First Look: Michaels’ Latest Store Remodels

The Michaels Companies shared details about its two newest store redesigns, completed to provide both more shopper engagement opportunities and resources for today’s necessary fulfillment strategies.    

The remodels, located in McKinney and Plano, TX, lean into the creative environment with Trend Hubs that let customers handle products in new ways before purchasing, such as trying out markers or creating their own floral arrangement. A dedicated Maker Space encourages consumers to use supplies, watch instruction videos or take classes, while adhering to CDC safety guidelines and social distancing recommendations.

The company has also updated the checkout system with new shop-and-scan capabilities, as well as additional storage for curbside, delivery and buy-online-pickup-in-store orders.

Like many retailers, Michaels is prioritizing its fulfillment investments during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company recently announced intentions to hire more than 16,000 employees this holiday season to help boost its contactless and omnichannel capabilities.  

The new stores have also been upgraded with new floors, updated signage and lower fixtures so shoppers can more easily view and navigate the full store selection.

“At Michaels, we are here for the maker and the launch of our new concept stores is another way we are creating a more immersive and impactful experience for them,” said Ron Stoupa, senior VP of marketing, in a statement. “We are committed to testing and learning all we can around the wants and needs of our customers so we can provide the most engaging store experience.”

The McKinney store opened in March, while the Plano store held a grand opening event on Sept. 12.

The Michaels Companies, which is the No. 59 retailer in 2020, operates more than 1,270 stores in 49 states and Canada, as well as Michaels.com, Canada.michaels.com, Consumercrafts.com and Aaronbrothers.com. It also owns framing manufacturer Artistree.