IKEA is expanding into Costa Rica through Sarton Group, but the structure of the rollout is considerably more interesting than a conventional new-country store opening. Instead of beginning with one enormous IKEA destination store, the Costa Rican market is being developed through multiple retail and fulfilment formats, each serving a different role in the customer…
Dunkin’ is returning to Puerto Rico through an exclusive development and operating agreement with Fusion Restaurant Group, bringing the brand back to the market with restaurant openings expected to begin in 2027. The return is commercially significant. Dunkin’ is one of the world’s largest coffee and baked-goods restaurant brands, with more than 14,200 restaurants across…
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is accelerating its franchise expansion, with approximately 60 new restaurants planned for 2026 as the American fast-casual chain moves towards and potentially beyond the 600-location milestone. The expansion is being driven largely by franchise partners, including existing operators that are committing additional capital to new territories. Approximately one-third of Freddy’s…
Marks & Spencer is preparing for a new chapter in the Philippines after appointing MAP Group as its new franchise partner for the market. The agreement keeps Marks & Spencer in the Philippines following the conclusion of its previous operating arrangement and places the business in the hands of a regional retail group that already…
Starbucks is significantly increasing its ambitions in India. Through its joint venture with Tata Consumer Products, the company plans to open between 50 and 100 new stores annually, making India one of Starbucks’ most important growth markets globally. The move comes as the business surpasses 500 stores nationwide and continues expanding beyond major metropolitan centres.…
Just two years ago, many industry observers were questioning whether Superdry could regain its footing. Today, the conversation is very different. Following a major restructuring, a return to profitability, and a broader repositioning of the brand, Superdry is once again focused on expansion. The company has announced plans to strengthen its presence across Europe while…
Global expansion is often presented as a simple story. A successful brand identifies a new market, opens stores, and grows. The reality is usually far more complex. The latest move by Mango in Italy is a good example of how some of the world’s most successful retailers continue to rely on local partnerships to accelerate…
For years, many observers viewed Lululemon as a North American success story. Today, it is becoming something much bigger. Over the past few months, the Canadian athleisure giant has quietly revealed a series of expansion moves that provide a fascinating look into how modern premium brands enter new markets. First came Greece. Then Mexico. And…
Most retailers would be pleased to announce plans for 20 new stores. Sports Direct is talking about hundreds. Over the past 18 months, the brand has quietly launched one of the most ambitious international expansion programmes in global retail. First came the announcement that Frasers Group would work with MAP Active to open more than…