Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store will have the grand opening of the first phase of its redevelopment on October 24th. This remodeling is being carried out to present a new Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store while maintaining Mitsukoshi's identity, such as its customer-first policy. To create an environment that symbolizes the new Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store, architect Kengo Kuma was hired to create a space on the first floor of the main building with the theme of a "shining white forest," and to strengthen personal shopping, including concierge services. An outline of the redevelopment was announced at a press conference held at the Mitsukoshi Theater in the main building of the Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store on September 6th.

This redevelopment was carried out with the aim of becoming "a specialty store offering hospitality that exceeds the expectations of each and every customer." To create a "new space for hospitality," the first floor of the main building welcomed Kengo Kuma, who designed it based on the concept of a "shining white forest." The corridor leading to the central hall, where the celestial maiden statue is located, features 110 white marble pillars topped with aluminum panels, creating a radiant white canopy with LED lighting installed inside. This creates an inviting space that symbolizes the "new Mitsukoshi Main Store in Nihonbashi," which will be transformed with the grand opening. Additionally, to meet the needs of each and every customer, the new Mitsukoshi hospitality brand has established four standards: people, environment, service, and products. The existing sales floors and sales staff have been reorganized from a customer perspective, with approximately 90 concierges assigned to seven categories: food, men's, women's, kimono, living, art, and jewelry & watches, as well as approximately 100 guides. A total of 320 staff members, including approximately 130 dedicated customer service representatives, will be on hand to assist customers.

In terms of the store environment, we have reviewed how the store is used, prioritizing not only product lineup and ease of access, but also hospitality and relaxation. In addition to personal shopping desks on each floor and a reception desk on the first floor, we have also created a new members-only lounge called "The Lounge" for exclusive members. We also plan to create personal rooms and meeting rooms.

In addition, we have reviewed our service menu, examined convenience and needs, and prepared 111 concierge services by category. To meet customer needs, we have launched 10 package services linking categories, such as cruises, home parties, business, bridal, and gala parties. We have also introduced a variety of new services, such as guided tour services, such as color analysis by a ladies' concierge and art gallery tours by an art concierge.

In addition, to provide the best hospitality in all aspects—people, environment, services, and products—we will promote the creation of an environment through centralized customer management using digital systems and information sharing among staff.

Makoto Asaga, Executive Officer of the Department Store Business Division of Mitsukoshi Isetan and General Manager of Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store, said in his opening remarks, "We have shifted from a merchandising and product-based approach to a customer-based, customer-centric approach. We aim to create a new Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store, showcasing hospitality techniques that will excite the world, and in addition to offering hospitality that is only available here and only to you, we want to create a store that will excite and move you."

The press conference also featured the screening of a new image video and a short story by rakugo performer Hayashiya Botan introducing the concierge service experience.