Yesterday (November 29), SEIBU, the luxury Japanese department store opened its first Malaysian outlet at The Exchange TRX in KL.
This is the third SEIBU store overseas, with the second one opened in Indonesia last year. It’s designed by UK architects HMKM and Cardy Papa, who are known for creating award-winning department store designs globally, including the Tryano in Abu Dhabi.
According to the press release, SEIBU KL’s design concept places a strong emphasis on luxury, combining elegance and vibrancy to create an atmosphere that “sparks a sense of joy and exploration”.
The new KL outlet occupies four levels and is 265,000 sq ft, where it houses over 700 luxury international brands. A feat that no other department stores in Malaysia has achieved, the press release stated.
Out of the 700, more than 100 of these brands are debuting in the Malaysian market exclusively at SEIBU KL. This includes names like Fred, Damiani, Niessing, and Pierre Hardy. Customers can also find over 100 Japanese brands to shop from.
Aside from that, beauty fans will be pleased to know that SEIBU KL houses the largest Beauty Hall in the nation, the release shared. Located on its ground floor, the hall houses 116 skincare, makeup, and cosmetics brands.
In addition, its Shoe Salon is reportedly home to the largest selection of luxury shoes and bags in a department store. Visitors can expect to find 20 premier international footwear brands, including Giuseppe Zanotti, Rupert Sanderson, and Sergio Rossi.
Similar to its other departments, SEIBU KL’s Food Hall also has local and global names to choose from for a variety of cuisines.
For example, patrons could visit the popular Kenny Hills Bakers, Mori Kohi, Wagyu Beef One-Six, Miyatake Udon, and Tarbushi Ramen. Among the restaurants debuting at SEIBU include Sushi Suzuki and La Marche.
From Japan, to Malaysia
The opening ceremony was officiated with a resounding and auspicious “Wadaiko”, a Japanese drum performance. Along with that was the breaking of the “Kagami-Biraki”, a sake ceremony symbolising a new and prosperous beginning for SEIBU KL.
In attendance were Takahashi Katsuhiko (Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia), Datuk Alfred Cheng (Chairman of SEIBU KL), Datuk Khadar Merican (Chairman of SOGO KL), Datuk Andrew Lim (Deputy Chairman of SOGO KL), Mitch Wilson (Project Director for The Exchange TRX and Head of Retail for Lendlease Malaysia), and Nobuharu Yutani (Managing Director of SEIBU KL).
Based on its press release, the collective investment in SEIBU KL is in excess of RM150 million, with the objective to create a top-tier shopping destination in Malaysia. Along with that, it reports that the store is set to provide employment opportunities for a thousand-strong workforce.
In addition to innovative and new merchandise, SEIBU is collaborating with Hiroko Takahashi to design a special collection for the department store. On top of that, she has designed Seibu’s staff uniforms, store packaging, gift items, and other contemporary elements.
For context, Hiroko is a renowned Japanese designer and artist, whose portfolio includes names like Apple, Fendi, and Adidas.
“At SEIBU, we are not just a department store but a place for you to shop, eat, drink, socialise, and even get some pampering! We aim to provide the best ‘omotenashi’ service in the Japanese way,” Yutani stated.
Dictionary time: “Omotenashi” is a Japanese expression that means to wholeheartedly look after guests.
Source: Travel Japan
“We are not just retailing products, but we hope to create a platform for you to socialise with family and friends. And most importantly, to create unforgettable moments and memories at SEIBU,” said Yutani.
Guided by its tagline, “What’s new? Be Surprised”, SEIBU aims to serve as a place of inspiration to shoppers. To achieve this, the Japanese brand is dedicated to curating great merchandise and brand experiences, featuring a distinctive fusion of Japanese craftsmanship and “omotenashi”.
Featured Image Credit: SEIBU