DSW to open 40 stores in Middle East beginning in 2017

DSW Inc., a North American retailer that sells branded footwear and accessories, has announced a deal with Apparel Group to become its exclusive franchise partner in the Gulf Coast.
 
The agreement will expand the company’s footprint into Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates and Oman, with 40 stores across the territory. The first stores will open in 2017.
 
"We are thrilled to bring DSW to new markets outside North America,” Simon Nankervis, DSW's chief commercial officer, said. “DSW fills white space for fashion-minded consumers in the Middle East with our wide range of international brands at compelling value. We are excited to work with the Apparel Group, who has a track record of introducing and successfully developing international brands across the Middle East."
 
DSW plans to use these international shores to showcase a wide variety of brand name shoes at competitive prices in the Middle East. The stores, located in both malls and high street locations, will start at roughly 15,000 square feet and offer 2,000 choices per store.
 
“We look forward to launching our partnership with DSW in the Gulf region,” Nilesh Ved, founder and chairman of Apparel Group, said. “There is a strong demand for the DSW brand in this market. With DSW's compelling merchandise and brand recognition, coupled with our group's marketing expertise and knowledge of the customer, we will create an incredible experience in footwear retailing in the region."