Japanese household and consumer goods retailer Muji will establish presence in the Middle East following a franchise agreement signed with Kuwait-based retailer MH Alshaya.

Muji, derived from ‘Mujirushi Ryohin’ which means ‘no brand quality goods’, will open first store in Kuwait’s largest shopping mall The Avenues at the end of this year.

“We are delighted to be partnering with the Middle East’s leading retail franchiser to bring Muji to new consumers in the Middle East,” said Muji chairman Tadamitsu Matsui.

Muji is well known for retailing more than 7000 products designed with simplicity and packaged minimally. Its network numbers almost 500 stores spanning across Japan, other Asian countries, including Thailand, and Europe and the US.

“Muji is an iconic retail brand that has global appeal for its innovative store concept and product range. We believe its unique proposition will have strong customer appeal here in the Middle East and look forward to opening the first store at The Avenues in Kuwait later this year,” MH Alshaya executive chairman Mohammed Alshaya, said.

Muji will be the latest addition to MH Alshaya’s portfolio which also includes Mothercare, H&M, Debenhams, Starbucks, American Eagle, Boots and Pottery Barn.

GB