Malta link up for Mamas & Papas

The deal with the Michele Peresso Group will see three new franchise stores open within Malta and Gozo over the next two years.

Allen Hill, the firm's international business development director, said: "The Mamas & Papas brand is quickly expanding over the whole of the southern Mediterranean and the agreement with the Michele Peresso Group signals the demand the brand is receiving across all European markets that are seeking out premium brands.

"We are delighted that Malta has joined our global family of international retail destinations."

Michael Peresso, of MPG, added: "The agreement allows MPG to cater to the domestic and international visitor market with a sophisticated portfolio of a globally recognised premium brand. We are delighted to bring the UK's number one parenting brand to Malta."

Mamas & Papas said the territory has experienced consistent population growth over the last 10 years and increased birth rate for the first time in five years.

The first franchise store is set to open next spring in Sliema. This will be followed by a two-storey flagship store in Iklin in autumn 2011. A third store will open on Gozo in spring 2012.

The Yorkshire Post revealed last month that Mamas & Papas is to move into the world's biggest consumer market after striking a deal with American retail giant, Babies R Us.