NEIMAN'S BIGGER WORLD: NEW FORMAT CALLED CUSP TO LAUNCH THIS MONTH.(Neiman Marcus Group opens a new concept)

Byline: Sharon Edelson

NEW YORK - Neiman Marcus Group is on the cusp of a bold expansion move.

In an effort to capture more business from existing young shoppers as well as those who might have eluded its full-line stores, the retailer is launching a new concept - called Cusp - that is a smaller store format with a youthful vibe, but the same polished service for which the company is known.

Four pilot Cusp stores are slated to open over the next nine months, starting with a 9,500-square-foot unit at Tyson's Corner in McLean, Va., bowing later this month, followed by an 8,000-square-foot unit in Century City in Los Angeles, opening early next month. An 11,000-square-foot store in Georgetown is scheduled for a February debut. The location of the fourth store has not been determined, said Ginger Reeder, vice …