Fifa will open hundreds of branded outlets around the world in time for the World Cup in South Africa in 2010.

The first official Fifa retail outlet opened in Singapore's Changi airport last week and a standalone store is to open in the UK this year.

Gary Schoenfeld, president and co-chief executive of Global Brands Group, Fifas global licensing partner, said the retailer is poised to open more than several hundred concessions and standalone stores, selling football-themed clothing and accessories.

He added that Fifa is in active discussions with an aspirational lifestyle brand in the UK to open concessions.

He said: "The UK is an important market, with great football history and passionate fans."

Fifa stores stock five Fifa-branded clothing lines, authentic Fifa World Cup merchandise and clothing and Adidas footwear.

Stores will also open in Tokyo, Los Angeles and markets in Latin America, China and India. The retailer will launch a transactional web site on Fifa.com in autumn this year.

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