The big news is that Target plans to open its first store in San Francisco this October. The smaller news, in a manner of speaking, is that the company also plans to debut its first standalone C9 Active Apparel branded specialty store in the city at the same time. The store will feature Champion activewear manufactured by Hanesbrands for sale by Target.
According to a report by the San Francisco Chronicle, the 3,000 square-foot store will be located on the street level below the new City Target at the same location.
In an email to RetailWire, a Target spokesperson said the store would feature both men and women's athletic apparel and sporting gear such as yoga mats and water bottles.
Trish Adams, senior vice president of merchandising at Target, said the men's and women's activewear line priced in the $20 to $40 range is one of the chain's "most popular brands" and the new concept provides a "unique way" to introduce it to "San Francisco's active community."
Target declined to answer whether it intended to test the C9 by Champion standalone concept in other locations or if it was looking at other popular house brands or categories to break off from its traditional formats.