Outlet malls seldom lease space to brands known only by a few shoppers. But Albertville Premium Outlets is taking a chance on one of Europe's top sportswear brands that has virtually no other presence in the United States.
The mall has had trouble keeping retailers in its less-trafficked Promenade annex built across the street from the main center. Clarks and Lululemon recently moved from the annex to the main center. Local retailers such as KLN Family Brands and Wicked Cheap have closed.
But optimism is high for a new retailer called the Peak, which is offering Luhta, a Finnish sportswear maker.
"We're the only place in the nation that sells the full collection of Luhta premium outerwear," said Tom Crassweller, co-owner of the Peak. "It is one of the top selling outerwear brands in Europe and the best seller in Scandinavian countries."
Similar to North Face and Under Armour, the brand includes activewear in the $30 to $80 range, sportier casual wear from subsidiary IcePeak running from $35 to $180 and outerwear that goes from $100 to $280.
"This is a test store to be followed by additional U.S. stores in late 2016 or 2017," Crassweller said.
Luhta and its edgier, sportier brand IcePeak are known for warmth and breathability but also good fits with tucked-in waists and fuller hip sizing for women.
Taller men and women appreciate the longer sleeves, Crassweller said.
