Forminster Plans High Street Launch

Forminster, the business that operates Kookaï in the UK, will launch a high street womenswear chain next autumn to help reduce its reliance on the French brand.

The company is planning to debut the fashion concept in London before adding another three or four locations, with stores of around 2,000sq ft. It will target customers aged 18-30, and will be priced between Kookaï and Karen Millen.

Forminster chief executive Michael Rahamin said the business was recruiting a team for the as yet unmade chain. He stated: "We have a strong management team that knows the UK fashion market. Where there have been gaps in the Kookaï range, such as accessories, product we have designed has been successful."

The plans for the new brand are a reaction to disappointing trading figures for the half-year to August 30 that highlight Forminster's reliance on Kookaï in France. According to Rahamin the brand needs investment in marketing and the product must pack more of a punch.