First MUJI store in the Middle East opens at Grand Avenue, The Avenues

19 Jan 2013

Famous 'no name' brand introduces the innovative new retail concept to Kuwait

M.H. Alshaya today announced the opening of the first MUJI store in the Middle East at Grand Avenue, The Avenues, in Kuwait, reflecting the start of an exclusive franchise partnership with Ryohin Keikaku Co, Ltd, MUJI's parent company, that will bring the renowned household and lifestyle brand to markets across the Middle East. The opening was officially celebrated by MUJI President, Masaaki Kanai, and Ambassador Toshihiro Tsujihara, the Japanese Ambassador to Kuwait.

MUJI's new Grand Avenue store operates over two floors and will provide Kuwaiti customers with an exciting range of over 3,000 simple, innovative and elegant products for the home including stationery, health and beauty, storage, kitchen and dining, as well as travel, bedding, furniture and clothing.

MUJI is derived from its Japanese name, 'Mujirushi Ryohin', which means 'no label quality goods, and the brand is characterised by its design simplicity and eco-friendly minimal packaging. Kuwait customers will find items synonymous with MUJI stores across the world including New York, London and Paris, such as the famous shrink wrap range of T-shirts, dresses and scarves, as well as the brand's own organic denim line – jeans made from organic cotton that give a soft and comfortable feel while still retaining a great fit.

Stemming from the Japanese notion of 'Kanketsu', which emphasizes simplicity and brings a sense of calm into everyday life, customers can experience a unique in-store journey at MUJI that is deliberately understated and focuses on reducing clutter and waste.

"Providing quality products that feature simple, elegant designs and are reasonably priced is at the core of our offering," said Masaaki Kanai, President of Ryohin Keikaku, Co, Ltd. "Following success across Asia, Europe and the USA, we are delighted to bring MUJI to customers in the Middle East. We look forward to introducing Kuwaitis to our distinctive 'no-brand' shopping experience."

Commenting on MUJI's launch in Kuwait, Mohammed Alshaya, the Executive Chairman of M.H. Alshaya, said: "As an original concept that blends minimalism and functionality to create a unique product range, MUJI is an excellent addition to the Middle East's retail landscape. We are delighted to bring this innovative brand to consumers in the region and believe that its international appeal will translate well with customers here."

MUJI will expand into the UAE in spring 2013 when a second store opens at The Dubai Mall.

About MUJI

MUJI (Mujirushi Ryōhin) is a Japanese retailer that sells a wide variety of household and consumer goods including clothes, home furnishings, cosmetics, travel accessories, stationery and gift items. With nearly 600 stores operating across Japan, Asia, Europe and the USA, MUJI has achieved global recognition for its concept which is achieved through a complexity of thought and design. MUJI's parent company, Ryōhin Keikaku Co. Ltd is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company employs over 5,000 staff.