US footwear and apparel retailer Foot Locker has revealed a new retail concept designed to improve shopping experience and customer service.  

The new format, which debuted at the Willowbrook Mall in Wayne, New Jersey, US, will serve as a blueprint for future stores worldwide.  

This reinvented concept features a modern layout that facilitates an intuitive shopping journey, encouraging exploration and easy navigation for customers. 

The store's entrance also features a new section that showcases the latest sneaker (trainer) releases and trending products.  

At the heart of the store is the Communal Try-On Area, a new communal zone, which fosters connection within the sneaker community.  

The store’s Sneaker Hub offers a unique experience with services such as specialised lacing customisation, expanded Omni ordering options, and personalised FLX experiences. 

The new concept is part of Foot Locker's broader strategy to 'Power Up the Portfolio,' a critical component of the Lace Up Plan introduced in March last year. 

Insights gained from this new store will shape the future of Foot Locker's retail experience, aiming to create a scalable omnichannel presence across both Foot Locker and Kids Foot Locker brands. 

The retailer will open additional locations of the new store concept in 2024, including the brand's 34th Street flagship location in New York City.  

Globally, Foot Locker store concepts will be opened in Melbourne, Paris, and Delhi over the year. 

Foot Locker is also undertaking a significant store refresh programme to ensure a consistent and elevated brand experience across its global outlets.  

By the end of next year, approximately two-thirds of Foot Locker and Kids Foot Locker stores are expected to be updated, incorporating key aspects of the new concept.  

Foot Locker president and CEO Mary Dillon said: "Our new store concept cements Foot Locker's position as the leader in sneaker culture by offering an engaging, cutting-edge shopping experience for the sneaker passionate. 

"As we continue progressing against our Lace Up Plan, this inventive retail experience delivers on our promise to power up the portfolio, while providing an unparalleled, omnifocused customer experience." 

In the fourth quarter of financial year 2023, the retailer posted a net loss of $389m.