Summit Welcomes Lululemon To Town

 On April 1, the newest addition to downtown Summit opened their doors.  About a dozen people anxiously awaited the opening of Lululemon's showroom selling yoga clothing and apparel at 382 Springfield Avenue, Suite 517.

Amy Feeney, showroom manager, was taken by surprise by the large gathering.  "We were doing last minute housekeeping minutes before we opened our doors at 11 a.m.."  Feeney, who has worked with the company for the past two years, could not contain her excitement.  "We are so happy to be in the community."

The feeling was mutual.  "This is such a nice addition to Summit," said shopper Laura, as she pursued through the selection, dressed head to toe in lululemon.

Fenney revealed that a main ingredient in the company's philosophy is community involvement." The brand's mission is to give back to the community.  That is why I love working for them." The Showroom has been showing their support of Summit by utilizing local vendors.  "Our flowers are from Summit Hills Florists. We are using Carlos from Summit Tailors to hem our client's pants." The hemming of any lululemon pants is at no additional cost.  While lululemon attire is sold at other Summit locations, such as nearby The Bar Method, the Showroom will only sell products not available at other Summit locations.

Since the establishment is currently a showroom, a smaller version of a retail store with a lesser amount of selection, they will only be open part of the week so that they can be out in the community meeting the residents and participating in local yoga and fitness classes." We plan on turning into a full retail store in the future," Fenney said.

They are also planning to partner with Can Do Fitness in the upcoming months.

"We intend on hosting a free weekly fitness event, such as a yoga class or a boot camp, at local parks in the area," revealed Fenney. Fenney anticipates the events occurring on Saturdays, weather pending. The showroom will also open their space for local vendors should they need to host a sample sale or any other event. 

"We can host trunk shows or support local fitness events.  We are open to supporting whatever the community wants," Fenney said. 

Lululemon, based in Vancouver, Canada, does not do any advertising aside from the occasional print ad in Yoga Journal and Runner's World. 

"Our company believes in grass root efforts," Fenney said. "Our business mainly comes from word of mouth."

The Showroom is hosting an open house on today from 3 to 5 p.m.  They will be offering refreshments and "lululemonade."  Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Marguerite White, assistant showroom manager and Summit resident Rita Murti, Educator. 

For more information or to sign up to receive email blasts, check out their Web site.

Showroom hours are Thursday- Saturday from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.  Purchases are made by credit card only.