Al Hokkair arms Suiteblanco for international deployment

By

Olivier Guyot

Published
Oct 24, 2014

With the sculptural shape of Russian model Irina Shayk, Suiteblanco is looking to seduce consumers beyond Spain's borders. The Al Hokkair group, which has owned the label since February after acquiring most of its activities for more than 40 million euros, is offering a winter campaign with the girlfriend of football star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Shayk has already been the muse of a campaign for Blanco in 2012. The publicity campaign will start on 29 October and is not only aimed at Spain but also has ambitions for the label's international development.

According to Europa Press, Al Hokkair is aiming to develop Suite Blanco in Saudi Arabia. The group, which has 37 stores in the country, is aiming at 50 and intends on developing the Suiteblanco Accessories chain, which already has three stores offering lingerie, beachwear and jewellery.

In the Middle East, the brand should be making its mark in Egypt, Jordan and Iraq. It is also aiming for markets like Kazakhstan and the Philippines and an entry into the American market.

Across the pond, Al Hokkair can already count on its subsidiary's network, Retail Group America, which includes names like New Yorker, Accessorize and Promod in America among its portfolio.

In the first quarter of 2013, the company announced its project to install Suiteblanco locations in the United States, notably in the Destiny USA shopping complex in Syracuse, New York. It may open seven stores in the next few months.

In total, the chain has some 245 boutiques in 23 countries. Its leading market remains Spain. But it is also present in Saudi Arabia, Portugal, France and England.