by Company will instead sell to U.S. customers through its e-commerce business and through the design trade and other retail stores
NEW YORK — Canadian modern furniture and home décor brand EQ3 is closing its New York City and Norwalk, Connecticut, retail locations by the end of December.
This marks the company’s exit from its brick-and-mortar stores in the U.S., where it instead will maintain a presence selling its products through its website. It also will continue to sell to the design trade and to other retail stores in the U.S.
It will also maintain its brick-and-mortar presence in Canada with 13 stores, including two outlet locations.
“These decisions are never easy,” said Anna Payne, EQ3 vice president of retail. “Our beautiful spaces in Manhattan and Norwalk were built with enthusiasm for the future, and the timing of their openings just before the onset of the pandemic brought challenges no one could have anticipated. Despite these hurdles, our team delivered an exceptional retail experience in one of the world’s most competitive markets.”
The company said even though foot traffic struggled to rebound in its stores post pandemic, the brand has done well through its digital and trade channels. In addition to a wide mix of upholstery and occasional furniture, the brand sells dining, bedroom and office furniture as well as outdoor furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories.
“The U.S. remains a key market opportunity for EQ3,” Payne added. “Our focus now shifts to meeting our American customers outside of traditional retail outlets.”
It identified the following three segments as key channels of distribution for the U.S. market:
+ E-commerce: The company said that EQ3.com “provides a seamless online shopping experience and features a live chat service connecting customers with design experts for tailored advice.”
+ Trade representatives: EQ3 said its remote trade services “deliver specialized support for designers and architects across the U.S.”
+ Wholesale channels: The company said that its EQ3 products continue to be available through select retail stores, “offering even more opportunities for customers to access the brand.”
“EQ3 extends heartfelt gratitude to its U.S. retail teams for their hard work and dedication,” the company said.
