Gap Heads to Brazil

San Francisco–based retail giant Gap Inc. will open its first stand-alone Gap stores in Brazil in fall of 2013 through an agreement with Tudo Bom Comércio Ltda.

“Brazil is a critical next step in our global expansion strategy, and we are excited to introduce our store experience to customers,” said Stefan Laban, managing director of strategic alliances, Gap Inc.

“Given that Brazil is the fifth-largest country in the world and the largest Latin American economy, we feel that this market provides us with an incredible growth opportunity.”

Previously, Gap sold its products in Brazil through duty-free channels. The first Gap stores will open in São Paulo, followed by Rio de Janeiro. The stores will carry Gap, GapKids and babyGap merchandise.

Since opening its first franchise store in 2006, Gap Inc. has expanded its international reach to 40 markets throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Australia. The company recently opened its 300th franchise store.

Last year, the company opened its first stores in Santiago, Chile, and recently opened a store in Uruguay. Gap also operates stories in Panama, Colombia and Mexico.—A.A.N.