Bestseller back in the Irish market
Published: 28 February, 2011
In a new vote of confidence in the Irish market, Danish fashion retailer Bestseller has launched a search for 30 new stores across Ireland in the next 12-18 months
Bestseller, which trades as womenswear brands Vero Moda, Vila and Only, menswear Jack & Jones and childrenswear brand Name It, has been operating in Ireland since 1991 and currently occupies 67 stores. In March 2010 its Irish subsidiary entered examinership – the Irish insolvency process – blaming upwards only rent reviews for its financial problems.
Now that a new government has been elected, with a pledge to restrospectively ban upwards-only lease clauses, the Danish parent is looking to expand again. This time is will be using a franchise model and also plans to introduce its accessories brand Pieces and Mama-Licious, which sells maternity clothing.
Savills has been retained to handle the requirement, which is for 50-sq m accessories stores, 150-sq m to 250-sq m stores in smaller market towns and shopping centres, to full 1,000-sq m flagship stores in retail centres.
Larry Brennan, director at Savills Ireland said: “Bestseller’s decision marks a significant endorsement of Ireland’s retail market and is opportunistic in its timing as there are particularly attractive deals to be had for market entrants or those businesses seeking to expand
And Mary Fitzpatrick, brand manager with Bestseller Ireland, said: “Despite the difficult trading environment facing Ireland at the moment, Bestseller brands have continued to trade well, with the retail partner model being particularly successful in using its blend of strong local knowledge combined with the experience and strength of an international brand.”
