The day before the grand opening of the Carrousel du Louvre (Paris) retail store was busy for Apple, but quiet for the waiting line, which by 7 p.m. number just five persons. Arthur arrived as the first person in line at 1:52 p.m., followed by the second at 2:48 p.m. So far we have representatives from France, Germany and the United States. Today there were tours and visits, first in the afternoon from what appeared to be local business people, and then at 5 p.m. from friends and family of the store staff. Each session was passionate and excited, especially as the visitors entered—the employees crowded the stairs and mezzanine railing to clap and shout. Both times the displays of enthusiasm drew scores of people to the front window, and generated questions to staff at the front door—When is the store opening? The mall closes at 11 p.m., and the waiting line anticipates moving up to ground level, within the courtyard of the Louvre buildings, in a garden area that has been set up to accommodate a large line. According to Apple officials, the line will be allowed back into the mall some time after it opens at 8:30 a.m., and will will then regain their original position along the wall next to the front door. View photos of the day. [I'll be out of contact between 11 p.m. and about 9 a.m. because of the relocation, and won't be posting reports.]
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Great pictures Gary. I really like the mezzanine approach. The high ceilings give a real sense of openess that you don’t get in a store like the Grove. I always feel a tad bit claustrophobic in that store. I much prefer 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica or the Beverly Center. Their ceilings are no higher but the stores are quite a bit wider (45 vs 30 feet). Another example of the mezzanine approach is a store in Europe. It’s one of those locations where Apple actually knuckled under and built a store that blends in with its surroundings. The store looks like it was set inside a castle-like building. Heavy stone walls make up the exterior and two or more walls of the interior.