Neck & Neck to open franchise network in UK

Spanish childrenswear retailer Neck & Neck plans to open 10 franchised shops in the UK as part of its international expansion.

Neck & Neck's first British store opened at Bluewater at the end of October.

The retailer is now looking at sites on the high street and in other malls, and the next shop is slated to open in March. 'The UK market is very important for us,' said international manager Borja Zamacola.

Neck & Neck has 140 shops in 12 countries, including Spain, Italy, Ecuador and Mexico, and is also looking at Greece and Morocco for further growth.

Group turnover in the year to February 20 was EUR21 million (£14.8 million).