The H&M Group is preparing to introduce more of its international brand portfolio to shoppers in Thessaloniki. The Swedish fashion multinational, which first entered the Greek market in 2007, plans to open its first COS store in Thessaloniki in early March.
Situated at the busy intersection of Tsimiski and Aristotelous streets, the multi-level store is expected to become a focal point for consumers interested in premium, minimalist design. Although lowered blinds at the location may not signal an imminent opening, well-informed sources tell Voria.gr that work inside is progressing.
COS, short for "Collection of Style", is positioned as the group's higher-end label, known for architectural lines and timeless aesthetics. Since launching its first store on London's Regent Street in 2007, the brand has grown to around 264 stores across 48 countries.
At the same time, sources indicate that the group is assessing Thessaloniki for the potential expansion of ARKET, a newer concept launched in Stockholm in 2017. ARKET offers womenswear, menswear, childrenswear and homeware grounded in Scandinavian simplicity, and often incorporates in-store cafés serving seasonal and vegetarian options.
The brand currently operates around 40 stores across Europe, with further openings planned in Norway, Austria and Ireland alongside its Greek debut. Its first store in Greece is due to open in central Athens in the coming days.
Founded in 1947 in Västerås by Erling Persson, the group has evolved from a single women's wear shop into a global retailer employing over 60,000 people. Today, its brands, including H&M, COS, ARKET, Monki, Weekday and &OtherStories, are also available to Greek consumers through online platforms.
By Lina Tsireka - adapted from Greek by Vassia Barba
