Alexandra Wilkis Wilson of Gilt Groupe, one of the original membership flash sale sites now ships internationally.  She was in Montreal Tuesday and in Toronto on Wednesday to promote this to media.  The luncheon, held at Nyood on Queen and Ossington, featured cocktails and appetizers, followed by a delicious three course meal.  Prior to the luncheon, Ms. Wilkinson gave the audience a brief overview of Gilt Groupe, which not only features fashion (men’s women’s and kids), but travel deals, home-related items (including furniture) as well as food (not available to international customers).

The launch of Gilt internationally is awesome as it is one of the biggest flash sale and online shopping sites.  In addition, Canadians outnumber many other non-US countries in membership.  However, one thing to note is that duty is not included in the list price.  Unlike sites such as J.Crew or Crate & Barrel/CB2, Gilt does not apply duty charges until checkout.  At least it isn’t going to come in as a surprise – many smaller online shops charge at delivery.  Shipping is free during the promotional period, but the standard is $19.95.