When Chain Store Age magazine came to Chute Gerdeman Retail and asked us to share our concept for a Store of the Future, we headed for London and the 2012 Olympics. The vision: a cool new world of London-inspired style for teens—Union Jac.

In the windows, amazing stuff. On a series of slim video panels images of guys and girls flicker through a series of different looks—like next of skin avatars! A dramatic video wall slices through the entry, proclaiming entry into a cool new world of London-inspired style. Inside, you can try on a new you in 3D mirrors, (no fumbling with zips, just drag and flaunt a new look!). Best friends cluster around a huge floor-to ceiling touchscreen. When you speak, you’re communicating in real time with kids like you in London— swapping files, photos, laughter, downloads and fashion tips. It’s fully live Facebook. In the back it only gets better. Turns out, transformation awaits in the Salon. In the chair, you get style advice from a famed London stylist, via two-way video mirror. Virtual hair exploration includes color, cut and trend tips from Piccadilly Circus. The team of styling wizards transforms the style-lacking into a modern-day god or goddess. But wait, the ink’s not dry on this story. Before you can say, “the mutt’s nuts!” you’re getting a light-activated tattoo (location: undisclosed). Transformation: absolutely brilliant!

Learn more about Chute Gerdeman's Store of the Future: Union Jac at www.unionjac.com