Inside one of the largest and most dynamic retail destinations in the United States, the Baker Retailing Trek at King of Prussia Mall connected students with executives from globally recognized brands including Bulgari, Netflix House, Eataly, Simon Property Group, Lafayette 148, and Breitling, some of whom traveled from their New York offices to meet with and mentor the group.
The day began at Bulgari, where students explored the world of luxury jewelry and experienced the brand firsthand by trying on pieces from its iconic collections. Executives shared insights into Bulgari’s heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling approach, highlighting how the brand balances exclusivity with modern relevance. Next, students visited Netflix House, an immersive retail and entertainment space inspired by its original shows and films.The visit showcased a fully realized, immersive space that brought its shows and films to life, demonstrating how Netflix extends storytelling beyond streaming into physical environments that deepen consumer engagement.
At Eataly, students were warmly welcomed and guided through the space while learning about the brand’s origins and evolution. The tour highlighted how Eataly integrates sourcing, education, dining, and retail to bring Italian food culture to life. Students also sampled offerings throughout the visit, culminating in a shared tasting of pizza, pasta, cured meats and cheeses, tomatoes with mozzarella, and gelato.
The group then met with Simon Property Group to explore the strategy behind managing major retail destinations like King of Prussia Mall. The session focused on tenant relationships, leasing strategy, and how malls are evolving by incorporating entertainment, dining, and experiential concepts to remain competitive.
At Lafayette 148, students learned about the American fashion house’s history and growth, with emphasis on craftsmanship, consistency, and brand integrity. The visit reinforced the importance of understanding the customer and maintaining a strong brand identity over time.
The final stop was Breitling, where students explored the luxury watchmaker’s positioning and its blend of heritage and innovation. The discussion highlighted its aviation-inspired design, precision engineering, and modern-retro aesthetic, offering insight into how the brand connects tradition with contemporary appeal.
Across every stop, a consistent theme emerged: the importance of customer experience, thoughtful hosting, and hospitality in shaping how brands connect with consumers in physical spaces. We are incredibly grateful to all of our hosts for their time, generosity, and willingness to share their expertise, making this an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.