International Strategy

Best Buy U.K. today unveiled a site for use on smartphones as it aims to improve its multichannel presence. The retailer, which launched its first big-box store in the U.K. in April 2010, has had a disappointing first year as the electricals sector continues to struggle during the ongoing economic downturn.

Groupon's joint venture in China has closed offices in some cities and laid off hundreds of employees, raising questions about the online coupon company's strategy in a big market ahead of its planned initial public offering.

The Gap announced plans to open its first stores in Vietnam and Guam through its franchise channel. In Vietnam, the first Gap stores will open this October followed by the first Banana Republic store in 2012.

Lowe’s launched Lowes.com en Español, a Spanish language option that enhances Lowe’s ability to meet the needs and expectations of Hispanic consumers.

J.Crew is packing up and shipping out — the beloved retailer is opening its first store outside of the U.S. in Toronto on Aug. 18th. The company is also exploring partnerships in China and Japan.

Luxottica Group announced that it's entered into an agreement to acquire Erroca, which operates more than 60 sunglass stores in Israel. Over time, the stores will be rebranded under the Sunglass Hut brand. The deal marks Luxottica's entry into the Israeli sunglass specialty store market, although the company already has a solid presence in the country through its wholesale division.

Forever 21 has opened its eagerly awaited London flagship store. The popular U.S. fashion brand has created a shopping frenzy by landing on London’s Oxford Street. Scores of eager shoppers lined the streets for the store’s launch earlier this week and were treated to complimentary ice cream, sweets and goody bags as they waited for the doors to open.

Williams-Sonoma is planning a U.K. launch in 2012, according to a report by The Independent newspaper. The report said the company has appointed a U.K. retail property agent and plans to open its first store in the first half of next year.

Amazon.com is poised to enter India and could start operations next year in a country where a growing middle class could substantially boost global revenues.

QuiBids.com, an online entertainment retail auction site, is expanding internationally as the company officially launched operations in Canada on July 22. QuiBids has made a name for itself in the e-commerce space by providing a fun and unique online experience for its customers and offering great deals on a variety of popular consumer products.