Saudi retailer Fawaz Alhokair and Company (FAAHC) announced on Sunday it had signed a four-year deal to open FIFA Official Stores in the Middle East. The agreement has been inked with Global Brands Group, the exclusive worldwide master licensee of FIFA, and will see FAAHC open 14 stores in the region. In addition, a number of 2010 FIFA World Cup Official Event Shop in Shops will be opened across the Middle East during the FIFA World Cup period this summer, the company said in a statement. Fawaz Alhokair and Company is currently responsible for about 70 international fashion brands across the Middle East and employs more than 4,000 people. The company, which turns over SR2 billion a year, will be opening the first FIFA Official flagship stores in Riyadh, with further flagship stores in the MENA region over the next four years. The FIFA Official Flagship Store promises fans an experience fusing football, fashion and culture. Simon Hawkins, SVP & GM, FIFA & Football Business Unit, Global Brands Group, said: “It's a very exciting time for us. Since we signed our agreement with FIFA, we have been working closely with them and are delighted to confirm Fawaz Alhokair and Company as our partner for this phase of our retail program roll
