Kate New York opens in Dubai Mall

Kate spade new york today opened the doors to its first store in the UAE, in Dubai Mall, and its second store in the region, following the opening of a branch in 360 Mall in Kuwait last month. The arrival of the global lifestyle brand in the region is the result of a new distribution partnership with Jashanmal Group, which will involve exclusive distribution for the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain. All stores will include women’s ready to wear, handbags, small leather goods, fashion accessories and jewellery. Growth looks set to continue, with plans to expand into other territories in the region in 2012 and 13, with multiple retail stores and several shop-in-shops. At the creative helm of kate spade new york, and a key driving force behind the brand’s success and inevitable expansion, is President and Chief Creative Officer, Deborah Lloyd.  Joining the brand in 2007, Lloyd oversees all creative aspects of kate spade new york, and is responsible for building its unique philosophy for providing great personal style, combined with long lasting utility. Craig Leavitt, CEO of kate spade new York, said: “We are confident that the Middle East market will be a key growth area for us, and intend to have a meaningful presence in the region, opening in three new markets as a starting point. We are excited about our distribution partnership with the Jashanmal Group as they have a proven track record of strong brand management and aggressive growth plans. We feel certain that our product - with its spirited, chic and colorful DNA will resonate with the Middle Eastern consumer, and will excite her as an accessible luxury lifestyle brand. This launch coincides closely with our expansion into Europe, having opened two stores in London last fall, as we recognize the importance of traffic moving between these two markets.”