If you're the type of shopper that likes to get in and out of stores quickly, this may be something that slows you down - But it also might be just what you're looking for.
Lululemon is opening meditation spaces in its stores and it's getting great support from the Hindu community.
The first 'Mindfulosophy' space opened next to the busy streets of New York City on July 21st.
It's a self-guided meditation space, located inside the new 8,000-square-foot store on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.
Hindu statesman Rajan Zed stated in Nevada on Friday that the launching of the meditation space in a shopping structure is "a step in the positive direction."
He's adamant that if more shopping complexes were concerned about the welfare of their customers, they would provide a similar dedicated meditation space.
The new 'Mindfulosophy' trademark by Lululemon Athletica Canada Inc. includes downloadable content on yoga philosophies, accessories like face masks for meditation, pre-recorded DVDs, classes on meditation, and more.
While, creating less stressful environments for shoppers may be the main part of Lululemon's mandate, this 21-year-old profitable business was not founded solely on 'good vibes,' but by a man with a business plan.
While Chip Wilson isn't running the show anymore, new CEO, Laurent Potdevin has plenty of experience in what it takes to run a successful company and how to pair it with that feel-good experience.
Prior to Lululemon, Potdevin was the president of Burton Snowboards and Toms Shoes. He joined Lululemon Athletica in January 2014 with a mission to boost sales and change the company's image by focusing more on mindfulness.
Earlier in June of 2017, Lululemon Athletica Inc. announced its financial results for the first quarter and its plan to restructure its ivivva operations.
"I'm confident in our plans to restructure ivivva and believe they are the best means to optimize this part of the business," stated Potdevin.
At the end of the first quarter on April 30th, 2017, Lululemon had a net revenue of $520.3 million, which was a 5% increase compared to the first quarter of 2016.
The restructuring of ivivva is a plan focused on e-commerce, with a plan to close 40 of its 55 ivivva branded stores by the end of the third quarter in 2017.
"From our cadence of product innovation, to our enhanced digital experience, and first-ever global brand campaign, we have never felt more deeply connected to our guest or better positioned to expand our collective. We remain laser focused on owning our position as the global brand defining an active, mindful lifestyle," stated Potdevin.
Half the ivviva stores will be turned into Lululemon stores, many with the new 'Mindfulosophy' space.
One thing Lululemon has always excelled at is providing an experience for customers.
Whether it's group classes, motivation quotes, or how the staff work on team building efforts, all those little things build a community and build a strong brand.
Lululemon's willingness to try out new ideas like the Mindfulosophy space is why the company isn't phased about restructuring a few stores.
What are your thoughts on Lululemon adding the Mindfulosophy space?
Is this a company that simply tries to balance making a profit with creating a positive environment?
Is it a good money maker to get people in stores, or is it going to help an incredibly stressed out society find balance?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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