Global luxury goods group Kering opened its new U.S. operations center in Wayne recently, it announced, replacing its former U.S. facility in Secaucus.
The state-of-the-art facility represents the French company’s continued strategic investment in the region as its business grows.
“Wayne is an incredible achievement for Kering Americas,” Kering Group Managing Director Jean-François Palus said in a prepared statement. “The current pandemic presents numerous challenges, but our employees continue to persevere with creativity and resilience. We have been given the opportunity to reflect, retool and react so that, as we move forward, we can work better than ever before.”
Technology was an integral part of the architectural design, the company noted, with features including a tech bar and retail lab to validate new in-store tech solutions, among other features.
“Our new headquarters feature technological advancements that place us at the forefront to better support our ‘Houses’ and their growing retail networks,” Laurent Claquin, president of Kering Americas, said in a statement. “Wayne provides us with the ability to support our ambition to achieve state-of-the-art performance, promoting both short-term improvements and long-term transformation for the group.”
The headquarters building’s aesthetics were also emphasized in architecture firm HLW’s design, including elements of French style and a 50-foot stadium staircase inspired by the central courtyard of Kering’s Paris office.
Sustainability was also a component, with personal sit-to-stand benches and natural light, for a healthier work environment. The building was designed for LEED Gold certification, Kering said.
“Our employees’ work-life experience remains our priority,” Claquin said. “Our facility in Wayne offers best-in-class amenities focused on preserving safety, wellness and community, which has proven to be of the utmost importance during these challenging times.”
The project represents the second-largest structure in Wayne, Kering noted.
“The United States is a key country for the group, and we are excited to not only better serve our clients in this market, but to further invest in this region and to attract the best talent,” Palus said.
