Bealls Inc.'s Bunulu will open first store in Estero on Aug. 28

MANATEE -- Bunulu, a division of the Bradenton-based Bealls Inc. is set to open next month in Estero.

The first location of the higher-end outdoor clothing and accessories store will open Aug. 28 at Coconut Point shopping center in Estero, 23151 Fashion Drive, No. 105. Bunulu will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

The store will open a couple of days before the event, but the grand opening will feature special giveaways and discounts, yoga demonstrations and refreshments beginning at 10 a.m.

Bunulu is running a contest through Instagram from June 5 to Aug. 26 for a $500 gift card to Bunulu. Follow @Bunulu on Instagram and post a picture taken in front of the Estero store and tagged #Bunulu and you will be entered in a random drawing set for Sept. 1.

The first Bunulu will encompass 4,000 square feet between Victoria's Secret and J. Crew. Everything -- from brands carried in the store to the checkout process -- is meant to cater to the active lifestyle. Instead of queuing customers up to a cash register, associates with iPads will be available throughout the store to help customers complete purchases.

The stores will have a more open layout and include more folding tables instead of clothing racks.

Estero was an ideal location for the first Bunulu because of an abundance of outdoor activities nearby and its proximity to the Bealls Inc. headquarters in Bradenton. "They were just really excited about the opportunity in Coconut Point," said Bunulu spokeswoman Sara Shake. "And it was the first lease that came to fruition."

"Bunulu was born out of a love for the outdoors," Bunulu and Bealls Department Store President Lorna Nagler said in a statement. "The blending of style with function helped guide our buying choices, and we know that the shopper will feel the connection to the coastal lifestyle while shopping at Bunulu. You'll be able find brands that offer the customer an experience of surprise, delight and authenticity."

Well-known brands such as Columbia Sportswear, The North Face and Ray Ban can be found at Bunulu next to newer retailers such as GoPro, Costa Del Mar and Duvin. "It's a cool mix of time-tested and newcomers to the market," Shake said.

The second Bunulu will host its grand opening at Jacksonville's St. Johns Town Center on Oct. 23.

Bealls Inc. plans to open four other Florida Bunulu stores before the end of 2015. No Bradenton or Sarasota locations are planned, but Shake said at least one more west coast location is planned.

Janelle O'Dea, Herald business reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7095. Follow her on Twitter @jayohday.

This story was originally published July 29, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Bealls Inc.'s Bunulu will open first store in Estero on Aug. 28."