Ayo Amusan is redefining Nigeria’s retail space by directly bringing premium global fashion brands to Nigerian consumers through world-class stores, strategic partnerships, and immersive shopping experiences.
Ayo Amusan is the CEO of Persianas Retail, a company that brings premium global brands like Puma, Lacoste, Hugo Boss, GUESS, Hackett, and Armani Exchange directly to Nigerian consumers.
Quick facts
Founded in 2009, Persianas Retail is headquartered in Nigeria and operates in major cities, including Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Ibadan, and Lagos. The company manages renowned brands through its various retail formats, including its flagship multi-brand concept, ‘The Mix’, and its diverse retail space, ‘The Hub’.
As of 2024, the company reports $47 million in annual revenue and employs over 90 staff members. With 13 stores and growing, Persianas Retail continues to strengthen its footprint in Nigeria’s premium retail sector.
What Ayo did differently
To begin with, Amusan saw that Nigeria’s retail sector lacked structure and variety. Malls were being built, but the actual stores did not offer much. She decided to bridge that gap by bringing in global fashion names and giving Nigerian shoppers direct access to authentic products without the hassle of travel or middlemen.
From there, she concentrated on securing exclusive partnerships. Persianas Retail possesses exclusive rights for many of the brands it sells. This means that if you purchase from them, you’re buying from an authorised local source.
Ayo Amusan didn’t stop at product selection. She made it her mission to build a complete retail experience. She emphasised store design, customer service, and brand education, ensuring that every retail location was consistent with international standards. Whether customers shop in Lekki or Abuja, they get the same premium experience you would expect in New York or London.
Eventually, this vision led to the launch of two standout concepts: The Mix, a multi-brand store that brings together several global fashion labels under one roof, and The Hub, a creative retail space focused on tech, books, film, music, and other lifestyle offerings. These formats allowed Persianas to diversify while supporting smaller and emerging business sectors.
Amusan also understood the power of pop culture. One of Persianas’ biggest hits was the PUMA x Davido collaboration. This game-changer boosted sales and strengthened the brand’s and Nigerian consumers’ emotional connection.
Impact beyond fashion
The founder’s impact goes beyond fashion. Persianas now employs nearly 100 people and focuses on promoting women into leadership roles. Over time, her work began to get global recognition. Ayo Amusan is now a member of the Business of Fashion’s (BoF 500) list of influential fashion leaders. She has earned her place in both fashion and business circles for bringing in big brands and proving that high-end retail can thrive in Nigeria.
