Kiabi opens first Romanian store in Grand Arena

“The initial investment to open an outlet abroad is around EUR 500,000, depending on size,” said company representatives. A franchise contract with Kiabi usually runs for six years, after which it can be extended. Low-cost retailer Kiabi has stores in France, Spain, Italy and Russia. In December last year, the firm opened its third store in Russia, part of a wider international expansion. From 208 stores at the beginning of last year, the French company was planning to achieve a 400-unit network, cover 10 countries and reach a EUR 1.5 billion turnover worldwide by 2011, from its current EUR 800 million.Kiabi was created by the Mulliez family in the 70s, and is part of a group gathered under the Auchan umbrella. Sports retailer Decathlon, DIY chain Leroy Merlin, restaurant group Flunch and electronics and home appliances chain Boulanger are part of the same group. In Romania, the group is present through Auchan, and has recently announced plans to open Decathlon and Leroy Merlin stores. Grand Arena shopping center was developed by Euroinvest Intermed.
Corina Saceanu