InsideJapan News Network

H&M plans to double the number of stores it operates in Japan over the next year, it has been revealed.

The high street retailer is due to invest heavily in the country because it sees Japan as an area of growth, Reuters reports.

Mie Anton, a spokeswoman for H&M in Tokyo, told the news provider: "Japan is definitely an important market and we still see potential for growth here.

"Japanese customers are very interested in fashion, so there is high consumption in Japan."

H&M recently announced that it is to sell David Beckham's forthcoming bodywear range exclusively.

The range will be available in over 40 countries and it is due to be released in time for Valentines Day next year.

Speaking about the partnership, Beckham said: "Over the past year, I've been developing my Bodywear range with my team and I'm extremely positive about what we have designed and produced.

"The final piece in the jigsaw was a retail partner who has the vision and capability to distribute these products globally. In H&M we have found the perfect partner to collaborate with."

Written by Susan Ballion