By Maxime Frechette

Montreal-based, affordably-priced contemporary/modern home furnishings/accessory retailer Structube is launching its first flagship megastore, and the idea could be rolled out in other Canadian markets if it proves to be successful. Montreal will be the launch city for flagship concept, with the first flagship confirmed to be opening in the fall of 2017.

Currently, most Structube locations measure in the 3,000 to 10,000 square foot range — considerably smaller than the new megastore concept, which will see Montreal's store span an impressive 50,000 square feet.

The new megastore will feature Structube’s entire product offering on display, and will include a large customer pick-up area, self-serve kiosks and digital signage. "The new store concept will epitomize our recent pivot to low, low prices by creating a new, large and inviting store experience for modern, contemporary furniture at the lowest possible prices,” said Tony Trew, Structube’s Marketing Director. "We hope to finally give Canadians an alternative “go to store" for stylish and affordable furniture and accessories,” he said.

The Montreal flagship will be located at 5620 Boul Métropolitain E, towards the northern end of the Island of Montreal as per the map directly above.

Structube will also open four other stores in Canada this year, in Ajax ON, Ottawa, Edmonton and Calgary. When all are open, Structube will have 57 locations across Canada. The company says that it plans to eventually operate about 85 stores in total in Canada, by opening approximately 10 per year.

Renderings in this article are via Loda Design, which has partnered with Structube to design the new Montreal flagship.

Family-owned Structube was founded in 1974. The company originally specialized in tubular retail clothing racks, hence its name 'Structube', being derived from an abbreviation of the French term "structures tubulaires". Its first home furnishings store location opened in Montreal in 1980, expanding into multiple Quebec locations before entering the Ontario market, followed by Alberta, Manitoba and Nova Scotia. Structube's contemporary style furniture ranges from rustic wood and mid-century to sleek lacquer and glass, with both pre-assembled and easy-to-assemble products. The company caters to young professionals, condominium dwellers and even small businesses.

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web: May 2, 2017