To deliver best-in-class service.
Canon has officially opened a first-of-its-kind retail experience store in South Melbourne, designed for beginners and photography enthusiasts alike to learn and try Canon products, services, events and content through tailored demonstrations, consultations, lessons, safaris and guides.
Occupying 320 square metres, alongside the new SunStudios in Melbourne, the store will be managed by long-standing Canon employee, Chris Siacolas, who will be accompanied by in-store ambassadors, Gemma Ortlipp and Rob Caldwell, with over 50 years of combined experience.
The store features a welcome concierge, onsite valet, support spaces for personalised consultations, digital content screens, printing facilities, large gallery space, two versatile studios, multi-purpose theatre space and onsite café.
All Canon photography, video and print products, photoPICO wall art and photobooks, Irista cloud storage and Canon Collective events and workshops will also be offered.
Canon Australia director of consumer imaging, Jason McLean said the objective was to create the best consumer experience possible.
“We had no preconceived ideas and deliberately looked to challenge established ways of thinking that become experience barriers.
“The result is a space that is welcoming to all, provides unrestricted access to our gear and encourages an exploration of photography, videography and print.”
Why Melbourne? According to McLean: to grow the market for both Canon and its retail partners.
“The response from our partners has been relatively positive. They understand that they cannot provide the same treatment to all brands available on the shop floor.
“This is the first time an experience store has been opened by Canon on a global scale. With a full calendar for the second half of the year, we are really looking forward to consumer’s response and a strong Christmas with new products and brand initiatives on the horizon,” he said.
In-store ambassadors, Gemma Ortlipp and Rob Caldwell with store manager, Chris Siacolas