The launch of Swedish brand H&M in Malaysia caused a frenzy, with thousands of people lined up outside its first store at Lot 10 shopping centre, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.
H&M CEO Karl-Johan Persson officiated over the ribbon cutting ceremony with Lex Keijser, country manager for H&M greater China, Singapore and Malaysia and Sin Gin, store manager of H&M Lot 10.
The lucky first customer in line was rewarded with a RM500 (US$162.91) voucher, while the second to fifth people in line won RM200 (US$65.12) and the next 300 customers received RM50 (US$16.28) vouchers.
“We have had an amazing response from our customers here in Kuala Lumpur and we look forward to bringing Malaysians fashion and quality at the best price. We are also excited to finally be expanding our business concept here within southeast Asia and hope to grow our following in this region,” said Keijser.
H&M’s store at Lot 10 spans 36,000 sqft over three storey. It carries a complete range of fashion and accessories for women, men, teenagers and children with new items in store daily.
Following the first store opening, H&M will continue its expansion in Malaysia with a second store to open at Setia City Mall in Shah Alam on October 3.
Meanwhile, H&M will be making its debut in Thailand on September 29. It will be managed by franchisee Hthai Company founded by retailer JS Gill.
“It is a natural step in our expansion in southeast Asia to establish H&M in Thailand. JS Gill has deep knowledge and experience of retail in Thailand, and our companies share similar values and culture,” said CEO Persson.
The first H&M store in Thailand will be in Bangkok at Siam Paragon Shopping Mall. It will occupy 3300 sqm over two floors.
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