A new report by JLL highlights a significant increase in retail space supply across India, due to evolving consumer preferences and a thriving economy. It highlights the vibrancy of India's retail sector with an increase in supply of fresh retail spaces across the country. The report, ‘India Retail: Evolving to a new dawn’, indicates top seven cities viz Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai are set to witness a substantial influx of new retail spaces. This growth is being driven by factors like, rising consumerism, increased institutional participation, and the strategic expansion of both domestic and international retail brands.

Top seven cities take the lead

Explosive growth: Top seven cities Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai are projected to clock in 43 per cent rise in organized retail space by 2027, adding approximately 45 million sq ft through 88 new retail developments. This surpasses the supply witnessed in the past decade (2014-2023), which was around 38 million sq ft.

Shift towards larger centers: The average size of new retail developments is expected to increase by 30 per cent, from 391,099 sq ft to 507,341 sq ft. This indicates a growing preference for larger, experience-led retail centers.

Zonal distribution: North India is expected to lead the fresh supply with a 44 per cent share, followed by South India at 30 per cent. Notably, Tier II and III cities are also experiencing a sharp increase in retail development, with 25 million sq. ft. of new space expected by 2029.

Delhi NCR leads: Delhi NCR is expected to contribute the most to the upcoming mall supply with a 31 per cent share, followed by Chennai with 16 per cent and Hyderabad 14 per cent.

Table: Zonal distribution of upcoming retail spaces

Several factors are driving this retail growth. Experiential retail is one of them. As consumers are increasingly seeking unique shopping experiences, its driving developers to create larger, more engaging retail spaces. Another important catalyst is omnichannel retail strategy being adopted by brands. While online retail continues to grow, physical stores remain crucial for brand building and providing an immersive shopping experience. Moreover, both domestic and international brands are expanding their retail footprint in India, which is pushing up demand for fresh spaces. And ever increasing institutional investment in retail real estate highlights the sector's strong growth potential. In fact, growing confidence in India's retail sector led to institutional investment being almost 44 per cent (2.7 mn sq ft) of new supply in 2023.

Malls vs high streets

While the report doesn't explicitly break down the share of fresh retail space between malls and high streets, it highlights the growing dominance of malls, particularly in major cities. Malls offer a curated experience, a wider variety of brands, and amenities like parking and entertainment, making them attractive to both consumers and retailers. However, high streets continue to thrive in specific locations, offering a more localized and community-driven experience. The upcoming Lulu Mall in Lucknow is a prime example of this trend. Spread across 2.2 million sq. ft., it will be one of the largest malls in India, featuring a wide range of international and domestic brands, a multiplex, a family entertainment center, and a food court with diverse culinary options.

Table: Regional trends

JLL's report underscores the robust growth of India's retail sector. With increasing demand for experiential retail, strong institutional investment, and the entry of international brands, the future of retail in India is good. The ongoing development of larger, more sophisticated retail centers is poised to transform the shopping experience for consumers across the country.

The Indian fashion retail sector is witnessing a sizzling growth spurt, with global fast-fashion brands vying for a piece of the pie. Among the key players are international fast-fashion giants like Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, and Gap, all vying for a piece of this lucrative pie. But who's leading the pack, and how are they tailoring their strategies for the unique Indian market?

H&M takes the lead, for now

Currently, H&M seems to be a step ahead. H&M entered the Indian market in 2011, giving them a head start in establishing brand recognition and customer loyalty. A report by Coherent Market Insights pegs H&M as the leader in the Indian fast-fashion market, followed by Zara. This dominance can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, H&M boasts the widest physical presence in India, with over 50 stores compared to Zara's 30 (as of June 2024). Secondly, H&M offers a wider product range, catering not just to women but also men and children, giving it a broader customer base. As H&M's India country manager opines, “In India, we see a strong demand for fashion and value for money, and we are committed to offering our customers the latest trends at the best price.”

Table: Brands and their store network

A growing retail footprint

All four brands – H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, and Gap – are steadily expanding their physical presence. Uniqlo, for instance, witnessed a 60 per cent jump in sales in the past two years and plans to double its store count in India by 2025. Zara and H&M are likely to follow suit. This aggressive expansion indicates the immense potential these brands see in the Indian market.

