News DeskDubai, UAE – GMG, a major global retail conglomerate, announced a significant expansion of its long-standing partnership with VF Corporation, a leading branded lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories company.
Under the new distributorship and retail development agreement, GMG plans to open over 300 new mono-brand partner stores for VF Corporation’s brands like Vans, The North Face, and Timberland across the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia regions over the next five years.
Currently, GMG operates 90 VF mono-brand stores in these regions. The expansion aims to offer VF’s brand experience to a wider consumer base by introducing the brands in key Southeast Asian markets, opening new mono-brand stores, and driving e-commerce business.
In the Middle East and North Africa, the focus will be on expanding the brands’ footprint in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and entering North Africa, with Egypt being a strategic market. The North Face brand will enter North Africa for the first time through this partnership.
Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman and CEO of GMG, cited the continued achievements and shared vision with VF Corporation in providing exceptional consumer experiences and promoting active lifestyles. He highlighted the growth potential in Southeast Asia driven by rising incomes, infrastructure development, and increasing health consciousness.
Martino Scabbia Guerrini, Executive VP and President of Emerging Brands at VF Corporation, expressed excitement about the enhanced partnership, which will contribute to the brands’ regional strategies, innovative solutions, and strengthened regional presence to better serve local consumers.
The global retail market was valued at $28.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $37.7 billion by 2027, with steady growth in the Middle East due to population increase, spending power, and demand for international brands.
