Topshop US launch delayed

Topshop-lovers in the United States have to hold their breath a little bit longer. The long-anticipated arrival of cheap chic British retailer Topshop is going to be mid March 2009, instead of the earlier scheduled Fall 2008.

The store, Topshop's first U.S. outlet, is a 45,000 square-foot space in New York City's shopping heart Soho. According to Topshop, major logistical problems, such as "permits, change of design and floor filling " in the store's 150-year-old building caused the delay.

Arcadia Group, owner of Topshop, has been completely gutting the building, including the addition of new floors, shutters and spaces for escalators. But Arcadia owner, Sir Philip Green ruled out a November opening for the US flagship store after a disappointing visit to the construction site this week. "America is a new territory for us and we have to get it exactly right", he commented.

The postponement comes at the same time that U.S. markets are collapsing amid the government's $85 billion bailout of insurance giant American International Group and the failure of investment banks Lehman Brothers and Merrill.

Topshop denies the market meltdown is the reason for Topshop's delayed opening. In a response it said the delay is not related to economic downturn or the recent banking crisis.

Topshop emphasises that ahead of the new store's launch they "will continue to continue marketing and press activity in USA including Spring press showing, possible partnership with Opening Ceremony and also marketing competitions". Arcadia put its e-commerce US-sites for Topman and Topshop live last week, designed to raise interest in the brand during New York Fashion Week.