Urban Outfitters Knows What Gen Z Wants: Brick and Mortar Stores

The clothing chain lures younger customers with a treasure hunting experience similar to a thrift store

Michael Beausoleil
Marker

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UO store via Inquirer

At this very moment, there is a member of Gen Z thinking of buying a ripped shirt because it’s fashionable. While I, a Millennial, don’t understand the appeal, I know I’ve been suckered into a few questionable fashion choices. So I know Urban Outfitters is the place to go when you want to buy something that’s new, clean, ripped, and stained.

While many retailers are struggling, Urban Outfitters seems to have an ambitious future. They’re actually opening new stores in the coming years, and they’re confident they can maintain a fan base. This expansion seems to defy a lot of logic. Other stores are closing, and most of the trendiest stores from the 2010’s are struggling a decade later. Meanwhile, Urban Outfitters is moving from one generation to the next with ease. They’ve found an unconventional identity, and all people seem to find it interesting.

Everything about Urban Outfitters is a paradox, but that’s part of the appeal. They sell new clothing that looks worn. Gen Z seems to love them despite their numerous controversies. Now, they’re expanding when other brands are shrinking. They’ve conquered most the major…

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