Cath Kidston eyes up Latin American expansion
Vintage-style clothing chain Cath Kidston has set its sights on expanding in South America after growing global demand for its distinctive floral frocks encouraged it to set foot on the continent for the first time.
In recent years the chain has expanded from its UK base, where it now boasts 70 outlets, to launch more than 130 stores globally in countries ranging from Spain to China and India.
To spearhead its latest expansion the retailer has appointed Under Armour’s Michael Engelhaupt, with already strong online orders from across Latin America giving it cause for optimism.
Chief executive Kenny Wilson said: “Over time we expect to expand across the region but initially we will be focused on Mexico and Chile because of the inward interest in Cath Kidston coming from those two markets.
"Michael will be talking to potential franchise partners and, as we have done in other markets, we are looking to do a combination of standalone stores and concessions.
"We did research as we do before deciding to go into any new market and this said that there was a market in Latin America and interest for fun, cheerful, British products like Cath Kidston. We are very confident in the consumer appeal in Latin America for our products.”
Cath Kidston saw its international retail sales leap 20.2 per cent to reach £55.3m in 2015, with overall sales rising 2.4 per cent to hit £55.3m.