Up-to-date coverage of the latest events in UK retail.
Debenhams debuts in Oman
Debenhams has launched its first store in Oman as the embattled business pushes further into the Middle East.
The beleaguered department store chain has opened a 34,400 sq ft franchise store in the Mall of Muscat, despite its ongoing struggles in the UK.
The store is built around its ‘Debenhams Redesigned’ concept, first showcased at Debenhams’ Watford store, increasing its focus on service and beauty.
Debenhams debut in Oman has extended its presence in the Middle East to eight countries. Its international franchise business now consists of 57 stores in 20 markets.
Hotel Chocolat to launch standalone beauty store
Hotel Chocolat is to open its first standalone beauty store, dedicated to its Rabot 1745 brand.
The 340 sq ft store will open in Westfield London, stocking Rabot 1745’s range of cocoa-rich products including oils, lip balms, body scrubs and body butters, as well as candles and reed diffusers.
Rabot 1745 global managing director Sara Logie said: “We launched as an online retailer in 2017 and since then the brand has gone from strength to strength, so it felt like the right time to expand to open our first store. Westfield has a strong retail offering and attracts a diverse range of shoppers, so is a prime location for the new Rabot 1745 shop.”