Galeries Lafayette, an esteemed French retail group, has taken a significant step forward in the world of experiential retail by launching Eataly in the fashionable Marais district of Paris. This move marks the foray of Galeries Lafayette into a new era of retail, offering a one-of-a-kind fusion of an Italian market and cooking concept with a strong emphasis on dining experiences.
Spanning an impressive 4,000 square-meters, Eataly Marais stands as the very first Eataly outlet in France. Diverging from the traditional Eataly format, this Parisian establishment leans more towards the restaurant side, boasting seven distinct dining venues that range from cozy pizzerias to chic modernist spaces. The lower level houses a classic Osteria del Vino, featuring an extensive collection of over 1,200 labels of Italian wines. Additionally, the space flaunts marble bars and nine specialty counters that display an array of Italian delicacies, with seating available for up to 400 patrons.
More than just a culinary destination, Eataly Marais holds strategic ties with BHV, another prominent store under the Galeries Lafayette umbrella. The decision to unveil Eataly Marais was partly motivated by the necessity to draw foot traffic back to BHV following the closure of a nearby street by the Paris mayor in 2016. Philippe Houzé, the chairman of Galeries Lafayette, sees Eataly Marais as a pivotal avenue to lure customers to BHV, projecting approximately 8,500 daily visitors and a million visitors annually.
The debut of Eataly Marais arrives on the heels of the inauguration of a flagship store on the illustrious Champs Elysées, underscoring Galeries Lafayette’s dedication to providing top-notch products and unparalleled experiential offerings to its clientele. Philippe Houzé expresses his delight for the Italian gastronomy showcased at Eataly, remarking on the happiness it brings to individuals. With a strong focus on delivering immersive experiences, the store offers cooking classes, authentic Italian goods, and a diverse array of dining choices to cater to varying preferences.
Founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti, Eataly has grown into a globally recognized brand with 35 locations across the world. The essence of Eataly transcends mere food provision, encompassing an immersive encounter that celebrates the love for Italian cuisine. The inauguration of Eataly in Paris underscores a spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange between Italy and France, as emphasized by Farinetti during the grand opening celebrations.
Ultimately, the introduction of Eataly in central Paris heralds a fresh chapter for Galeries Lafayette, underscoring its commitment to furnishing customers with distinctive experiential offerings that transcend conventional retail norms. The marriage of Italian culinary prowess with French flair and ingenuity crafts a truly enchanting experience bound to captivate both local residents and global visitors alike.
Sources:
1. Architectural Digest – Eataly Debuts at Galeries Lafayette
2. Retail Detail – Galeries Lafayette opens the first Eataly in Paris
