Ancestors

Toot

Written by Paul Wermer, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 on 2025-01-23 at 21:33

I recall the days when major cities had significant local retailers with their own character and attractions - San Francisco had I Magnins, Gumps, Emporium-Capwell serving different market segments, etc - and many smaller retailers with retail selections curated to create a local experience (Arthur Beren's shoes, for example). There was a reason to visit and shop.

And how I see "evidence of positive momentum the recent openings of a string of luxury retail stores near Union Square, including Rolex and Patek Philippe boutiques next to a new Breitling watch shop and relocated MaxMara and Burberry shops."

How does that differentiate SF from any major city trying to attract visitors? Why is it a feather in the retail cap to attract boutiques I find in good quality international airline terminals? Is that the best we can do - branded mass market luxury? An upscale version of discount outlet malls? How does this create an "only in SF" experience?

https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/business/more-sf-retail-spots-were-filled-than-vacated-in-late-2024/article_bf209bb8-d929-11ef-82f5-8fc5919a842a.html

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Descendants

Written by Paul Wermer, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 on 2025-01-23 at 21:43

I know there are many good SF retailers in the neighborhood commercial districts - both local manufacturer's stores, and retailers with well thought out collections, offering coherent design ideas rather than a single brand. I can't help but wonder if figuring out how to get more local products/locally curated collections into downtown might not pay dividends in getting people - especially vistor's - to come downtown.

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