Intel first onboard as Future Stores blends retail and digital innovation on London’s Oxford Street

A new retail store opens its doors on Oxford Street this week, ahead of its official launch on 30th October, with those behind it promising a new era that blends the latest technology powered by Intel, bricks and mortar as well as state of the art graphics.

Future Stores is laying claim to a £20 million investment in a personalised experience that, according to a press release, is “as fluid as a social media feed, featuring a rotating lineup of brand ‘showcases’ or ‘activations’ that will change every two to six weeks”.

Intel is the first brand to take on the space, and will host an interactive, immersive and technology fuelled activation. Consumers can get hands on with the firm’s newly launched AI PCs and play games live in-store from 30th October.

Upon entering the two floor space, that spans an entire Oxford Street block, shoppers are met with 400m² of high definition Micro LED displays, monumental billboards, and cameras. Here, consumers connect with brands through live demos, tutorials, and showcases led by influencers and creators.

This experience is also complemented by insight and data, that shows, dwell time, customer journey as well as traffic both inside and outside the store. Other measurements such as gender and sentiment will be quick to follow in the new year. 

“Today’s shoppers are driven by TikTok length attention spans, and traditional retail simply can’t keep up with Gen Z and Gen Alpha,” says Ariel Haroush, Founder and Chair at Future Stores.

“Our concept is the answer - an electrifying blend of creativity, technology, and multi-sensory design that feels like stepping into the future. It’s about giving consumers and brands what they crave: an engaging, meaningful experience.”

Engin Celikbas, Managing Director EMEA at Future Stores, adds: “Today, leveraging data to create personalised experiences isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity. This insight allows us to engage with consumers on a deeper level, enhancing conversion rates and boosting customer satisfaction.”

“Intel’s commitment to pioneering innovation is matched by our dedication to collaboration, so we are excited to work with Future Stores as the first to take up residence on Oxford Street. The store is powered by Intel Core processors and from 30th October consumers will be able to experience AI PC in person,” says Steve Shakespeare, Sales Director at Intel.

Expansion plans are in motion for Paris and New York, with a second London site under consideration.

“Consumers today demand more than just convenience - they want immersive, meaningful interactions that bring the best of digital and physical shopping together,” says Kate Hardcastle, Independent Consumer Champion.

“Future Stores delivers on this promise by creating dynamic, ever changing experiences that not only captivate but also empower the shopper. It’s this blend of technology and human connection that will define the next era of retail, allowing brands to stay agile while truly understanding and engaging their customers.”

Dee Corsi, Chief Executive at New West End Company, comments: “Future Stores’ unique blend of retail and digital innovation makes it a fantastic addition to Oxford Street, which now boasts immersive retail and cultural attractions stretching from Tottenham Court Road to Marble Arch.”

“These experiences have been highly successful in boosting footfall and creating a vibrant atmosphere along the street. More than just a shopping district, it is clear that Oxford Street is undergoing an exciting period of transformation, bolstering new openings fit for a world-class retail, hospitality and leisure destination”.

Places for London, Transport for London’s property company, who own the retail units being used as part of this offering, has worked with Future Stores on the location, which is accessible via the adjacent Tottenham Court Road station.

Samantha Bain-Mollison, Head of Retail at Places for London, says: “Future Stores is unlike anything else we’ve had on our estate, and it shows that we welcome innovative and creative businesses that redefine the boundaries of retail. We’re excited to welcome Future Stores to our estate and we look forward to seeing this innovative addition open its doors to Londoners and visitors from across the world.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Physical retail is a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which is now open for entries.

The awards, sponsored by Scala, CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.