Saks plans store push in Japan and Middle East

Upmarket department store group Saks is to extend its global reach, with up to 15 Saks Fifth Avenue stores in the Middle East and Japan.

Saks has formed separate licensing agreements to govern the regional expansion. New outlets in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain will build on the success of a pilot venture in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Plans to enter the Japanese market in 2005 will bring between five and 10 outlets in big cities.

The first store opening under the new licensing arrangements will be in the UAE in February. The 80,000 sq ft (7,430 sq m) Dubai store will offer designer clothing, shoes and accessories.