Middle East Franchise Fallout: A Cautionary Tale for Retailers Mothercare's announcement that its main Middle Eastern franchise partner will close most stores next year has sent shockwaves through the retail industry.
On closer inspection, this appears to be a localized issue with far reaching consequences.
The conflict in Iran has had a significant impact on Mothercare's business, with sales plummeting by over 40% in the year leading up to March 28.