F&F to open 55 stores across Middle East & CIS

F+F Autumn/Winter fashion show at Somerset HouseF&F will work with two of the world’s leading franchise operators to open new stores, extending the relationship with existing partner Al Hokair and announcing a new partnership with Dubai-based Al Futtaim.

The first F&F franchise store opened in Saudi Arabia in May 2012, and the new stores will use the same model, which has played a key role in the successful international expansion of the brand over the last year.

F&F will work with existing partner Al Hokair, to open new stores in Kazakhstan and Georgia., Armenia and Azerbaijan. Up to six stores are planned this year with the first store due to open in the Kazakh capital, Astana, in June 2013.

In the Middle East, F&F will work with new partner Al Futtaim. Several sites are planned to open across the region from the autumn this year.

Jason Tarry, Chief Executive F&F said:   “We’ve had a strong year and our combination of good quality and contemporary design appeals to customers across the world.  I’m excited to see F&F moving into these new markets, where there is an established and growing retail industry.

“Franchising enables us to combine the strength of the F&F brand with the local knowledge and expertise of our partners. This announcement builds on the success of the first franchise stores and demonstrates our commitment to growing the brand internationally through this model - I’m confident these new deals will accelerate our growth.”

F+F Autumn/Winter Fashion ShowThe news comes as the F&F Autumn/Winter 2013 collection was revealed at Somerset House on Thursday 16th May. The event was the first time the international collection has been launched with a fashion show in London.

F&F clothing is currently on sale in 12 countries, including stand-alone stores in the Czech Republic and Poland. There are currently 15 stand-alone stores operating under the franchise model in Saudi Arabia.

In the UK F&F sales exceeded over £1 billion and have increased by nine per cent over the last year.

Tesco PLC