GIORDANO International, one of the world's leading international apparel retailers, has intensified its investment in the Middle East with the establishment of Giordano Middle East Free Zone Establishment at the Jebel Ali Free Zone. Giordano Middle East FZE, a 100 percent subsidiary of Giordano International , will continue to provide strategic support, logistics, and management to Giordano's franchise partners across the region and will lead Giordano's expansion outside Asia and the development of its international franchising. The announcement came as Giordano International Chairman, Dr. Peter Lau, made a visit to the UAE from the company's global headquarters in Hong Kong. Dr. Lau's visit signifies the company's confidence in the region as an engine for driving global growth. As well as touring the new facility in Jebel Ali, Dr. Lau met with the Middle East team and visited Giordano stores in the UAE. “We look at the UAE, and fully appreciate the importance of our operations in the Middle East and its contribution to the group. Giordano International's operation in the UAE has managed to expand our brand into 23 countries across the Middle East, India, Africa, Central Asia and Eastern Europe.” Lau continued: “With its strategic location, coupled with the incredible infrastructure of Jebel Ali Free Zone and business friendly policy of the country, the UAE will now be our springboard to expand Giordano into other markets outside Asia.” Ishwar Chugani, Managing Director, Giordano Middle East FZE, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Lau to the UAE and to have the opportunity to showcase our operations, our stores and our people here in the region. Next year, we will celebrate 20 years in the region and the establishment of the new Logistics and Distribution Centre in Jebel Ali will be the next chapter. We look forward to more fruitful years for Giordano Middle East FZE as a key player in the apparel retail industry.” Globally, Giordano International operates 2,800 stores in 40 countries. Giordano Middle East currently operates 240 stores and will continue to lead expansion particularly in and around the Middle East, Africa and emerging markets in Central Asia, Central and Eastern Europe. This new operation in UAE will enable Giordano to identify, nurture and develop new customers and partners in developing countries and regions across the globe, to which we consider our universal, stylish, affordable brand to be particularly suited. — SG
