Uniqlo, the Japanese fashion brand, is expanding its presence in Vietnam with a new store in Thanh Hoa province. The store is expected to open on 15/10, located on the first floor of Aeon Mall, covering an area of about 1,000 square meters. This marks the brand's first retail presence in Thanh Hoa, representing a strategic move in Uniqlo's market expansion plan for the second half of the year, aiming to meet the shopping demands of both local residents and tourists.

Thanh Hoa province presents a compelling market for Uniqlo, driven by robust economic growth and expanding commercial activities. A report from the Thanh Hoa Department of Industry and Trade indicates that in 2025, the province's Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) was estimated at 333,617 billion VND, the highest in the North Central Coast region, marking an 8,27% increase year-on-year. Alongside this, commercial and service activities continue to expand. By 9/2026, the total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue in the province are projected to exceed 199,000 billion VND, an increase of 20,7% compared to 2025.

Economic, infrastructure, and service development contribute to increased appeal for international brands. Photo: Le Hoang

The province's tourism sector also underscores its market potential. Regarding tourism, Thanh Hoa welcomed over 16,2 million visitors last year, with total revenue estimated at 45,606 billion VND. This significant number of tourists, coupled with local demand, has helped the market expand from daily consumption to shopping, dining, entertainment, and experiential activities.

Beyond price and product, consumers are increasingly prioritizing quality, functionality, service, convenience, and the overall shopping experience. These factors align with Uniqlo's approach to developing LifeWear and expanding its network into new markets.

LifeWear products are popular among many customers. Photo: Uniqlo

Furthermore, Aeon Mall Thanh Hoa is positioned as a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub, serving local residents and the entire North Central Coast region. From shopping spaces, product displays, payment systems, and customer care to various amenities, market standards are increasingly operating according to more modern benchmarks.

In this context, Uniqlo's presence alongside Aeon Mall in Thanh Hoa can significantly contribute to economic integration and the modernization of urban life. Consumers will have the opportunity to access authentic products, experience services according to unified standards, and enjoy diverse choices in design, materials, and functionality. According to Uniqlo, the greatest impact of an international brand entering a new market extends beyond sales to its ability to reshape consumer habits. With the new store, the company introduces a new perspective on fashion to Thanh Hoa, emphasizing utility and personal comfort.

Consumers shop at a Uniqlo store in Da Nang. Photo: Uniqlo

Uniqlo, part of the Fast Retailing Group, launched in Japan in 1984. The brand adheres to the LifeWear philosophy, focusing on high-quality, essential products that cater to the daily wear needs of various customer segments. The company entered the Vietnamese market in 2019 with its first store in TP HCM, subsequently expanding to Hanoi and many other provinces and cities. With the new store at Aeon Mall Thanh Hoa and another upcoming in Ha Long, the brand will grow its nationwide system to 34 stores, while also boosting its online sales channel to further expand market reach.

Phu Cat