Saks OFF 5th finally opens up in Sunset

Saks OFF 5TH has finally arrived in Sunset!

Liberty View Industrial Plaza celebrated the grand opening of the long awaited Saks OFF 5TH, Saks Fifth Avenue’s sister discount store, on Thursday, October 13.

A sizable line formed outside the borough’s first Saks OFF 5TH store, 850 Third Avenue, minutes before the doors opened at 10 a.m. The celebratory atmosphere included a deejay, a ribbon cutting ceremony and giveaways.

“We’re excited to bring the ‘thrill-of-the-hunt’ experience Saks OFF 5TH is known for to fashion-conscious Brooklyn shoppers,” said Jonathan Greller, president of Saks OFF 5TH and Gilt in a statement. “We are continuing to grow our presence in high-density areas, and provide customers with a great mix of emerging designer labels and well-known luxury brands.”

The Sunset location is approximately 31,000 square foot and promises shoppers a compelling lineup of more than 800 designer brands at affordable designer prices for men, women and children, with some up to 70% off.

The space evokes a relaxed shopping experience, with open aisles, an industrial feel and neon signage.

Attendees, who received free chocolate bars, some of which contained a golden ticket that translated into $100 gift cards, were happy with the store’s new digs.

“We’re very much excited about it,” said Sunset resident Carmen M., who brought her grandchild and daughter-in-law. “We were shouting in excitement. I think it’s great they have a store like this here. It’s beautiful, especially the entrance. It’s very pretty and welcoming.”

Even Bay Ridge residents were excited about Saks OFF 5th entering the area. “I love Saks (OFF 5th) and I like the brands they offer,” said Tracy K. “It’s great to have a place around here where you can have real nice clothes at a good price. It’s a fun setting and a nice thing to have in the neighborhood.”

Although others were a bit more skeptical of Sunset Park’s recent transformation, they are willing to give the transformation a chance. “It’s definitely a different direction for the neighborhood,” noted former Sunset resident Susan Nathan, who recently moved to Windsor Terrace. “I don’t know if that’s good or bad. The neighborhood’s dramatically increased in price. It’s a mixed bag. There wasn’t really anything in this section of Sunset Park. There weren’t really amenities, but now with a good store like this and Bed, Bath, and Beyond coming, this could be a good change.”

Nathan also suggested the new retail stores have made the area safer. “I worked a few blocks away 20 years ago and it was completely different,” she said. “It wasn’t even safe to walk here after hours so it’s nice that it’s gotten safer. I wish they did this years ago. “

Salmar Properties purchased the massive space in 2011 from the New York Economic Development Corporation.