Franchise deal secures standalone sites
Menswear retailer Charles Tyrwhitt has agreed a franchise deal to open its first standalone stores in the Middle East.

It has joined forces with Jashanmal National Company, which already runs franchises in the region for Burberry and Calvin Klein. The first franchise store will open in October and at least eight more are planned for across the Middle East.

Charles Tyrwhitt already has a concession within Harvey Nichols in Dubai, but has no standalone stores in the Middle East.

The company plans to develop its range beyond the traditional shirts, ties and cufflinks to include sportswear and an expanded women's range.

The company achieved an 18 per cent rise in sales to£40 million last year and it expects to exceed£50 million in 2006.

Charles Tyrwhitt managing director Ashley Potter said: 'Our plans are to replicate this partnership in other strategic territories.'