WHP Global Announces International Expansion Plans for Express

WHP Global (WHP) has announced plans for the global expansion of the Express fashion brand as part of its strategic partnership with Express, Inc.  

WHP Global recently signed long-term licensing deals to bring the Express brand to new markets, including Indonesia with PT MAP and Paraguay with Kemsa, as well as grow the brand’s presence in Mexico with IB Group, a new anchor retail partner in the territory. In addition, WHP Global entered into a license agreement with existing Express international partner, Fastco, to grow the brand’s retail footprint in Central America with the opening of four new Express retail flagship stores in key locations through 2026. 

“Bringing the Express brand into new and emerging markets is our first major move for the brand since entering into a strategic partnership with Express to scale the iconic fashion brand and expand its international reach,” says Yehuda Shmidman, global chairman, chief executive officer, WHP Global. “We are excited to bring on a strong network of best-in-class retail companies in these key markets as we embark on the next chapter in the evolution of the Express brand.” 

In January, Express and WHP Global entered a mutually transformative, strategic partnership which includes an intellectual property joint venture intended to scale the Express brand through new domestic category licensing and international expansion opportunities. WHP’s international strategy for the Express brand includes a full omnichannel launch beginning in 2024 with the opening of flagship stores and e-commerce channels featuring men’s and women’s apparel as well as select categories including footwear, intimates, accessories and more. A shop-in-shop concept will also be introduced in Mexico and Indonesia.