Laura Ashley to Close UK Stores, Focus on China

London – 

London – UK brand Laura Ashley appears to be leaving the UK.

The fashion and home goods retailer, which is owned by Malaysian United Industries (MUI), will close some 40 UK stores amid its push into China, BBC reported on Monday.

It’s good news for Chinese fans of UK brands. Topshop reneged on plans to expand in China earlier this year – as did British store Marks & Spencer, who announced it would end its online sales in China last January. (caixinglobal)