J Crew has signed up for its first UK store, taking Burberry’s former Regent Street site.

The 17,000 sq ft store on the corner of Regent Street and New Burlington Street will be the casualwear retailer’s first outside of North America.

The site is currently under development and will open in late 2013.

The store will house separate women’s and men’s sections, each with its designated entrance, alongside Crewcuts, its kidswear area.

J Crew chairman and chief executive Millard Drexler said: “London was an easy decision – it’s a place where people understand and respect the integrity of great style and great design. We share this appreciation and are excited to introduce J.Crew to more customers throughout the UK.”

J Crew acquired the lease from The Crown Estate. It’s understood that Harper Dennis Hobbs acted for J Crew.