Coach, Inc., a marketer of modern classic American accessories, has announced the next phase of its growth strategy for Japan, with the completion of its present four-year plan in just three years. The company expects sales to more than double during the next four years to over 80 billion yen by 2009.

It will expand its multi-channel distribution model, primarily through the opening of new flagship and retail stores, as well as significantly increasing its presence in important department stores through the opening of new shop-in-shops and expanding key existing in-store locations. The company expects to open at least 10 new locations annually over the next few years, while continuing to maximise its productivity at existing locations.

Lew Frankfort, chairman and ceo of Coach, Inc. "We believe that through expansion and increased productivity, we can grow at least 20% annually in constant currency, doubling our sales base over the next four years and taking our market share to our goal of 15% from about 8% today. We now believe we could have at least 130 retail locations throughout Japan, including at least 15 flagship locations - more than double the current number.”

The company also announced that it is strengthening its leadership team at Coach Japan (CJI) later this spring, with the addition of two key executives. Mr. Norito Ebata will join the company as executive vice president, retail and customer service, and will be responsible for all Coach retail and factory store strategy and operations, driving all key sales and distribution initiatives. In addition, CJI will shortly be announcing the appointment of its first executive vice president and chief operating officer, a new position for the company. The chief operating officer will spearhead logistics initiatives as well as oversee administrative, finance and information technology functions.

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