H&M Global Takeover Effort Forges East

In eager anticipation of the release of the Madonna’s H&M collection, Chinese fans queued for blocks and blocks awaiting a rumored appearance from the Western pop queen. 

Time reports:

"Madge was a no-show, but the long lines lasted for weeks. The draw was
her line of trench coats, kimono dresses and catsuits for the Swedish
retailer H&M, which debuted on March 10 at H&M’s newest store
in Hong Kong and in April at H&M in Shanghai. In these cities,
shopping is as important as stargazing, and that’s why the $2 billion
firm made its first moves into Asia here: H&M wants a share of
China’s $60 billion apparel market. To do that it may have to redefine
its trademark "cheap chic" aesthetic."

H&M’s assault on that "cheap chic" target market is relentless.  Less than a year ago, the now monolithic company was hinting at such.  But now, to break into the largest market in the world to such a response, damn.  Hennes & Mauritz can’t stop, won’t stop.  The numbers are there, for now.  But there are doubts as to how much longer the market can sustain such a barrage. 

[via Agenda Inc]