Hamleys chief plans worldwide toy departments

Hamleys' new chief executive John Watkinson plans to launch branded Hamleys areas in shops overseas as early as next year.

He said the plan would deliver 1,000 sq ft (95 sq m) sections in department stores. Talks are in progress with several retailers, and possibilities for the launch include Japan, Germany and the US. The aim is to create a Hamleys brand that is 'recognised as the authority on toys', Watkinson said.

Hamleys is also investigating a similar UK deal, and Watkinson said partners could include a department store or book retailer. 'We would think about where the Hamleys customer would shop,' he said.