While all four brands operate in the fast-fashion space, they have subtle differences in their approach:

Zara: Known for its high fashion-inspired designs and quicker turnaround times, targeting trend-conscious young adults.

H&M: Offers a wider variety of clothing for men, women, and children, appealing to families and budget-conscious shoppers.

Uniqlo: Focuses on high-quality basics and innovative fabrics like LifeWear, attracting a more mature audience seeking comfort and functionality.

Gap: Offers classic American casual wear with a focus on denim, targeting a broad customer base.

The Indian fast-fashion market is already quite competitive. Not only are these global giants vying for market share, but they also face competition from domestic players like Fabindia and AND, as well as the growing popularity of online retailers like Myntra and Flipkart.

To differentiate themselves, these brands are focusing on. First an omnichannel strategy that is blending online and offline experiences with features like click-and-collect and mobile shopping apps. They are also taking up sustainability initiatives in earnest. Uniqlo's focus on recycled materials and H&M's garment collection program are examples of efforts to tap into the growing eco-conscious consumer base. Moreover, customization and personalization is also a top priority. Zara's studio concept allows limited edition pieces and tailoring options, while H&M offers personalized recommendations through its loyalty program.

Financial performance a mixed bag

Financial performance varies across these brands. H&M has reported strong growth in India, with a 40 per cent increase in sales over the past two years. Similarly, Zara also saw 40 per cent rise in its topline. Uniqlo has also seen a significant jump in sales, while Gap is facing challenges in some global markets. H&M's success in India highlights the importance of localization. In 2019, they launched a collection featuring saris and kurtas with a modern twist, which resonated well with Indian customers. This demonstrates the power of adapting product offerings to local preferences.

The Indian fast-fashion market is witnessing robust growth, and global giants are well-positioned to capitalize on this. By focusing on a combination of affordability, trend-driven designs, and catering to local preferences, these brands can ensure their continued success in the Indian market. However, the fight for the top spot is likely to intensify, with competition set to become even more fierce in coming years.

04 January 2024, Mumbai

Forget the old gym uniform. Today's activewear is a chic blend of function and fashion, and Indian consumers are sprinting toward this stylish trend. As fitness becomes a way of life for more and more people, the demand for fashionable and comfortable clothing has skyrocketed. 

Comfort and quality reign supreme, according to industry surveys, fueling a boom in the Indian sports and athleisure market.

The numbers speak for themselves. In 2021, this market reached a whopping 1.86 billion U.S. dollars, and it's projected to nearly triple by 2025, hitting a staggering 4.73 billion U.S. dollars. 

Footwear leads the charge, generating 1.06 billion U.S. dollars in 2021 and projected to increase by 21% in just four years. 

These impressive figures paint a vivid picture: India's love affair with athleisure is just getting started.

But what's driving this trend? Several factors come into play:

• The rise of fitness enthusiasts: Indians are embracing healthy lifestyles, with gym memberships, yoga classes, and outdoor activities becoming increasingly popular. This active population needs clothes that keep them feeling good, both physically and aesthetically.
• Blurring the lines between gym and street: Athleisure isn't just for workouts anymore. These versatile pieces are making their way into everyday wardrobes, offering a relaxed yet stylish look for errands, coffee dates, or even work-from-home days.
• Trendsetting comfort: Gone are the days of stiff, uncomfortable sportswear. Today's athleisure prioritizes functionality without sacrificing style. Breathable fabrics, innovative designs, and flattering cuts make exercising and relaxing equally enjoyable.
• The influence of global brands and social media: From international sportswear giants to homegrown startups, brands are catering to India's growing demand for stylish and high-quality athleisure. Social media, meanwhile, fuels the trend by showcasing how to rock these pieces both on and off the gym floor.

This isn't just a fashion phenomenon; it's a cultural shift. India's athleisure boom reflects a growing focus on health, comfort, and individuality. 

And with the market projected to soar in the coming years, one thing's clear: the future of Indian fashion is sporty, stylish, and sweaty.

