The idea of the flagship store might be a thing of the past.

The idea of the flagship store might be a thing of the past. JC Penney, Ralph Lauren, Toys R Us, and Aeropostale are just a few of the brands abandoning their flagship locations, some even taking financial hits to break leases. Ecommerce and social media have made the idea of the flagship as a brand-boosting status symbol/marketing tool unnecessary. Instead, smaller more “financially prudent” locations are being favored (as we predicted), and some brands are turning flagships into “venues for memorable experiences.” (Experiencification anyone?) (Ad Age)