LAS VEGAS—The lure of Las Vegas is strong, with 42 million visitors last year, but gaming and entertainment are only part of the attraction. For many, the city is also considered a shopping mecca and, seeking to capitalize on the appeal, the Hudson Group and Palazzo Las Vegas have teamed up to debut The Atrium at The Venetian, a new 16,000-sq.-ft. multi-vendor luxury retail concept, on Dec. 23.
“Tourism is a key component of our expansion, and there is no better time like the present. Last year, Las Vegas tourism grew by 900,000, and that number is expected to climb in the coming year,” said Ellen Bramble, regional VP, hotel & specialty, Hudson Group, a Dufry company. “Between tourism growth and the expansion of the convention business, opening up the Atrium was a no-brainer. It’s the perfect testing ground.”
Located right on the casino floor, the retail space will showcase rare pieces, accessories, fine jewelry and watches, beauty and fragrance, electronics and spirits from premier brands ranging from Bovet, Burberry and Dior to Christopher Claret, House of Sillage and Ferragamo. The store will also offer a liquor and spirits collection from Pernod Ricard, Remy Cointreau and Moët, to name a few.
“Every hand-selected item in our assortment has a story about what makes it special. We truly have something for everyone. We have very experienced, thorough and knowledgeable staff that serve as personal guides, allowing guests to discover and explore the store,” said Bramble. “What truly sets us apart is our customer experience—that is what’s most important. We cater to the individual, whether they’re relaxed or fast-paced.”
The Atrium marks the first time Hudson Group has expanded its portfolio to include luxury hotel retail in North America. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Dufry AG, the Hudson Group has more than 950 stores in North America and 2,200 stores around the world, including more than 330 specialty retail shops in the U.S. and Canada, and 52 duty free stores in Chicago, Las Vegas, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver, among others.
“With a record 42 million visitors last year and the plethora of luxury experiences, world-class dining, entertainment and shopping that Las Vegas has to offer… the city was the perfect fit,” said Bramble. “The process of creating this magnificent store has truly been a dream come true. Our goal is to set up a one-stop luxury shopping destination—curated for locals and tourists alike—where the allure of a luxury Vegas shopping destination meets the fashionably conscious traveler.”
The Atrium’s design exudes luxe with its tufted green chairs and gold lighting reminiscent of a fine sculpture, said the executive. A glittering gold and glossy black palette frames the entrance, while lighting is designed to draw focus to featured product storefront displays.
“The spatial design of the store blends the richness of experimental architecture with a modern minimalist look and feel. Upon entrance to the store, a striking elegance invigorates shoppers,” said Bramble. “Past the threshold, guests are drawn along an undulating path showcasing the upscale brand shops and luxury product assortment. As shoppers move deeper into the store, premium accessories, cosmetic and skincare brands are presented. Brand-specific floor fixtures are arranged in front of brand walls to create the allure of small shops. The space we have defined as our liquor library with the green chairs is the unexpected gem to be discovered… it has a nostalgic Old World charm.”
From design to luxury retail offerings, The Atrium is built to deliver on the expectations and needs of its guests, said Bramble. “We are in the unique position to offer something for all six senses,” she added. “When your intuitive hunches are met, we have created an unforgettable visit.”
—Corris Little