How Claire's Stores Has Grown its Brand Internationally

Lessons Learned
Fielding wrapped up his presentation by citing seven lessons that Claire's has learned as it's expanded its business abroad:

1. Do the necessary research before making any decisions.
2. Think "glocal," which Fielding refers to as having a global view combined with local expertise.
3. Blend expertise with brand experts, which includes getting "boots on the ground."
4. Stay flexible and nimble so that you can quickly react to unforeseen problems, which will come up.
5. Pick the right partners to work with. Look for vendors that have a passion for your brand, stable capital structure and have worked with other brands in this capacity.
6. Think digital and physical. Fielding noted that launching an e-commerce site in an international market before opening a physical store can often be a lower risk and lower cost way to dip your toes in the water to see if the demand is there for further investment.
7. Expect the unexpected and be prepared to work hard.