EA7 chose MEGA Teply Stan to host its first Russian store, demonstrating that MEGA malls continue to be the number one choice for international brands expanding into Russia. The country is Europe’s largest consumer market with 146 million consumers, and a fast growing middle class, ensuring it presents an exceptional growth opportunity for retailers.
EA7 has opened a 200 sq m store within MEGA Teply Stan’s fashion ‘cluster’, a 3,000 sq m multibranded department store, housing brands including Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Cain and Liu Jo. MEGA Teply Stan also includes other fashion brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss and MaxMara Weekend. EA7 offers premium modern sportswear including tracksuits, hoodies, trainers and beach apparel. The Italian retailer also brings its signature store fit-out; a light modern interior, metallic décor and mirrors.
The arrival of another esteemed international brand in the Russian market demonstrates the growth opportunities retailers believe the country offers. Consumers in Russia have a huge appetite for Western fashion, and between 60%-80% of the fashion market is imported.
Vasco Santos, Head of Leasing at Ingka Centres, commented: “We are delighted to welcome EA7 to Russia. MEGA malls have provided a growth platform into Russia for hundreds of fashion brands over the years, and a key reason for this is that they are far more than just places to shop. They are meeting places for recreation, leisure, entertainment, exercise and dining, and are visited by 246 million people annually. Their offering will only improve as our upgrade programme continues to develop.”
Last year, Ingka Centres also announced a new strategic vision, part of which will see take its retail-led mixed-use ‘meeting place’ concepts to the heart of cities for the first time. It plans to invest €3bn in centers in 30 major cities across Russia, Europe, North America, Asia and Oceania, with the first locations to be unveiled in the near future.
