Fashion retailer Reiss is to open its first overseas store in New York next year.
Managing director and founder David Reiss said he plans to have a store in the Big Apple by autumn 2004 following the success of the chain in the UK, which posted a turnover of£35 million last year.
'The next stage is to go international,' he said. 'To start with, we plan to have a standalone store in New York, but we're looking at all the major cities. I've just come back from Milan, where I was looking at sites.'
Reiss will manage its first few overseas stores, but partnerships and franchises may be considered in the future. He would not say how many international stores are planned.
Following the launch of its womenswear offer in 2000, Reiss is trying to reposition itself as both a men's and womenswear retailer. It is revamping its logo and packaging to give it more of a 'stamp of femininity', said a spokeswoman.
There are also plans to open standalone womenswear stores, as well as launch a lingerie range for spring 2004. The retailer has 25 stores and three concessions in House of Fraser. A further eight shops are in the pipeline for the UK, including a flagship in Covent Garden, plus more concessions.
Mike Godliman, director at retail consultancy Pragma UK, said the chain could have problems repositioning itself. 'Reiss is known for its menswear.
The womenswear market is already saturated. It will be difficult (for Reiss) to keep up with what has been established.'
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