Looking around the store and getting a feel of its urbane classiness, I had the opportunity to ask the customers what their views were on the introduction of NEXT in Pakistan. Some of the customers present at the opening were individuals who had had the opportunity to shop at NEXT stores in England and other countries and their response to the introduction of NEXT in Lahore was ecstatic at best. When asked if the prices were nominal or over the top, a majority of them (as patrons to the brand) seemed to agree that they didn't mind the store's somewhat steep prices as the brand not only had style, but that it also brought with it quality as well. The general consensus was that brands such as NEXT only provided consumers with more diversity in shopping for western clothing.

Towards the end I had the pleasure to meet the man behind the franchise - Mr Yasin Piracha. Mr Piracha entered the franchising business last year with the launch of Mothercare (which today is present in both Lahore and Karachi) and divulged the fact that the site for the second NEXT outlet had not only been chosen, but that it was already work in progress! When asked why he decided to launch NEXT and had not chosen any other brand, his response was simple: "I wanted to go for a popular, subtle and uncomplicated fashion brand not being an extreme. I wanted to choose something that everybody would be able to understand". One had to agree as the brand really does cater to all ages - primarily to people with elegance and style. Towards the end of our discussion, Mr. Piracha stated that not only would awareness in the local market be created through the introduction of international brands, but that it was the best way to increase investments for a country.

NEXT's vision is primarily to cater to each class of the society and not just target a specific division. Giving consumer's value for money, the brand is sure to be an absolute hit with fashion conscious individuals across the city.