AEO expands in the Middle East

PITTSBURGH — With the opening of stores in the new international markets of Morocco, Jordan and Egypt, as well as expansion plans in Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, American Eagle Outfitters is establishing quite a presence in the Middle East.

American Eagle Outfitters opened in Jordan on Nov. 30 in Taj Mall. Morocco’s store opened in Casablanca at Morocco Mall on Dec. 1. The Egypt store is located in Cairo’s City Stars Mall, and opened on Dec. 10. The company also opened its third store in Saudi Arabia, and has plans for a second store in Lebanon in early 2012. The leading lifestyle brand, with a fleet of more than 1,000 stores worldwide, currently operates in Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE through its franchise partner, M.H. Alshaya.

“American Eagle Outfitters’ ongoing international expansion is evidence of the success and positive customer response, as well as the expertise of our valued partner, M.H. Alshaya,” said Simon Nankervis, VP global business development for American Eagle Outfitters Inc. “We are continuously delighted by consumers’ excitement and passion for the American Eagle Outfitters brand as we pursue our international expansion strategy around the globe. We look forward to announcing new stores and additional countries in the coming months.”