We were recently invited (thanks Darren!) to the grand re-opening of the Future Shop in West Vancouver. The store was revamped to follow the new "hub" concept. Future Shop, which was bought by Best Buy in 2001, is currently Canada’s largest consumer electronics retailer (wiki).

The grand re-opening included a red carpet, a catered assortment of snacks, wine & even gift bags. Despite the untimely breakdown of the A/C it was a great event and a chance to look around the new store concept. Although the store is mostly the same, there are a few new changes. Primarily you notice this in layout – with sections spiraling off a central hub, and with the addition of the integrated Apple Store.

So, will this new store concept have a positive impact on the bottom line? It’s hard to say. I think for those people already shopping at Future Shop, it will improve the experience and offer more products. However, I’m not sure I’d be compelled to go to Future Shop vs Best Buy. And if I were in the market for a Mac, I’d shop at Apple. That said, I think having an integrated Apple Store will go a long way to upselling customers who are looking for laptops but have not pre-decided on a mac. 

Check out the reviews from some other Vancouver bloggers:

• Derek Miller (aka penmachine) – "Can Future Shop Distinguish Itself?"
• Roland Tanglao – "FutureShop redux – how about an "All Genius" Staff?"
• John Biehler – "Future Shop gets an Apple Store"
• Gregg Scott – "Is The Hub The Future of Shop?"
• Raul (aka hummingbird604) – "A bunch of geeks at the Future Shop Park Royal opening"
• Tris Hussey – "Future Shop Park Royal Highlights the Connected Home and Tech Coolness"

If I missed anyone, drop in your link!

Tags: future shop, vancouver, futureshop, electronics store, hub store