Thai retailer Central eyes rebound in Europe after partner's bankruptcy

Selfridges parent overhauls department store ops amid headwinds

20250116N Selfridges

Central Group operates department stores across Europe, including the iconic Selfridges in London. (Photo by Sotaro Yumae) 

KENYA AKAMA, SOTARO YUMAE and EIKI HAYASHI, Nikkei staff writers

BANGKOK/LONDON/FRANKFURT, Germany -- Thai conglomerate Central Group is revamping its department store business in Europe after the bankruptcy filing by its partner left the group scrambling in the key market.

The retail group operated 40 stores across seven European countries as of the end of 2024, including Selfridges -- a luxury British department store founded in 1909 and known for its trademark yellow color scheme.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.