Payless ShoeSource launched its first store in Malta on Saturday under a regional franchise deal brokered by Retail Management Consultants.

RMC has been working closely over the last year with its client, Al Rowad Holdings, to create a retail franchising business which harnesses its existing expertise in real estate and logistics management. The launch is the first in a development programme which will see multiple stores opening across the region over the next five years.

This development signals Al Rowad’s intention to build a world-class portfolio of fashion and lifestyle retail brand. Furthermore, it demonstrates their commitment to investing in a region which offers huge potential as a consumer market, and indicates that North Africa is very much open for business.

Ed Kalush, Head of Business Development at Al Rowad Holdings, commented:

"This is another milestone in our company's history and we're delighted to see the results of our hard work today. It was a massive effort to get this far and I have a great team to thank for all their hard work. This is a great platform for us to build on."

Joseph Leftwich, Head of Business Development at Retail Management Consultants, added:

"This is a great achievement and I’m just delighted for all concerned. The first store in Malta is looking fantastic but this is just the beginning. North Africa is often quite misunderstood, and it’s hugely gratifying to be involved in a project which highlights the region’s potential and showcases the ambition and confidence of Al Rowad specifically, and the business community here more generally."

RMC’s Connections service was developed in response to demand from brands and retailers for professionally managed expansion into international markets and access to quality franchise and joint-venture partners worldwide. In essence, we represent leading retailers and brands by identifying, assessing, and recommending potential partners in international markets, and then brokering joint-ventures and franchises.

Connections brokered a deal that will launch Kurt Geiger in Korea. Likewise, with Debenhams in Russia, Azerbaijan, and the Balkans which played an important role in helping Debenhams win 'International Growth Initiative of the Year' at the 2013 Retail Week Awards. In recent years, we have worked directly with investors and franchisees themselves to help create and improve their brand portfolios.

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