Central Europe is also high on the list of international retailers, with the Czech Republic forecast to see a doubling in the number of international retailers present over the five-years to 2007. Equally, Hungary can expect an 82% increase and Poland 61%.

At present, the UK has the highest total number of cross-border retailers with 514 international fascias trading in its city centres and shopping malls; followed by France with 431 brands and Spain with 378. The UK has also seen the biggest number of new international retailers over the past year with 29 new entrants.

Claire Barber, of Healey & Baker's Research & Consultancy team said: 'Our research shows that crossing borders is becoming a natural way of life for an increasing number of retailers making the most of retail opportunities in other European countries. However, this does not mean that we can underestimate the differences in cultural and market conditions that exist between the different markets in Europe.'