Kiehl’s since 1851, the New York City-based apothecary and creator of fine quality skin and hair care, opened its doors at The Forum Koramangala, Bangalore recently. Uzma Irfan, Director of Corporate Communications, Prestige Group graced the afternoon as the Guest of Honour. Launched on ‘Store of the Future’ concept, the brand chose the cult favourite skin care line ‘Calendula’ as their theme for the launch. Kiehl’s old-world, customer-centric heritage has been at the heart of every product and service debut over the company’s 168-year history – from ingredient research and formula safety testing to localized store decors– all of which are tailored to the particular needs of patrons in their local communities. The brand is known for its attentive, educational environment that offers tried-and-true skin care products enjoyed by customers the world over.
The Bangalore store was transformed to bring the spirit of ‘Calendula which is synonymous to replenishing and soothing skin’ to the community. At the store, the old-world apothecary aesthetic infused with modern elements that reflect both the surrounding community are a nod to the company’s New York roots in the City’s East Village neighborhood. Upon entering the unique space, you are instantly immersed in the company’s long history and eccentric character: hints of the Kiehl’s heritage are everywhere, including photographs of the original New York Flagship, Kiehl’s founding family and company-sponsored adventures. Historic elements surprise and delight you, including a Kiehl’s famed “Mr. Bones” skeleton. No two Kiehl’s stores are exactly alike, yet each exudes Kiehl’s rich apothecary tradition. Kiehl’s Bangalore store location will bring the spirit of the original New York City-based apothecary to the community in a retail environment and offers store characteristics, such as sampling station, gifting area and service hub.
“We are so delighted to have this opportunity to serve the Bangalore community in a new Kiehl’s store environment. This new store design expresses the vitality of the brand’s heritage within an enlightened and revolutionary retail environment. We as brand are assured that this new portfolio of exciting calendula products and the second store in Bangalore will continue to strengthen the market share of Kiehl’s in India, and bring about new growth in the business. This store corresponds to our willingness to increase the brand’s presence and visibility in the Indian market,“ said Shikhee Agrawal, AVP, Kiehl’s India. Along with its unique store environments, Kiehl’s since 1851 remains true to its heritage by offering unsurpassed customer service at each of its stores worldwide. Every Kiehl’s customer representative is proficient in the company’s service techniques and educated not only in formula ingredients but, in tandem with the company’s pharmaceutical traditions, possesses the knowledge to prescribe specific treatments and product regimens that offer customers solutions tailored for their individual skin and hair needs. In addition, as with all Kiehl’s stores, the new Bangalore location proudly continues Kiehl’s unique “try before you buy” sampling initiative, initially conceptualised more than 92 years ago at the original Flagship Store, as well as its hassle-free return policy. These initiatives have set Kiehl’s apart from its competitors in the marketplace and have long characterised the company in the eyes of its most loyal fans.
