Mountain Hardwear Inc. will open a store in the exclusive Harajuku neighborhood in Tokyo, Japan, showcasing Mountain Hard Wear apparel and equipment and Montrail footwear. The new store is Mountain Hardwears third company-owned branded store worldwide, joining the companys Seattle store that opened in December 2008 and the Portland, Oregon store that opened in April 2008.
The Grand Opening celebration will take place on September 10.
“The opening of the new Tokyo store represents the popularity and global appeal of sports like mountaineering, skiing and trail running. We are seeing increasing interest and participation in these activities throughout Japan, and as these sports continue to grow, so has awareness and demand for Mountain Hard Wear and Montrail products,” said president of Mountain Hardwear and Montrail, Mike Wallenfels.
According to Wallenfels, Japans outdoor market has become increasingly health conscious and trekking, bicycle riding and trail running are becoming very popular outdoor activities. “Our vision for the Mountain Hardwear store is that it will reflect the climbing and mountain culture and passion on which our brand is built,” he added.
The new Harajuku store is located at 6-18-11 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo and measures 198 square meters or 2100 square feet. “The store is intended to reinforce our brand messages and consumer recognition in the market. We expect to see this store elevate overall brand awareness and increase consumer demand for Mountain Hard Wear and Montrail products across our existing base of retailer partners,” said Wallenfels.
Mountain Hardwears Tokyo store will celebrate its Grand Opening on September 10th 2009 and will feature appearances by four local athletes including a trail runner and mountain guide.
