Mark Faithfull

For much of the past decade, international hotel investors looking at the Middle East and North Africa have overwhelmingly gravitated toward the

Crocs, long defined by its iconic foam clogs, is expanding its focus into sandals, a rapidly growing category. This strategic shift, driven by consumer research showing Crocs has "permission to compete" in the segment, aims to broaden its appeal beyond the clog. Sandals generated $450 million last year, attracting new consumers and complementing existing sales. The company targets U.S. female consumers, leveraging TikTok for popular collections like Miami, which resonates with younger demographics. Personalization with Jibbitz is also extending to sandals. International markets, particularly India, are crucial due to year-round warm climates. Crocs sees sandals as a powerful gateway to capitalize on younger generations' embrace of comfort and self-expression.

The Deal Sheet is a weekly compilation of Greater London and beyond's biggest leases, sales, financing deals, construction updates and personnel moves.

Hollister is launching its first home and dorm collection, "The Hollister Collection at Target," on June 28. This collaboration, featuring nearly 60 products from bedding to décor, marks a significant expansion beyond apparel for the Abercrombie & Fitch-owned brand. Hollister aims to capitalize on the booming back-to-college market and evolve into a lifestyle brand, leveraging its strong growth as A&F's primary revenue engine. For Target, the partnership attracts Gen Z shoppers, strengthens its home category, and offers exclusive products. Both companies envision a long-term venture with future seasonal drops, aiming to introduce Hollister to new customers and deepen engagement with existing ones.

Unsurprisingly, sporting goods retailers stand to benefit directly from the World Cup, including Nike, Adidas, Puma, and sporting goods chains such as Dick's Sporting Goods and Fanatics. The World Cup’s younger audience profile also aligns with social commerce trends, limited-edition drops, and influencer-led marketing.

A major mixed-use development site in South Dublin's Cherrywood district has been brought to market for €40M, offering investors the opportunity to

Dublin's long-running hotel room shortage is facing fresh pressure just as the city attempts to grow tourism and attract more international business

Urban Sophistication, known for its viral phone cases, continues to defy traditional retail with its new Seoul store, uniquely situated in an off-retail house. Co-founder Elad Yam states location is key to the brand's message, prioritizing organic connection over conventional data-driven expansion. Founded by siblings in 2015, the brand evolved from apparel to phone accessories, now repositioning as a broader lifestyle label. Its successful Asian expansion, including a Tokyo store and Seoul's new location, leverages immersive "art pop-ups" and word-of-mouth in community-focused spaces. This strategy shuns grand openings, favoring subtle engagement and long-term commitment, guiding future US growth.

Prologis has gone public with a £12.6B ($16.6B) takeover bid for SEGRO after the UK logistics landlord rejected a deal that would rank among the largest real estate acquisitions in European history.

The property arm of retailer Ikea 's umbrella company, Ingka Group, is seeking new opportunities in the UK and looking to expand its retail, food