GUILD, the popular concept store and gallery space for shoppers keen to support Dunedin designers re-opened Saturday 1 June in a new fixed central location at 145 Stuart St.
“Fans of GUILD will be very excited we are back in a permanent location” says Craig Scott, Chair of Dunedin Designed Inc. “Since moving to a trial pop-up model for the last six months, we’ve taken feedback from our loyal customers and while they loved the concept, there was still an overwhelming need for a fixed space. People said they missed being able to come into the store anytime, see what’s new and chat to the designer on duty. While online shopping is popular, people really love being able to come into a unique store like GUILD, where we showcase fantastic bespoke and often one-of-kind creations.”
GUILD is a key project for Dunedin Designed Inc, a unique society of local creatives working towards supporting Dunedin designer’s. GUILD provides an environment for designers to test, create and experiment, while developing their own brand and business experience.
“We’re excited to have the opportunity to be in a new central premises” says Craig. “Our team have been working solidly all week since getting the key on Tuesday to transform the space into a chic store. We’ve chosen to open so quickly to take advantage of the Otago University’s 150th celebrations over Queens Birthday. We’re very sure Dunedin alumni will be very keen to see the incredible talent and craftsmanship showcased here – and hopefully purchase an item or two to take home.”
Committee member Bailey Ross adds “GUILD has generated over $500,000 in sales for its designers since 2015 and 90% of that money goes back to the designers. Our model means retail prices can be kept reasonable for shoppers and designers are able to choose the stock they offer for sale. Often these are one-off designs. It’s all about not restricting creativity due to the usual commercial pressures that makers face, and making Dunedin design accessible to shoppers.”
The store is staffed entirely by the designers, and boasts everything from handcrafted jewellery and innovative fashion to homewares, furniture, art prints and more.
BACKGROUND
GUILD’s chic store is a retail and gallery space, dedicated to showcasing high-end Dunedin based designers, creators and makers from disciplines as varied as fashion, jewellery, home decor and graphic design.
GUILD has a unique business model. Designers rent “units” from the society. This system forms the core of the concept. These units relate to “real estate” in the space as well as operating costs and time spend staffing the space. Sales made in the shop are reimbursed to the designer, less a small commission for the society's running costs.
Permanent GUILD retailers from Dunedin:
Aunty
Beats Clothing
Born Original
Darlene Gore
Ghost
Idour
Jackie Ryder Design
Jan McLean Designs
Mixie
MU
Self Destruct Studio
Susan Videlar
Victoria Black Jewllery
Since it’s launch, GUILD has showcased over 120 resident and guest designers in the store, including many design students from Otago Polytechnic.
The store was originally conceptualised by a small group of Dunedin designers looking for a new and interesting way to reach customers in a highly competitive commercial climate.
Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm, Monday - Saturday
Social Media: @guilddunedin