UNIQLO to step into Germany with first store in Berlin

The store will mark the launch of UNIQLO in a German-speaking country and will be located in Berlin's popular Tauentzienstrasse shopping area, which is home to many international fashion and lifestyle brands.

UNIQLO, first established in Japan in 1984, currently has more than 1,200 stores across 14 countries worldwide.

In Europe the company operates 15 locations across three countries, having first launched in the UK in 2001, France in 2007 and Russia in 2010. The newest addition marks the first step of UNIQLO's expansion plans across Europe.

Commenting on today's announcement, Berndt Hauptkorn, Fast Retailing Group Officer and UNIQLO Europe CEO, said, "UNIQLO is a giant globally, but we are still a challenger brand in Europe. We have been focusing our presence in Paris, London and Moscow, and we are enjoying attractive growth rates despite a commercially demanding environment."

He added, "The opening of our Berlin store marks a step-change for us. The German-speaking market will offer great opportunities for UNIQLO, as well as other major markets and cities we are considering across Europe including Barcelona and Milan."

The UNIQLO store in Berlin will have a total sales floor area of approximately 2,700 square meters over three levels - ground floor, basement and first floor - and will offer the full line of men's, women's and kid's clothing. The arrival of UNIQLO is expected to create several hundred jobs in Germany's capital.

"We chose this area of Berlin because it is a popular shopping destination for both residents and tourists. As a brand, UNIQLO stands for high quality as well as versatile, affordable clothes. We know that the Berlin customer, who is conscious and knowledgeable about fashion, will truly appreciate this offering. We are looking forward to arriving from Tokyo to Berlin," added Berndt Hauptkorn.

Fast Retailing