Wednesday
Sep162009
Wednesday, September 16 Q&A with Brian Wu, Director of Incu
How did the idea of a Melbourne branch about? Was it always on the table of your grand schemes?
We've always liked the retail environment in Melbourne, so many little lanes with cafes and interesting galleries. We also had a lot of Melbourne customers walking into our store asking when we would open there, so it was an eventuality for us.
How do Incu and Melbourne belong together?
At Incu we always prides ourselves not just on educating the customer but also learning from the experiences that customers share with us. It is that dialogue that makes the store interesting and I feel that people in Melbourne are very curious about new product and stores.
How does men's style differ in Melbourne and Sydney? Is that reflected in the Incu stores?
Melbournians are definitely much more understated in the way they dress, although Sydney guys seem to be heading that way. Our Incu stores don't stock very different brands... our thoughts are that guys will appreciate our brand offering no matter where they live.
We're still waiting for the Women's store in Melbourne.
Hopefully that wait won't be too long.
What excites you, and what frustrates you about the retail industry?
Retail is exciting because every day you meet new people that walk into the store.
The frustrating thing about the retail industry is that there are too many sterile shopping environments in Australia.
Do you think this is the time to grow, or bunker down?
I think if you have the cashflow then it is the best time to grow and gain market share. The worst thing to do is to not continuously look for new product and play it safe because fashion changes so quickly.
What's your finishing touch to an outfit?
It's definitely all about the accessories... that definitely completes a look.
I splurge on...
Food - my other passion
What's in your bag?
Macbook Air, Keys, Blackberry, Monocle, iPod, USB Key, Leica Camera
What do you wear at home?
Tracksuit pants... comfort is key.
Incu Men's Melbourne Shop
Shop 6A, 274 Flinders Lane
http://www.incuclothing.com/