The Entertainer to open 45 stores in the Middle East
Multi-channel toy retailer The Entertainer is to embark on an international expansion programme with the opening of 45 stores across the Middle East.
The retailer has signed a store franchise agreement with retail group Al Owais Enterprises, which will see the first store open in December in the Al Ghurair shopping centre in Dubai. This will be followed by further openings throughout the United Arab Emirates and in Arab states within the Gulf Co-operation Council.
Gary Grant, founder and managing director of The Entertainer, said: “This is our first franchise deal since we announced our plans for international expansion at the beginning of the Summer. Throughout the process we have been extremely encouraged by the demand shown from potential partners and the quality of the applicants.
“In Al Owais we believe we have a partner who meets all of our requirements. They are a long-established and successful business in the GCC, operating across multiple sectors. Just as importantly, they share The Entertainer’s entrepreneurial outlook and drive to constantly innovate. We are excited about working with them to build the best-loved toy shop chain in the Middle East.”
Never Miss a Retail Update!Mohammed Al Owais, executive chairman of Al Owais Enterprises, added: “We are delighted to be bringing a successful brand such as The Entertainer to the region. We believe there is a place in the market for a toy retailer who offers quality products and gives everyday value for money to its customers. Like Gary, I feel that we have found a partner who shares our core values. We look forward to developing a long and fruitful relationship over the coming years.”
The Entertainer’s growth strategy for 2013 also includes increasing its e-commerce offering and growing its UK stores. Ten new UK store openings have been announced so far this year, including the retailer’s first store in Scotland.
