Williams-Sonoma group plans to expand its footprint in Australia, with the US homewares giant set to open eight new stores this year.

Laura Alber, CEO of Williams-Sonoma, said during the group’s fourth quarter earnings presentation last week the group’s global expansion was an important growth vehicle and the company expects to open eight sites in Australia in 2014.

Williams-Sonoma’s Australian flagship opened in May 2013 at Sydney’s Bondi Junction, with four of its brands – Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, and West Elm – sharing a 2040sqm space.

In September 2013, the retailer opened its fifth store and second West Elm location along Melbourne’s Chapel St.