Kenneth Cole opens first Canadian free-standing store

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Jul 24, 2018

Kenneth Cole opened on Monday the brand's first Canadian free-standing store in Toronto. 

 
The 1,800-square-foot store opened at 315 Queen St. West and carries items from the brand’s Kenneth Cole New York label including men's and women's footwear, clothing and accessories.
 
The store’s interior is characterized by purposeful messaging, artistic works and clean lines, while elements from the brand's heritage can be found incorporated through out the in-store experience.

"For 35 years, Kenneth Cole has defined the standard for New York style and social consciousness," said Marc Schneider, Kenneth Cole Productions Inc.'s CEO, in a news statement.  
 
"As we continue to focus strategically on our retail business, we are excited to bring this modern lifestyle brand to the Canadian consumer through our own flagship location in the heart of Toronto."
 
The company signed an expanded agreement with Haggar Canada Co. in October 2016, to manufacture, market and distribute men's and women's apparel and distribute men's and women's footwear in the country. 
 
The Kenneth Cole lifestyle brand has since entered Hudson's Bay stores across Canada, as well as notable independent boutiques. 

The company believes its classic designs with a distinctive New York feel will " work well with the boldness, energy, and diversity of Toronto."
 
Kenneth Cole launched with women's shoes in December 1982. The company's products are distributed through department stores, better specialty stores, company-owned retail stores and its e-commerce website.