hello to each and every one of you and thanks for reading. If you like it, send it on, tell a mate etc. etc. I've no idea where this is going, and that's fine, right?
As ever, if there's something missing from this (pictures? I'm in two minds), let me know. I'd love to make it a collaboration of sorts. Maybe we could start with you telling me your favourite store and why. Go on...
Have a nice week,
Adam.