Pritesh Patel, the lab’s chief operating officer, will take over as president and CEO of GIA.
The RealReal Opens First Brick-and-Mortar Store
The online luxury consignment shop is embracing the omnichannel experience with its permanent New York City location.

New York--Luxury consignment e-commerce site The RealReal has opened its first brick-and-mortar retail store.
Located in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood at 80 Wooster Street, the 6,000-square-foot space will allow customers to interact directly with luxury goods experts, such as gemologists, horologists and authentication specialists, the company said in a press release.
“Expert workshops” will be held at the store twice daily, covering topics such as authentication, trends and styling.
The multi-level store also is focused on creating an experience.
The space features a 35-foot wall with 13 hidden closets full of women’s ready-to-wear, shoes and handbags. There is also a floor-to-ceiling wall of Hermes Birkin bags.
The lower level is catered to men with clothing, a wall of rare sneakers, a library and a lounge area.
The store’s outdoor space will be open in warm months for special events and to offer seating for the on-site café. There is also a Fox Fodder Farms flower shop within the store.
The RealReal said that product will be refreshed daily.
The company already has luxury consignment offices scattered across the country, and there is one on site at the new SoHo store, where customers can book private appointments or drop off jewelry, watches and handbags to be appraised for free. Services like repairs, clothing alterations and authentication are also available.
CEO and founder Julie Wainwright commented, “After much success from The RealReal’s pop-up shop in New York last holiday season, we’re ready to expand our e-commerce business to a permanent brick-and-mortar space as another touchpoint for our customers and consignors.
“We not only created a concept store that represents The RealReal with the best product, but we created a next-level customer experience for buyers and consignors that leverages the speed of e-commerce with the brand experience of brick-and-mortar.”
The RealReal’s first permanent retail store is now open. More information can be found on the company’s website.
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