H&M to open stores in Dubai and Kuwait this September

H&M has entered into a franchising agreement with M.H. Alshaya, one of the Middle East's leading retail groups.

Three stores will open in Dubai, two in the Mall of the Emirates, and one in Ibn Battuta. Furthermore there will be one store opening in the Marina Mall in Kuwait.

"We are very proud to open our first stores in this fast-growing region with high fashion awareness and spending power. We are convinced that we can offer our customers added value through fashion and quality at the best price. Considering M.H. Alshaya's strategic retail presence in the region, we are confident that this partnership will provide a much-needed impetus to our growth plans in the Middle East",

says Rolf Eriksen, CEO H&M.

"This is a much-awaited time for the fashion and retail industry in the Middle East. There is a huge market potential for H&M and M.H. Alshaya enjoys the regional knowledge and retailing expertise. The wide assortment on offer coupled with the introduction of new garments into the store everyday makes it quite a unique offering within the Middle East", says Mohamed Alshaya, CEO of M.H. Alshaya.

Founded in 1947, H&M, which has over 1,200 stores in 22 countries, is synonymous around the world with affordable, up to date and high quality fashion. The company's collections are created by more than 100 in-house designers. The autumn/winter seasonal trends are inspired by the Grand Cotouriers of the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Legendary couture cuts are updated in sweatshirt materials and wool jersey, and teamed with sports pieces and basic classics like jeans, t-shirts and knitwear. The Victorian era is important, as well as the Scandinavian peasant romantic styles.