The set-up of our brand new Saks actually reminded me of the Holts in Vancouver. The layout is nice and open with smaller, separate "boutiques" flanking either sides of the store, re: a Céline, Givenchy, YSL, section. Very surprised that I didn't see a Chanel or Louboutin section. Either I missed it, they're "Coming Soon", or they're just not coming period.
I was in the area doing some showings and had some time to kill so I decided to check out the new store. From what I observed, Saks is definitely waaay better than Holt Renfrew because:
1. Their focus seems to be Customer Service. As opposed to the nose turned-up, "Do you need any help?" approach. I spent quite a lot of time in the fragrances department and 2 out of the 3 people I spoke to seemed to really know about that specific line that they were representing. I found them to be very friendly and knowledgeable.
2. Selection. Aside from the blatant lack of Chanel/Louboutin, the selection was much varied than Holts, even the Bloor location. No Michael Kors or other lower "mall brands" in sight! They even carried Proenza Schouler which I went into Holts looking for, only to discover that no one in Toronto has it. They also have NY fragrance line, La Labo which I haven't seen and many other fragrances that I haven't seen at Holts or elsewhere.
I did a quick walk by men's shoe selection and brand and size-wise, I felt sorry for them. Women's shoe selection is much, much larger!
3. Loyalty program. Sounded good. Something about double the points on certain days, 10% off your first purchase, & points = Saks gift cards.
Based on my experience, I was happy that Holts has some competition...as I think they were getting too complacent!