Gap Inc. (San Francisco) has signed a franchise agreement with Brand Republic Pty Ltd., a subsidiary of Busby Holdings Australia Pty Ltd., to operate Gap brand stores in Australia. The first location is expected to open at the Chadstone Mall in Melbourne this fall.
“With Australia, we’re extending our international presence to a whole new continent,” says Stefan Laban, vp, strategic alliances for Gap Inc. “The country has a strong retail sector and an underserved market of consumers who appreciate the casual, American style that Gap represents.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Brand Republic will purchase merchandise from Gap and is required to adhere to the company’s quality standards.
The growth plans are part of Gap Inc.’s overall global business strategy, which calls for franchise agreements in 24 countries on four continents. The company already operates 130 franchise stores in Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.