July 2025 – New Balance today announced the opening of its first-ever retail location at Place Vendôme, in Lusail, Qatar. The fresh retail concept is built to put people, not products, at the center of consumer experience. Designed around central seating gestures, the store aims to encourage customers to convene, draw inspiration from each other, and find their authentic style.
The concept will include an edited assortment of merchandise as well as visual storytelling to accompany select products, highlighting the makers and origins behind them, illuminating New Balance at the intersection of sport and culture. The selection of footwear and apparel will be curated so both an elite athlete and a fashion influencer can each envision their next great moment, side by side.
“The opening of our store in Vendome marks a milestone moment for the brand. The store is our first owned and operated store in Qatar & continues the great DTC momentum across the MEAI region.” said Stuart Henwood, Senior Director, Middle East, Africa and India at New Balance. He added, “Doha is a city built on vision and ambition, and we wanted to create a space that reflects that, one where our community can come together, feel inspired, and find confidence in their own style. Our sports & community partnerships with Al Sadd, Aspire & Doha Marathon by Ooredoo has already connected us to Qatar’s incredible running & sporting community, and this store strengthens our commitment to being part of the country’s vibrant future for the long term. To be located in Vendome, one of the most iconic premium malls in the region, is a great honor and we look forward to interacting & engaging with the Doha communities and showcasing our latest innovative footwear and apparel collections. We look forward to announcing more store launches and openings soon. We are only just getting started!”
Shane Eldstrom, CEO United Developers, said, “Welcoming New Balance to Place Vendôme adds a new dimension to our retail mix. As a brand at the intersection of sport and culture, they bring a fresh perspective that resonates with Doha’s dynamic spirit and we look forward to seeing how their presence, collaborations, and innovative products inspire our customers.”
Located on the first floor of Place Vendôme in Lusail, the new 267 sqm New Balance store brings the brand’s iconic athletic style and innovation to one of Qatar’s most prestigious shopping destinations.
The first Lusail location will have store hours of Sundays to Wednesday: 10AM – 11PM and Thursday to Saturday 10AM – 12 Midnight. For more information or to find a store near you, visit newbalance.com.
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About New Balance
New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, has the following purpose: Independent since 1906, we empower people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. New Balance employs 10,000 associates around the globe, and in 2024 reported worldwide sales of $7.8 billion. New Balance owns five athletic footwear factories in New England and one in Flimby, U.K. New Balance Made U.S. footwear contains a domestic value of 70% or more and makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s U.S. sales. To learn more about New Balance, please visit www.newbalance.com; for the latest press information visit http://newbalance.newsmarket.com.
