Polarn O. Pyret Opening Edina Location Later this Month

European children's clothing retailer Polarn O. Pyret—Swedish for "buddy and the little guy"—is bringing its 35-year tradition of quality, durable apparel to Edina this month.

The retailer is set to open for business inside of the later this month, according to mall officials. Polarn O. Pyret's 1,744-square foot location in the Galleria will be located across from and Pumpz & Co. in the center's east end.

It will be the fourth U.S. location for the company—two are in Manhattan, N.Y., with one in Greenwich, CT—but the first to come to the Midwest.

Jennifer Athanason, Polarn O. Pyret USA president, said launching their online store prior to brick-and-mortar locations allowed the company to pinpoint popular markets across the U.S.

"Our customers are not shy about letting us know where we should open stores, and we are certainly listening," Athanason said. "Minnesota has been one of our best markets since we launched our online store in 2009. We’re thrilled to be able to open our first Midwest store at Galleria."

The store—pronounced "POH-lahrn oh PEE-rhet” and nicknamed PO.P—focuses primarily on clothing for active children. Utilizing a unisex design, clothes are able to be handed down between siblings regardless of the children's genders.

Approximately 30 percent of PO.P's collection is eco-friendly, meaning they're made from either recycled material or organic cotton. 

Galleria Vice-President and General Manager Jill Noack said Polarn O. Pyret adds "another great option for the customer."

"With all of the young families shopping at Galleria, we are continually being asked for more children’s offerings," Noack said.

Athanason said PO.P fills a void in the U.S., catering to parents seeking a brand they can trust to "fulfill as many clothing and gear needs as possible for their growing kids."

"We like to think of PO.P in the U.S. as a 'one-stop shop' for busy parents," Athanason said. "From rain boots to no-fuss party clothes, we basically have everything that babies and kids need year round. When you add to the equation Swedish design and the best outerwear out there for kids, it really seals the deal."

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