Trend Hunter recently took a trip to the first Simons store in Ontario to talk to Peter Simons, the President and CEO of La Maison Simons, about innovation and what sets this iconic Canadian retailer apart.
The retail company was originally founded in Québec City in 1840, making it the oldest privately owned family-run retailer in the country. Tremendous success in the fashion business for well over a century is a testament to Simons' ability to adapt during times of change.
Others who want to learn from this inspiring company should take note of what Peter Simons says: "It's an exciting time, but you have to be ready to change. You have to be ready to move forward and question everything every single day." Peter Simons also notes that it's essential to look for innovation in unexpected places such as the arts, food and across cultures.
Forward-Thinking Fashion Retailers
Peter Simons of La Maison Simons Talks Retail Innovation
Trend Themes
1. Adapting to Change - Opportunities for disruptive innovation in the retail industry by embracing change and being open to new ideas and approaches.
2. Questioning Everything - Disruptive innovation opportunities in the retail industry by challenging conventional wisdom and constantly seeking new ways to improve and innovate.
3. Exploring Unexpected Sources - Disruptive innovation opportunities in retail by looking beyond traditional sources and finding inspiration for new ideas and approaches in areas such as arts, food, and cultures.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Opportunities for disruptive innovation in the retail industry by adopting new technologies, improving customer experiences, and exploring innovative business models.
2. Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunities in the fashion industry by embracing sustainable practices, leveraging technology for personalized experiences, and exploring new materials and manufacturing processes.
3. Arts & Culture - Opportunities for disruptive innovation by leveraging the power of arts and culture to inspire creativity, unique brand experiences, and cross-industry collaborations.