Parisian department store La Samaritaine is set to finally reopen its doors on Saturday, June 19, after undergoing extensive renovations. The iconic building, located in the heart of Paris, was initially purchased by the LVMH group in 2001 but had been closed since 2005. After years of administrative appeals and extensive renovation work, the site was finally unveiled to the press in 2019. Unfortunately, the planned opening in April 2020 was postponed due to the unforeseen circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic and its economic impact.
The renovated La Samaritaine will showcase a magnificent blend of Art-Deco and Art-Nouveau aesthetics across its sprawling 20,000 square meters. The department store will house approximately 600 brands, including 40 exclusive ones from luxury powerhouses such as LVMH, Kering, and Richemont. Visitors can expect dedicated spaces for women’s shoes, jewelry, menswear, sneakers, and an impressive beauty section spanning over 3,000 square meters. In addition to the retail spaces, the complex will also feature offices, private apartments, and even a crèche.
Initially, LVMH had intended for tourists to make up a significant portion of La Samaritaine’s customer base, with the expectation that they would generate a majority of the store’s commercial revenue. Before the pandemic hit, there were estimates that the revamped La Samaritaine could potentially bring in annual revenue exceeding €500 million. Such figures would place it in direct competition with the highly successful Galeries Lafayette’s Haussmann branch in Paris. However, considering the current circumstances, the first round of financial reports may not reflect this high level of business.
Nevertheless, with its reopening timed just before the start of the summer sales season, La Samaritaine is determined to draw customers not only from Paris but from all corners of France and Europe. The department store has launched an enticing seduction operation, aiming to provide shoppers with an unforgettable and unique experience. This long-awaited reopening is an important landmark for LVMH, adding yet another prestigious establishment to its already impressive luxury conglomerate.
Useful links:
1. LVMH Official Website
2. Galeries Lafayette Official Website
