Taiwan’s Eslite to make Southeast Asian debut in Malaysia
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Taiwanese bookstore chain Eslite is preparing to launch in Kuala Lumpur.
Although final details have yet to be released, the new 3300–6600sqm store will likely trade in downtown Kuala Lumpur. The opening, scheduled for next year and potentially delayed due to Covid-19 concerns, will see Taiwan’s largest bookseller opening its first store in Malaysia. Earlier reports have suggested the firm has been seeking a partner in the territory for some time.
The 30-year-old chain is well known for its unique fusion retail business model as a bookstore, mall and cultural creative platform. It operates 48 stores in Taiwan as well as overseas outlets in Hong Kong, Mainland China and Japan. The Malaysian store will be the first Eslite outlet in Southeast Asia.
Despite the expansion, Eslite’s business has struggled in its home territory, prompting a series of high-profile store closures, including its flagship location in Dunnan where it famously traded 24 hours.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the planned size of Eslite's new store in Kuala Lumpur?
What is the planned size of Eslite's new store in Kuala Lumpur?
The new store is expected to be between 3300 and 6600 square metres. Its precise size, along with other final details, has not yet been fully released by the company.
Q.When is the new Eslite store in Malaysia scheduled to open?
When is the new Eslite store in Malaysia scheduled to open?
The opening is currently scheduled for next year. However, there is a possibility that this timeline could be delayed due to ongoing concerns related to Covid-19.
Q.Where else does Eslite currently operate stores outside of Taiwan?
Where else does Eslite currently operate stores outside of Taiwan?
Eslite operates several overseas outlets in other Asian territories. These include locations in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Japan, prior to this planned expansion into Malaysia.
Q.How has Eslite's business performed in its home country recently?
How has Eslite's business performed in its home country recently?
Despite its international expansion, Eslite has reportedly faced business difficulties in Taiwan. This has led to the closure of several prominent stores, including its well-known flagship Dunnan location.