Fast Retailing bringing UNIQLO to Canada

Things didn’t work for Target in Canada, but that hasn’t deterred Japan’s Fast Retailing Co., from announcing plans to enter the market with its UNIQLO format.

The company’s first stores aren’t expected to open until the fall of 2016 when two flagship locations offering budget priced apparel measuring 24,000 and 28,000 square feet are introduced in Toronto.

Unlike Target, which recently announced plans to exit Canada after CEO Brian Cornell determined it would take too long to become profitable, Fast Retailing has more experience with international operations. Canada was Target’s first international foray whereas Canada will be Fast Retailing’s 18th international market. The company successfully entered the U.S. several years ago and now operates 40 stores in several Northeastern states and California.

“Entering the Canadian market is a milestone for the company and a significant step in our growth strategy,” said Larry Meyer, CEO of UNIQLO’s U.S. and Canadian operations. “Our first two stores in the great City of Toronto will mark the launch of the UNIQLO brand in Canada, which we aim to build upon thereafter with a presence in the lovely city of Vancouver.”

The company didn’t offer a timeframe for when it would expand to Vancouver.