Sweden-based international fashion retailer H&M has opened its first store in Egypt.

The new store is one of H&M’s (H & M Hennes & Mauritz) largest stores in the Middle East region, occupying 3,500 sqm of floor space spread across two levels of Cairo’s Stars Centre Mall.

At the launch, the first 500 customers who spent a total of 200Egyptian pounds ($37) were given an exclusive H&M bag for free. Guests were entertained with the latest club mixes courtesy of DJ Sonique.

“We are really excited to finally be able to launch H&M in Egypt. The response we have received so far has been simply phenomenal. H&M is all about quality fashion at affordable prices – and that winning formula has now been welcomed by Egyptian consumers,” H&M business director Jazz Hayer said.

“H&M caters to everyone, of any age. We continually introduce new stock on a regular basis, making every visit to H&M one of new discovery. Cairo is a unique city with very stylish people and they now have the opportunity to discover real quality, affordable fashion the H&M way.”

The retailer is planning several new launches this year. It will open a store in Bahrain in August in Jeddah and Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, in September and in Muscat, Oman, in October.

H&M’s Summer 2008 collection is available in the store. With a colourful graphic overall look, the collection comprises airy summer favourites such as wide 70s dresses, tunics, skirts and shorts for women. For men there are classic summer shirts and shorts; and in childrenswear, tunics, leggings and swimwear. All come with accessories to match. – TradeArabia News Service