Cuba St Judged NZ's Funkiest Retail District

Cuba Street Judged New Zealand's Funkiest Retail District As Kiwi Fashion Brand Revamps Stores

New Zealand's iconic women's fashion label Max has shown its loyalty to Wellington by opening the first of its new look stores in the capital.

Max Cuba Street has opened to rave reviews from the first shoppers who were quick to notice the difference in style from the layout of the Lambton Quay store, which is the most successful in the 33 store chain.

Max Managing Director David Wright who voted Cuba St as New Zealand’s funkiest shopping district, was on hand for the opening and believes the heavy wood finishes and new stainless racking systems are a perfect backdrop for the innovative shopping style of the locals.

It's the biggest refurbishment in the brand's sixteen year history and Wright says the decision to start in Wellington was a smart one.

"There are two distinct Max customers. The women who need the corporate look which is what works so well in Lambton Quay and then this edgier more eclectic attitude in the range that we can highlight in Cuba Street. Basically, depending on your mood Wellington, we have a store for you!"

Recently appointed architect Mark Gascoigne describes the look as "refined industrial" and reflective of the growth in sophistication of the Max customer.

The new look as seen in the Cuba Street prototype will roll out to other stores around the country from May.

Max prides itself on its passion for New Zealand fashion as a major sponsor of L'Oréal New Zealand Fashion Week and mentor to emerging designers.

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