Uniqlo opens second outlet at KLCC

Uniqlo opens second outlet at Suria KLCC

HUNDREDS of smiling shoppers made their way out of the Uniqlo Suria KLCC store last Friday, some with several bags in tow.

Queues were formed several hours ahead of the opening of Uniqlo’s second store in Malaysia, which is located at Lots C19-21, Concourse Level, Suria KLCC.

Many were there to purchase selected wardrobe staples like t-shirts, jeans and sandals that were being offered at introductory prices by Uniqlo.
Colourful t-shirts: Shoppers checking out the various Uniqlo t-shirts depicting a variety of pop culture, art elements and designs at Uniqlo Suria KLCC.

Asked about the brand’s popularity, Uniqlo Asia/Japan managing director and group executive vice president Naoki Otoma attributed it to the brand’s universal appeal and products that are of good quality and price.

“It is the people who choose the clothes they want to wear, not the other way around.

“They can mix and match the items according to their style and preferences,” he said.
For both genders: Uniqlo offers a full range of apparel that can be used to mix and match.

Uniqlo, which declared its clothing is “made for all”, is known for its stylish, high quality and affordable clothing incorporating Japanese technology.

“We are happy with Uniqlo KLCC’s store location. While we hope to expand on the store size, our focus right now is on the business angle,” said Otoma.

He revealed Uniqlo has rapid expansion plans, with the intention to have more stores in Malaysia.

“Uniqlo has been very well accepted in Kuala Lumpur, not unlike the stores in other cities like Hong Kong or New York.

“After our first two outlets located within the heart of KL, we are now in negotiations to open our next outlet in the Klang Valley.

“We plan to open 10 stores within three years, with at least five in KL. Once we have achieved that, we will look into locations in other states,” said Otoma.

It was reported Fast Retailing Co, which runs Uniqlo, would open its second store in Malaysia and two more outlets in Singapore by May, making it a total of five stores in the island country.

Uniqlo Japan and Uniqlo International recorded sales of ¥605.5bil (RM22.46bil) and ¥72.7bil (RM2.7bil) respectively for fiscal year 2010.

On Uniqlo’s numerous creative collaborations, Otomo said either the brand approached those with news value for their creation or ideas, or the designer suggested a collaboration with the brand.

“Most importantly, there must be global appeal. The designer must understand Uniqlo’s philosophy, hence there will be mutual discussions to reach that goal.

“As a fashion brand, most of Uniqlo’s collaborations are with fashion designers, although our UT t-shirts do feature various organisations and creative projects,” he added.

While there are no plans at the moment, Otomo said they are open to the possibility of collaborating with a Malaysian designer.

“We believe in 10 years’ time, the Malaysian economy will be equivalent to that of Japan, and the Asian market will be the huge driving force in the economy.

“We hope to see Uniqlo being a part of the Malaysian lifestyle like how Uniqlo is in Japan.” Otoma said.

A fashion showcase featuring renowned Malaysian personalities like Alex Yoong, Deborah Henry, Dennis Lau, Yasmin Hani, Josiah Ng and Ella took place at a pre-opening party on the eve of Uniqlo Suria KLCC’s store opening.

~News courtesy of The Star~