Payless opens first concept store in Florida

Topeka, Kansas-based footwear chain Payless ShoeSource is set to open its first redesigned concept store in North America on Monday in Miami, Florida.

The 4,000-square-foot concept store will embrace technology in various ways with new high-tech touchpoints integrated throughout the in-store experience.

The concept store will introduce Augmented Reality (AR) capabilities that will be available in both English and Spanish. A first-of-its-kind AR foot measurement chart and floor decal, comprising 16 individual 3D animated characters and 16 2D animal footprints, will equally be found in store along with a subsequent multiple-choice quiz and photo feature.

Moreover, Payless will feature interactive touchscreen wall panels as well as sleek color palettes, modern neon lighting, and signage that will allow for a unique and personalized customer experience.

Likewise, the exterior of the concept store will spotlight a new community mural, inspired by the diversity of Miami. It was designed by Amaranta Martinez, better known as Superama, who is a local, award-winning artist.

"The traditional brick-and-mortar storefront isn't going anywhere, but recent times have demanded the need for a new 360-degree immersive retail experience," said Jared Margolis, CEO of Payless.

"Our plan has always been to make a comeback for our U.S. consumers with brand new smart and strategic retail locations that are also in line with our omnichannel strategy. We have maintained a strong retail presence having 700 stores throughout Latin/Central America, Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Middle East and India, and now with the opening of our Miami store, we're excited to continue to embrace the diverse communities here within the States and provide the best in value and style to customers both in-store and online.”

Payless emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time in January 2020. It filed for bankruptcy in February 2019, which resulted in the closure of its last 2,500 North American stores. Prior to that, the company had filed for Chapter 11 in 2017, shuttering nearly 700 stores and cutting $435 million in debt.

The Payless Miami location is expected to be the first of a series of retail openings in the North American market. The company said that it was “confidently moving forward” with plans to implement an omnichannel experience through its online and brick-and-mortar stores in the next three to five years.

Payless opens first concept store in Florida

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