High street retailer Marks and Spencer (M&S) has launched a new store in Kazakhstan, it has been announced.
Guests attending the opening were treated to a fashion show featuring the latest collections at the retailer followed by entertainment and cocktails.
British Ambassador to Kazakhstan David Moran and M&S Regional Director Mark Koprowski were on hand to cut the ribbon marking the official opening of the retailer‘s store expansion in Almaty, Tusum.
Trading over three floors with a retail space of 1,400 sq m, the store aims to provide a unique shopping experience and features all lines currently offered in the UK, including luxury range Autograph and its Limited Collection.
Last week, the retailer came under fire for the introduction of two current accounts which will charge an ongoing fee each month and start with an opening fee of £20 and £15 respectively.
Kazakhstan is viewed as an ideal location for the company due to the development of its clothing market and there are plans for further expansion in the Middle Eastern country following the initial opening.
Koprowski explained that the retailer, which earlier this month reported a like-for-like sales drop of 2.8 per cent over its first quarter, is set to take full advantage of new trade from emerging markets.
He commented: “We‘re delighted to be opening our first store in Kazakhstan this summer.
“Tsum in Almaty is the first of several new M&S stores planned for Kazakhstan and will feature our latest fashions and store design.
“We‘re looking forward to welcoming local customers to our store.”
