Harvey Nichols is understood to be among a wave of high profile lifestyle and fashion retailers eyeing new opportunities in Beirut, Lebanon.
The city is currently the site of the world’s biggest city centre reconstruction project. Michael Dunn, general manager of Healey & Baker’s Beirut office said: ” The city’s population is 2 million and there are no decent shopping facilities there – and people want to shop.”
State company Solidere is developing 92,900 sq m (1m sq ft) gross of retailing and leisure projects in the city. Most of the top fashion names, including Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana are already there.
Thirty hotels are also in the construction pipeline as part of Lebanon’s drive to make the country into a top holiday destination. “The rebuilding of Beirut is a fantastic opportunity for European retailers to get in early,” added Dunn.
EGi News 14/11/97
