About 5 years ago, Esprit tried to stage its own little '80s revival by opening a suite of prominent stores in Manhattan in efforts to revive its fortunes in its original home country of the U.S. Unfortunately, despite the brand's continuing success in overseas, it didn't do too well at enticing American shoppers of what had once been an exciting, groundbreaking brand a quarter of a decade earlier. A few months ago, Esprit announced that it would be closing its remaining New York stores with the exception of its Rockefeller Center flagship. Though the units at Columbus Circle and on 34th street would be gone, the one store would remain in hopes of eventually igniting interest. The New York Post is reporting, however, that the Fifth Avenue store will be shuttered as well, as soon as this week. So, goodbye Esprit. You... well, you probably won't be missed that much, but it was a good try. This leaves a sizable 14,000 square feet for the taking on a prime stretch of Fifth Avenue, so keep an eye on that spot for what will hopefully be a terrific store, but will definitely be one with deep pockets.
Rock Center Esprit no more (NYPost)
Previously:
The '80s are Back: Esprit Coming to Rockefeller Center (4.27.2007)
Comments