5 Key Insights :

1. Gym to Glam: Athleisure blends fashion & comfort, winning active Indians' hearts.
2. Market Boom: $1.86B to $4.73B by 2025, athleisure rockets skyward.
3. Footwear Leads: $1.06B and growing, shoes pave the sporty path.
4. Comfort Reigns: Functional fashion, breathable fabrics, and flattering fits rule the day.
5. Social Influence: Brands & influencers fuel the trend, athleisure rocks beyond the gym.

Latest Textile Events

Khadi, the hand-spun, handwoven fabric of India, carries a legacy interwoven with the nation's struggle for independence. More than just a textile, it was a symbol of self-reliance and resistance against colonial rule, championed by Mahatma Gandhi himself. Today, khadi is experiencing a resurgence, not just as a symbol of national pride, but as a fashionable, sustainable, and globally recognized fabric.

A long legacy

Khadi's story begins in the early 20th century when Mahatma Gandhi urged Indians to boycott foreign-made goods and embrace khadi as a means of economic self-sufficiency. The spinning wheel, or charkha, became a symbol of the Swadeshi movement, and khadi, the fabric it produced, became synonymous with the fight for freedom.

Post-independence, the Indian government established the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) in 1957 to promote and develop the khadi industry. While khadi remained culturally significant, it faced challenges in keeping up with modern textile production.

A resurgence in the modern era

In recent years, khadi has seen remarkable resurgence, and many factors have been at work behind this growth and popularity.

Growing awareness of sustainable and ethical fashion: Consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives to fast fashion, and khadi, with its eco-friendly production process and emphasis on fair labor practices, aligns perfectly with this trend.

Government initiatives and support: The government has launched various schemes and campaigns to promote khadi, including subsidies, marketing support, and design interventions.

Celebrity endorsements and fashion shows: Prominent figures from various fields have embraced khadi, increasing its visibility and appeal. Fashion designers have showcased khadi collections on national and international runways, demonstrating its versatility and contemporary relevance.

Rising demand for natural and handcrafted products: In a world of mass production, the unique texture and handcrafted nature of khadi appeal to those seeking authenticity and individuality.

Growing global interest: Khadi's unique texture, handcrafted appeal, and sustainable credentials have attracted attention from international brands and consumers.

Table: Khadi’s growth through the years

Statistics reveal, the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of khadi sales over the past nine years is approximately 22 per cent. As per industry reports, the projected market size for khadi by 2027 is expected to be around Rs 10,000 crore ($1.2 billion).

Khadi in the world of fashion

Designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee believes, "Khadi is the fabric of India's soul." No wonder more and more Indian designers are increasingly drawn to khadi's unique texture, drape, and versatility. Its natural fibers allow breathability and comfort, while its handcrafted nature lends each piece a distinct character. As designer Ritu Kumar puts it, "Khadi is not just a fabric, it is a philosophy, a way of life."

Ritu Kumar and Sabyasachi Mukherjee have long championed khadi, incorporating it into their signature styles. And younger designers like Rahul Mishra and Anavila Misra have further elevated khadi's status with their innovative designs and global appeal. Mishra opines, “Khadi's beauty lies in its imperfections, its hand-spun, handwoven texture." Global fashion houses like Dior and Gucci too have also experimented with khadi, incorporating it into their collections and showcasing its potential on the international stage. For example, Maria Grazia Chiuri, creative director of Dior, featured khadi extensively in her Fall 2022 collection, showcasing its elegance and versatility in a range of silhouettes. Gucci partnered KVIC to create a limited-edition collection featuring khadi, highlighting the fabric's sustainable credentials and global appeal.

While khadi's future looks bright, some challenges remain. For example, meeting growing demand without compromising the handcrafted nature of khadi is crucial. Protecting the livelihoods of Khadi artisans is essential for the industry's sustainability. Meanwhile, continuously evolving and adapting to contemporary fashion trends will ensure khadi's continued relevance.

By addressing these challenges and continuing to promote its unique qualities, Khadi can weave a brighter future for itself and the artisans who bring it to life. The rise and rise of khadi is not just an economic phenomenon; it is a cultural revival, a testament to the enduring power of heritage and craftsmanship in a rapidly changing world.

India’s e-commerce giant, Flipkart has reappointed Lydia Jett as an independent member of its board of directors. Marking Jett's second stint on the board, this appointment brings her valuable experience back to the company.

