International brands coming to Sydney

International brands coming to SydneyInternational brands are playing an increasingly important role in the Australian retail market, placing competitive pressure on domestic retailers and competing for retail space.Location is a key consideration for international retailers, as their flagship store helps to build trust and recognition of their brand. H&M Australia country manager Hans Andersson was reported as saying that scouting for locations in Australia took more than three and a half years. H&M opened its first Australian store in Melbourne’s GPO in April this year inspiring huge crowds. H&M’s first Sydney store is set to open on 16 October at the revamped Macquarie Centre in North Ryde. Other international brands possibly coming to Macquarie Centre include Victoria’s Secret and Zara, whom are currently negotiating leases. Japanese retailer UNIQLO announced it would be opening a store at Macquarie Centre later this year stretching across approximately 1,0 square metres. Other brands set to enter the Sydney retail market include French cosmetics purveyor Sephora, US clothing store Forever 21, UK brand River Island, UK clothing, home products and food store Marks & Spencer, UK toy store Hamleys and US clothing brands Banana Republic and Old Navy.