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Skims Doubles Down on the UK with second store opening. Just weeks after opening its first standalone UK store on London's iconic Regent Street, Kim Kardashian's Skims has announced plans for a second location at Westfield London, set to open early next year. For anyone working in retail or hospitality, this is another sign that global brands still see huge value in physical stores, even in an increasingly digital world. While online shopping continues to grow, customers are actively seeking experiences that allow them to interact with products, discover new brands, and connect with the lifestyle those brands represent. Skims has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in fashion and lifestyle, known for its inclusive approach to shapewear, underwear and loungewear. The decision to invest further in the UK market highlights the confidence the brand has in British shoppers and the continued appeal of premium retail destinations. The new Westfield London store will give customers another opportunity to experience the brand first-hand, something that online channels simply cannot fully replicate. The expansion is also a reminder of how fast-moving the retail landscape has become. Brands that create strong communities, build social media buzz, and deliver a seamless customer experience are finding opportunities for growth across the globe. Alongside its UK expansion, Skims has recently launched a flagship store in Dubai Mall and announced plans to enter India, with stores planned for Delhi and Mumbai. For retail and hospitality professionals, there are some valuable takeaways here. Customers increasingly expect more than just products, they want memorable experiences, personalised service, and brands that align with their values. Businesses that can combine great products with strong customer engagement are the ones continuing to win market share and attract loyal customers.

NikeSKIMS looks to be opening its first mainland China store this autumn. NikeSKIMS China store: Key takeaways * NikeSKIMS is preparing to open its first standalone mainland China store at Shanghai's HKRI Taikoo Hui this autumn * Its sculpting, fashion-led performance wear gives the brand a clear point of difference, but Lululemon retains a decade of community-building and retail experience in China * The Shanghai opening will test whether NikeSKIMS' strong initial interest can translate into sustained demand among Chinese consumers 'Coming Fall 2026' is splashed across hoardings under the name NikeSKIMS. That's the women's activewear brand that Nike has been building with Kim K's underwear/shapewear brand SKIMS. Its US response has been positive, and now they're eyeing up China. The brand's products span gym, studio and lifestyle wear. Footwear and accessories come into it too. As with other brands in the activewear industry, the proposition is workout clothes that function as everyday leisure clothing too. NikeSKIMS, however, stands apart with body-contour design and Nike's sport authority. Lululemon will be the brand's most direct competitor. In the US market, the two brands occupy overlapping premium price bands for basic items like sports bras and leggings. It's unlikely that pricing will change much for the Chinese market. NikeSKIMS will instead be competing on its ability to give women a Kardashian silhouette. The new store is in HKRI Taikoo Hui mall (兴业太古汇) on West Nanjing Road, Shanghai. Its neighbours will be some of global fashion's highest flyers. And before we even see open doors here, a partnership with Lane Crawford will put a store in Hong Kong's Times Square. That's rapid. The brand's first collection dropped just last autumn. The Dao view: Shanghai is a test of whether NikeSKIMS can work abroad. In the US, NikeSKIMS has earned its shot at a second season. Off the back of consumer interest, they've been snapping up floorspace and expanding their product offerings. Now they're showing real confidence. Without disclosed sales, its commercial impact remains harder to measure than its cultural one. Don't think of this Shanghai store as a victory lap. It's more like a test of whether the brand's sculpting, fashion-first take on performance wear travels.

Manchester welcomed the world's first dedicated women's football store in June 2026. Foudys caters exclusively to female players and enthusiasts, offering boot-fitting and period-wear advice. Founder Helen Hardy said women have been underserved by traditional sports retail, with stores "designed through a male lens". The shop focuses on a clearly defined niche rather than covering all sports or demographics. In July 2026, shapewear brand SKIMS opened its first international flagship on London's Regent Street. Co-founded by Kim Kardashian, the digitally native brand launched in 2019 as an e-commerce business before expanding to wholesale retail in 2020. The two-floor store exemplifies a "brand temple" concept, featuring a sculpture by artist Vanessa Beecroft.