Tory Burch, a luxury American lifestyle brand, said it has inked a partnership deal with top regional distributor and retailer Chalhoub Group to open its outlets in the Gulf region.

As per the agreement, Chalhoub Group will hold the exclusive rights to distribute and retail Tory Burch products in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.

The US fashion brand is planning to open its first boutique in the region by the end of this year at The Dubai Mall.

This will be followed by the openeing of several other Tory Burch boutiques across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait in 2012.

“Expanding in the Middle East is a significant step for our brand,” said CEO and designer Tory Burch.

“We are excited to partner with Chalhoub Group and look forward to building a long-term business together,” he added.

Patrick Chalhoub, co-CEO of Chalhoub Group said, 'With fashion retail in exponential growth, we are delighted to join hands with Tory Burch for its development in the Middle East.'

'This partnership is a major addition to our portfolio and we are confident it will offer the stylish, distinctive designer looks fashionistas are looking for when shopping in the region,' he stated.

The full Tory Burch collection will be available at these outlets, including ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, small leather goods, eyewear and accessories, he added.

Since its launch in 2004 as a lifestyle concept with multiple categories, Tory Burch has received recognition from the fashion industry, including the CFDA Award for Accessories Designer of the Year in 2008, said Burch.

In November 2007, the company was honored by the Accessories Council of Excellence with the award for Accessory Brand Launch of the Year.

In 2005, the Fashion Group International awarded Tory Burch the Rising Star Award for best new retail concept, he added.-TradeArabia News Service