KA International begins UK assault with an expanded 'designer' range

Spanish sofa chain KA International is preparing for a Zara-style assault on the UK home furnishings market, by doubling its product range to 2,000 lines.

The enlarged offer is part of new chief executive, and former Inditex expansion guru, Luis Blanc's strategy to conquer the UK. Blanc has recruited four designers to devise contemporary and designer ranges to complement the existing traditional offer.

KA opened its first wholly-owned store in London this week. The Fulham Road shop is one of 10 stores designed to act as brand showcases for franchisees. The retailer wants up to 100 shops in the UK as part of a five-year expansion push.