Eastern Iceland Stores Expand to Akureyri Market
Three East Iceland stores have expanded to Akureyri, bringing design goods and sportswear to northern markets. The businesses are testing urban demand while maintaining their regional roots. This retail expansion highlights growing confidence in Iceland's northern economy.
Three retail stores from East Iceland recently opened branches in Akureyri. These businesses have long served customers from the northern region. They now see opportunities to expand their operations.
The expansion was covered in local media reports. The stores include Hús handanna and River from Egilsstaðir, plus Blóðberg from Seyðisfjörður.
Blóðberg opened first in 2023. Owner Erna Helgadóttir focuses on design products, including items from Farmers Market.
River opened further north this summer. María Lena Heiðarsdóttir took over River's operations in Egilsstaðir in 2024. She previously launched her M Fitness sportswear brand in Akureyri during 2023.
María Lena explained the decision in a statement. "River has always combined sports and fashion retail successfully. After taking over River, we wanted to test how the store would work with M Fitness products. Since we already had retail space on Tryggvabraut street, we decided to open River in the same building."
This expansion shows how regional businesses are testing urban markets. The moves make economic sense given Akureyri's larger customer base. Still, maintaining distinct brand identities while sharing space presents operational challenges.
East Iceland businesses appear confident about northern market potential. Their expansion could signal growing retail competition in Iceland's second-largest urban area.