It doesn’t take a retail expert to figure out that Norway sells in Minnesota. That’s why Mall of America is particularly excited to bring Moods of Norway to its lineup this fall.
“The company itself is trendy but has a Nordic flair,” said mall spokeswoman Bridget Jewell. “Scandinavian roots is a big thing in Minnesota.”
Founded by designers Simen Staalnacke and Peder Børresen, Moods of Norway specializes in international dance floor fashion. The retailer, based in Stryn, Norway, currently operates stores in Los Angeles and New York.
The Mall of America will be the only mall in the state to host Moods of Norway. Over the past several years, the mall has focused on landing retailers exclusive to Minnesota as a way to draw interest from not only local shoppers but also tourists throughout the Upper Midwest.
“We’re always looking to provide something unique and exclusive,” Jewell said. “It’s important for us to have an exclusive tenant because it drives people from the surrounding areas. We can get such a drop from the five-state area for something other than Minnesota’s no sales tax on clothing.”
In addition to Moods of Norway, the mall said it signed up eight new tenants, including Silver Jeans Co. and Victorinox Swiss Army, makers of the famous Swiss Army Knife. Several retailers already sell Silver Jeans but the Mall of America will feature the company’s only store in Minnesota.