When brands look for new markets an obvious choice for many is Western Europe, where consumers have strong buying power, there’s grade A retail property, and market entry can be less baffling compared with tackling emerging markets.  Yet while many brands have successfully entered the European market, just as many - even well established brands - have failed.    That has left companies wondering whether they should try to build a retail presence in Europe - and if so - how to do it. I’m Jane Singer and welcome back to A Seat at The Table, where each week we get to hear from industry leaders and innovators who share their ideas, outlook and experience so that we can build stronger and more successful businesses. Today we are joined by Chris Igwe,  a top advisor to retailers who are looking to expand into Europe.  Early in his career Chris was Head of Real Estate, Europe for Foot Locker, and then Gap, before joining ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers), as Managing Director Europe.  Today he advise global retailers and brands on retail real estate, from strategy to implementation across EMEA.  Chris has worked with brands including 7 For All Mankind, Build A Bear Workshop, Nike, Michael Kors and others, as well as owners and investors such as EuroDisney, Value Retail, Deutsche Bank and many more. Today he joins us here on A Seat at The Table to talk about the current opportunities in the European market - and how to successfully enter this market. Chris will be discussing: 1. Key opportunities he sees in the European market right now. 2. Blindspots in brands’  strategy that cause them to fail in the European market. 3. What the future of European retail could look like 4. How foreign brands can build strong teams in Europe. USEFUL LINKS Asianet Consultant's website:   https://asianetconsultants.com Connect with Chris Igwe:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/speakerchrisigwe/ Chris Igwe's website:   www.igweinternational.com Visit A Seat at The Table's website at https://seat.fm