Bathstore has become the latest UK retailer to launch in the Middle East with a store opening in Doha, Qatar, with a franchise partner.

The two-floor 420 sqm store, on Barwa Commercial Avenue, was originally due to open last spring, but officially opened yesterday. 

Bathstore’s chief marketing officer Claire Bayliss said: “The store build took longer than expected but we are extremely proud of the result and it was worth the wait to make sure our first international franchise is perfect.” 

The store, Bathstore’s first overseas shop, has been launched as a franchise in partnership with Manazel International Enterprises. It is expected to be the first of a number of international openings by Bathstore.

The shop features a range of bathroom suites, brassware, furniture, baths and ceramic sanitaryware.

Bathstore chief executive Gary Favell, said: “This launch marks the next step in Bathstore’s ambitious plans for growth, and we’re delighted to be… opening Bathstore’s first ever international store.”

Favell helped lead a management buyout of Bathstore in 2014, backed by US billionaire Warren Stephens.

HMV and Ted Baker have been among the other UK retailers planning launches in the Middle East.