Hamleys, the British toyshop, founded in 1760, has officially announced the signing of the development agreement for the Hamleys franchise in Nigeria with Smartmark Limited.
The first toyshop, which will open in Lagos soon, will include thousands of quality approved toys and all Hamleys iconic features including, opportunities for children to play, engaging store design, expertise in service and amazing toy demonstration.
Yakubu Gobir, chairman of Smartmark Limited (Hamleys franchise partner in NIgeria), says this is going to be the first real toystore in Nigeria, as Smartmark is pioneer in new store launches in Nigeria and we are really excited about Hamleys and its unique experiential retailing. Nigeria represents one of the best growth opportunities to international brands on the African continent.
“I am really looking forward to bringing the Hamleys magic to the children and families of Nigeria. Smartmark have extensive experience of international brands and retail in Nigeria and I am sure they will be successful and our stores well received. We are looking forward to supporting Smartmark’s team, as are our partners in the toy industry and those we work closely with on international relations at the Department of Industry,” Gudjon Reynisson, CEO, Hamleys, says.
Mark Garnier, international trade minister for the UK said, “From teddy bears to the latest action figures, children all over the world enjoy toys from the iconic British brand Hamleys. The UK is one of Nigeria’s largest investors and the opening of this new Lagos store will add Hamleys to the list of nearly 120 UK companies already doing business in Nigeria.
“Hamleys’ expansion into the Nigerian market is more than just child’s play – Lagos is a major financial centre of Africa, with the highest GDP on the continent and an expanding middle-class market. For other British businesses looking to make the most of global demand for British goods and services, the government is committed to helping all UK companies fulfil their exporting potential.”
For 257 years, Hamleys of London has been The Finest Toy Shop in the World bringing magical experiences and joy to children of all ages. Hamleys rich history began with William Hamley, a Cornishman from Bodmin, England. William Hamley dreamed of the best toyshop in the world when opening his toy shop at Holborn, London in 1760.
In 2017, Hamleys, as a global brand, extends significantly further than the famous London toyshop. Hamleys currently trades 107 Toy Shops across 24 countries including China, India, Russia, South Africa and United Arab Emirates.
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