The brand will occupy a 1,400 sq ft space in London’s dynamic fashion neighbourhood. K-Way will showcase its extensive selection of outerwear at Carnaby Street, across menswear, womenswear, childrenswear, and accessories. The London flagship store will incorporate unique products and act as a hub for events, building on K-Way’s experience in successful brand collaborations, which already includes luxury designers Fendi and Comme des Garçons, and streetwear brands such as Universal Works and Palace.
K-Way has become so iconic in Western Europe that it is listed in French and Italian dictionaries, signifying a ‘cagoule’. The now 60-year-old brand, an innovator in waterproof design, is backed by Permira, an investor partner that has supported the growth of dozens of retailers, such as Carnaby Street and Covent Garden favourites Dr Martens and Reformation.
This West End debut space, within the Shaftesbury Capital portfolio, places the brand alongside other retailers committed to establishing a strong physical retail presence, including the recent signing of Edikted for its European debut store. Benefiting from elevated footfall and a diverse consumer base spanning tourists, office workers, and local residents, the destination is often a first-choice location for brands new to the UK market.
“As one of London’s busiest shopping destinations, Carnaby Street is so often at the forefront of brands’ ‘must-have’ locations, and K-Way is no exception. We are focused on partnering with ambitious brands that elevate our customer mix and stand out in the West End, and the inclusion of K-Way is evidence of that approach. Its track record of partnership, collaboration with other quality brands and how it’s delivered, has created a real sense of excitement about what they can bring to Carnaby Street, and how our visitors will respond to it,” says William Oliver, Director of Retail & Restaurant Leasing at Shaftesbury Capital.
“Our goal for K-Way is to pursue a path of structured growth and consolidation across Europe’s key markets. The opening on Carnaby Street represents a pivotal step in this strategy: an iconic location with strong cultural and creative relevance, that offers international visibility and direct engagement with a highly engaged community,” adds Lorenzo Boglione, CEO of K-Way.
This announcement follows the news that US fashion brand, Edikted, has signed for its European standalone debut at 52-55 Carnaby Street, the first of its kind outside of the United States. The 4,800 sq ft flagship store will stock an extensive selection of women’s apparel and accessories inspired by streetwear, trending looks, and runway attire.
