Akira

Akira is a Chicago fashion retailer that began as a single women's store in Wicker Park. It sells trend-led womenswear, menswear and shoes through its Chicagoland stores and the online shop ShopAkira.com.

What is Akira?

Akira is a fashion retail brand from Chicago. It opened as a single women's store in the Wicker Park neighbourhood and marked its tenth anniversary in August 2012, by which time it had grown into a local chain.

History

From its Wicker Park origin the business expanded across the city and its suburbs. By 2012 Akira operated 17 stores in the Chicagoland area, including separate men's, women's and shoe stores, with three locations in Bucktown alone.

Products and positioning

Akira sells fashion for women and men together with footwear, positioned around current trends and accessible prices. Its stores are organised by category, with dedicated shoe stores alongside apparel locations.

Distribution

Besides its physical stores, Akira sells through its own online shop, ShopAkira.com, which allowed the company to reach customers outside Chicago, including internationally. The online store started with women's merchandise, with men's planned to follow.

Why it matters

Akira is an example of a regional independent fashion chain that grew from one neighbourhood boutique into a multi-format retailer, and then used e-commerce to extend its reach beyond its home market.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Akira from?

Akira is from Chicago, where it opened its first women's store in Wicker Park.

What does Akira sell?

Akira sells trend-led womenswear, menswear and shoes in its stores and online.

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