US fashion retailer Anthropologie has appointed James Bidwell as managing director for Europe to advance the chain’s growth into the UK and Europe.

Bidwell has taken the newly created role joining from Visit London where he was chief executive. He was previously marketing director at Selfridges.

Anthropologie, sister brand to Urban Outfitters, is currently scouting locations to open in the UK. As revealed in Retail Week, the US retailer is looking for a site to bring Anthropologie to London’s Regent Street.

Anthropologie has 116 stores in the US and has a direct business that ships to 34 countries worldwide.

Like-for-like sales at the chain increased 7 per cent in the three months to July 31.

Bidwell will be based at Anthropologie's new London head office.

He said: “Anthropologie is an amazing concept, business and brand. By combining a truly innovative and inspirational store experience with highly creative and engaging product, I am sure that Anthropologie will be as well received in London and the rest of Europe as it is in the United States.”