Fnac launches “Café Fnac” at Gare du Nord, a new cultural “joy space” concept

A hybrid concept that may hit the mark. Farnac The first store opened on July 8 “Cafe Fnac” In the range North Stationas forwarded radio stationDesigned by architect Patrick Bouchain, the 150-square-meter space is located above a relay station in the heart of Concourse 1 of France’s busiest station. Now, cappuccinos, espressos and other caffeinated beverages sit alongside the nearly 10,000 cultural elements in the store. “The idea is to provide a convivial space and the cultural and technological proposition of Fnac”a spokesperson for the brand explained Figaro.

The project is supported not only by Fnac but also by Lagardère Travel Retail, a subsidiary of the Lagardère Group and owner of the well-known chain of newspapers, books and travel essentials stores Relay. Lagardère Travel Retail is already present in around 20 Fnac stores, located in train stations, airports and other transport locations. The project is also supported by a joint venture between the two companies Lagardère & Connexions.

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The French cultural brand already has restaurants in some of its sales areas. But this is the first time TRAIN STATIONa place where competition between drinking establishments and other similar places is fierce. The Olympic and Paralympic Games that will be held in the capital this summer have undoubtedly encouraged Fnac to launch this project: the Gare du Nord station, which has already completed major works, already welcomes 700,000 passengers and visitors a day, a number that will increase further during the Games.

Will many of them sit down in the Fnac café? The brand seems to be waiting for the verdict of customers before promoting the concept. Julie Reiner, president of Lagardère & Connexions, pointed out when asked by BFMTV, “There is no next opportunity to communicate” at present.