Illinois-based specialty retailer of jewellery and accessories, Claire’s Stores, has expanded its reach to 39 countries with the addition of China.

The retailer opened first Claire’s Stores in China at Daning Life Hub in Shanghai. A second store will follow at Grand Gateway Mall, also in Shanghai.

The company has entered China on an owned and operated basis.

“The China market opportunity is very large within our industry and we have put together an exceptional local management team led by our China MD, Catherine Kang, to fully develop this very important, unique market,” said CEO Jim Fielding.

“We are looking forward to building a long-term, successful business in China with their support,” he added.

Claire’s Stores operates through its two store concepts – Claire’s and Icing and caters to young women, teens, tweens and girls. The retailer operates 3088 stores in North America and Europe and 381 in Japan, the Middle East, Turkey, Greece, Guatemala, Malta, Ukraine, Mexico, India, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Panama.

GB