Chupa Chups opens 5,000-strong chain

Chupa Chups is planning to open 5,000 branded retail outlets worldwide over the next three years.

The venture will boost the confectioner’s image and create “Chupa Chups spaces”, according to the company. The shops will sell Chupa Chups’ confectionery, such as lollipops and Smint mints. It will also stock licensed products including Chupa Chups’ forthcoming range of branded beauty products, to be manufactured by Coty (MW July 5, 2001). The company wants to open stores in shopping centres, airports and theme parks, in addition to opening department store concessions.

A Chupa Chups spokeswoman says that the European market will be targeted first before the stores are launched in the US. She adds that the UK could be one of the first countries to be targeted, as it is one of Chupa Chups’ strongest markets. The company aims eventually to make between 15 and 25 per cent of its revenues from the initiative.