The Future of Retail debuts in London

The world’s most advanced retail store opened its doors on Oxford Street this week, ahead of its official launch on 30 October 2024, heralding a new era that blends the latest technology powered by Intel®, bricks and mortar as well as state of the art graphics.

As such Future Stores is set to change what it means to shop with a bold £20 million investment, transforming traditional retail into a dynamic, interactive experience -a first for London and globally.

Located on Europe’s busiest shopping street, Future Stores offers a personalized experience that’s as fluid as a social media feed, featuring a rotating lineup of brand ‘showcases’ or ‘activations’ that will change every two to six weeks.

Intel® is the first brand to take on the space, and will host an interactive, immersive and technology fuelled activation. Consumers can get hands on with Intel’s newly launched AI PCs and play exciting games live in store from the 30 October 2024.

Upon entering the two-floor, immersive space, that spans an entire Oxford Street block, shoppers are met with 400m² of stunning high-definition Micro LED displays, monumental billboards, and cameras. Here, consumers connect with brands through live demos, tutorials, and showcases led by influencers and creators, turning each visit into a vivid, shared experience.

This experience is also complemented by rich insight and data, that shows, dwell time, customer journey as well as traffic both inside and outside the store. Other measurements such as gender and sentiment will be quick to follow in the New Year.

Future Stores approach is unique. It offers retailers and brands a tailor-made shopping environment like no other ever-evolving, and always in sync with the latest trends.

“Today’s shoppers are driven by TikTok-length attention spans, and traditional retail simply can’t keep up with Gen Z and Gen Alpha,” explains Ariel Haroush, founder and chair of Future Stores. “Our concept is the answer—an electrifying blend of creativity, technology, and multi-sensory design that feels like stepping into the Future. It’s about giving consumers and brands what they crave: an engaging, meaningful experience.”

Engin Celikbas, managing director EMEA of Future Stores, underscores the pivotal role of data in modern retail. “Today, leveraging data to create personalized experiences isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. This insight allows us to engage with consumers on a deeper level, enhancing conversion rates and boosting customer satisfaction.”

By harnessing the power of data, brands can create meaningful connections that drive conversation and visibility.  With research showing that 90% of major brands find brand experiences/pop-ups highly effective in increasing sales and recognition.

Future Stores offers an unparalleled opportunity for brands to connect with audiences both on the high street and across digital channels at the right time, in the right place and use the power of data and Ai digital interface to optimize conversion.

As the retail landscape evolves, Future Stores stands at the forefront, offering a model that combines physical and digital shopping in a way that resonates with the next generation. With 74% of UK sales still occurring in-store, this hybrid model caters to digitally influenced consumers.

By 2027, retail media is projected to rival social media in ad spend, expected to reach $109.4 billion in the US alone.

“Intel’s commitment to pioneering innovation is matched by our dedication to collaboration, so we are excited to work with Future Stores as the first to take up residence on Oxford Street. The store is powered by Intel Core™ processors and from October 30 consumers will be able to experience AI PC in person.” – Steve Shakespeare, Sales Director, Intel.

London will be the first to host this innovative retail destination, but expansion plans are already in motion for Paris and New York, with a second London site under consideration. Oxford Street, now attracting nearly 500,000 daily visitors*, provides the perfect backdrop for Future Stores’ vision of retail’s next frontier.

“Consumers today demand more than just convenience—they want immersive, meaningful interactions that bring the best of digital and physical shopping together. Future Stores delivers on this promise by creating dynamic, ever-changing experiences that not only captivate but also empower the shopper. It’s this blend of technology and human connection that will define the next era of retail, allowing brands to stay agile while truly understanding and engaging their customers.” — Kate Hardcastle MBE, Independent Consumer Champion.

Dee Corsi, chief executive at New West End Company, said: “Future Stores’ unique blend of retail and digital innovation makes it a fantastic addition to Oxford Street, which now boasts immersive retail and cultural attractions stretching from Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch. These experiences have been highly successful in boosting footfall and creating a vibrant atmosphere along the street. More than just a shopping district, it is clear that Oxford Street is undergoing an exciting period of transformation, bolstering new openings fit for a world-class retail, hospitality and leisure destination”.

Places for London, Transport for London’s property company, who own the retail units being used as part of this innovative retail offering, has worked with Future Stores to make this new concept a reality in the heart of London. The store is easily accessible via the adjacent Tottenham Court Road station.

Samantha Bain-Mollison, Head of Retail at Places for London, said: “Future Stores is unlike anything else we’ve had on our estate, and it shows that we welcome innovative and creative businesses that redefine the boundaries of retail. We’re excited to welcome Future Stores to our estate and we look forward to seeing this innovative addition open its doors to Londoners and visitors from across the world.”