Arc’teryx opens climbing-focused concept store in Venice

Arc’teryx has opened its first concept store focused exclusively on climbing in Venice, California, marking a shift toward immersive retail experiences for the outdoor brand.

The store features a Grasshopper climbing wall and a Beta Board, designed for community engagement. Local climbing clubs ABA and Long Beach Rising partnered with Arc’teryx to shape the space, ensuring it reflects the region’s climbing culture. Long Beach Rising will maintain the climbing wall and help curate third-party products, while the retailer plans events and workshops to support local connections.

Interior design includes furniture from Waka Waka, climbing guidebooks, and a projection series titled Arc Presents, which will showcase climbing films. The store’s layout prioritizes community over transactions, with a lounge area and outdoor patio designed for socializing and skill-sharing.

A key driver behind the concept is Arc’teryx’s growth in technical apparel. Its parent company, Amer Sports, reported a 32% year-over-year revenue increase in the second quarter of 2026, reaching $674 million. The brand now operates 305 stores, up 34% from the prior year, with plans to open 30 to 35 net new locations in 2026.

The Venice store aligns with Arc’teryx’s strategy of blending retail with community engagement. Unlike traditional stores, this location treats climbing as both a product category and a cultural hub. The approach reflects a broader trend in outdoor retail, where brands increasingly prioritize experiential spaces over transactional ones.

Amer Sports also raised its third-quarter 2026 revenue growth forecast to between 20% and 22%, citing confidence in Arc’teryx, Salomon Softgoods, and Wilson Tennis 360 as key growth drivers. The company’s financial outlook remains strong despite a higher revenue base compared to 2025.

Recent leadership changes at Arc’teryx further signal its focus on brand experience. In February, the company hired former Tommy Hilfiger executive Avery Baker as its first chief brand officer to oversee global strategy and consumer engagement initiatives.