Fresh faces on board for The Strand
Eyeing a ripe opportunity to "spot the talent of tomorrow", Sydney shopping destination The Strand will launch a boutique specifically created for recent graduates. Headed by The Fashion Design Studio's Course Co-ordinator Nicholas Huxley, the project will give six of its designers the chance to operate their own retail store.
Group marketing manager for Ipoh Management Services ? the company which manages The Strand ? Josh Klein said it had been considering the project for some time.
"We've worked with Nicholas for a number of years and developed a bit of a relationship with him and the studio. This is really a launching pad for these graduates and a way for us to spot the talent of tomorrow. There aren't any composite stores like this in Sydney at the moment so this a great opportunity for both thedesigners and for us."
Aiming to open the store by the end of 2006, the graduates involved in the project are responsible for all retail operations including setup, management, staffing and production.
One designer, Naomi Swalwell said the process has already thrown up its fair share of challenges.
"It's quite a rigorous process because we've have to organise and facilitate everything according to the strict rules and regulations of The Strand. Everyone has their own niche ? I'm working on organising the design concept, someone else is working on registering the company, another is organising the eftpos services and accounts. It's a real team bonding experience."
Designers involved in the project also include Andrea Cainero, Toby MacLean, Michael Losordo, Melissa Polynkova and Karla Spetic but, according to Klein, this is expected to fluctate once the store opens.
"The idea being that the designers will rotate and the same people won't be exhibiting there all the time. Thinking about it further down the track, once these designers find themselves a seat and become established, they'll have an opportunity to move out into their own stores at The Strand should a space become available."
The Graduate is expected to open its doors in mid to late December.