Hamleys opens 1st Middle East flagship toy store in Amman,Hamleys holds a VIP opening in its headquarters

(Amman, 18th June, 2008): Hamleys, iconic UK toy retailer, inaugurated its first store outside Europe, choosing Amman, Jordan as its debut into the Middle East.

Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Ms. Sarah Hildersley - Head of UK Trade & Investment, who represented the British Embassy in Jordan, Gudjon Reynisson, Hamleys Group CEO, and Mr. Imad Bukhari, Hamleys Jordan CEO, the store was officially opened to the public. The VIP opening was also attended by Mr. Dave Meekings - Hamleys UK International Development Manager. 

"We'd like to see a Hamleys toy store in every capital city in the world, and this launch is considered a stepping-stone in our ambitious plans to further grow the brand, as it will be our first store outside of Europe and the first within the Middle East," said Mr. Gudjon Reynisson - Hamleys Group CEO.

 "We are all very excited, and we aim at having Hamleys offer customers a magical experience not only for the kids but also for the whole family. Within every adult there remains a child just waiting to break free and enjoy toys, old and new" added Mr. Imad Bukhari, Hamleys Jordan CEO.

London's landmark has secured for itself a prominent location on Mecca Street in the heart of Jordan's capital, Amman. The new state-of-the art store is over 21,000 square feet of space, and is stretched across three storeys. Hamleys Jordan has opened its doors to the young nation, offering thousands of different toys and gifts for all ages, including a wide range of classic favorites, such as Hamleys' branded soft toys and animals, pre-school toys, family and travel games, outdoor activity tools, educational toys, arts and crafts.

Hamleys Jordan, not only the first store inside the Middle East but the first outside of Europe, is set to become the leading toy store in the kingdom and is expected to be a key attraction for both children and grown ups from across the region.

Hungry shoppers will be able to grab a bite to eat at Hamleys Café, which will sell delicious and nutritious meals and snacks, for both parents and children.
With Hamleys opening its doors, Jordanians can now rediscover the magic and excitement of toy shopping - it's like welcoming the holidays every day!

"Hundreds of children gathered in our headquarters for the VIP family opening. Joy, excitement and glee were very clear on the children faces. Once they stepped into Hamleys, and they really took on the Hamleys experience we knew we had reached out and touched every child's dream. This is our aim and what we will continue to create every day," Mr. Bukhari concluded.

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© Press Release 2008