A Little Saks

Saks Fifth Avenue (New York-based division of Saks Inc., Birmingham, Ala.) is reportedly considering a smaller prototype — a 10,000-square-foot store specializing in cosmetics, fragrances, hosiery, women's shoes and jewelry.

According to a report in Women's Wear Daily, the new concept would operate in markets where Saks does not currently have full-line stores (such as, the newspaper says, Oklahoma City; Nashville, Tenn.; Omaha, Neb.; Tucson, Ariz.; Baltimore, San Jose, Calif.; Salt Lake City, Milwaukee, Buffalo, N.Y.; Seattle; and Louisville and Lexington, Ky.).

Sources were quoted saying cosmetics would be given roughly 2200 square feet, while women's shoes and handbags would each have 1750 square feet.

“It's a sign Saks is looking ahead to a time when the consumer will be in a better mind-set for shopping,” WWD quoted one analyst as saying. “It could work to reinforce Saks' brand strengths, depending on the location. They could even put 5000-square-foot shops in hotels.”