Jett previously served on Flipkart's board from 2017, representing its major investor SoftBank. She stepped down earlier in 2024 after leaving her role as managing partner at SoftBank. Jett's expertise lies in e-commerce and consumer internet, having overseen these sectors for SoftBank. Prior to Flipkart, Jett also held a board position at Snapdeal, a competitor in the Indian e-commerce landscape.

In her second stint at Flipkart, Jett will collaborate with senior Walmart executives who hold seats on the board, as well as Kalyan Krishnamurthy, Group CEO, Flipkart and KekiMistry, CEO, HDFC. Her appointment comes as Flipkart weighs a potential initial public offering (IPO). The company has been restructuring its management team with a focus on achieving profitability in preparation for this potential IPO.

In addition to Flipkart, Jett also holds board positions at Coupang (South Korea) and Ozon (Russia).

03 November 2023, Mumbai

A recent study by NeoGrowth found that most Indian retailers are not worried about e-commerce disrupting their traditional business.
Only 18% of the surveyed retailers said that online retail hurt their sales, while the remaining 82% claimed that they did not face any challenges from e-commerce. Some of them even reported an increase in sales due to e-commerce.

Hybrid mode
The study also shows that the sectors that are least vulnerable to e-commerce are consumer durables and electronics, food and beverage, and lifestyle & fashion.

Latest Textile Events

12 September 2024, Mumbai

India’s first all-white lifestyle brand, Kingdom of White has introduces 11 distinct shades of white in its latest collection titled, ‘Shades of White. ’Through this collection, the brand offers a fresh take on resort wear with a luxurious yet relaxed approach.

Known for its dedication to timeless elegance, the brand blends sophistication with effortless comfort in this collection. The collection reimagines resort living with a unique palette of white hues, each reflecting different moments of a vacationer’s day. It features soft, drop-shoulder silhouettes crafted from breathable, lightweight fabrics that prioritise both comfort and style.

Designed for modern travelers, the versatile pieces in this collection are perfect for every setting, from serene beach mornings to elegant evening soirées. Their unique designs ensure that wearers can seamlessly transition from casual daytime activities to more refined evening events.

A few of the wardrobe essentials in the collection include sumptuously soft knit tees and impeccably tailored shirts, exemplifying Kingdom of White’s meticulous attention to detail and quality. The collection also offers relaxed-fit bottoms that ensure ease of movement, while the knit tees with their artisanal craftsmanship, clean lines and airy materials, are ideal for sun-filled days. Incorporating unique textures and patterns, the shirts offer a contemporary twist on classic resort wear.

Vineet Haralalka, CEO, Kingdom of White, states, marking an exciting chapter in the brand’s journey, the collection redefinesthe concept of white, It offers an evolving narrative for the discerning man who values elegance by blending premium fabrics with effortless fits. Focusing on thoughtful details and on-trend designs, the collection resonates with the modern traveler’s spirit.

From leisurely strolls on sun-drenched streets to peaceful seaside dinners, the ‘Shades of White’ collection captures the essence of refined resort living. Through this collection, the brand Kingdom of White invites style-conscious individuals to explore a new dimension of white, where simplicity meets sophistication in every piece.

Latest Fashion news

E-commerce platform Snapdeal has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Digital India Bhashini, an Independent Business Division established by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) within the Digital India Corporation (DIC). This collaboration aims to address India's linguistic barriers in online shopping.

Signed between Bharat Venishetti, Snapdeal and Amitabh Nag, CEO, Bhashini, the partnership seeks to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop voice-first technology products and services in nine vernacular languages, enhancing language translation efforts and promoting digital inclusion across India.

HimanshuChakrawarti, CEO, Snapdeal, states, the partnership combinesBhashini’s expertise in language solutions with Snapdeal’s robust e-commerce platform to empower individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This initiative aligns seamlessly with Snapdeal’s mission to enhance accessibility and affordability in online shopping, particularly in Tier III cities and beyond."

An e-commerce company targeting the value price segment, Snapdeal offers products in categories such as home, fashion, beauty, and personal care. Over 90 per cent of the products on the platform are priced under Rs. 1,000, and more than 86 per cent of the orders come from outside metro cities. Over the years, Snapdeal has developed expertise in serving mid-income users who have a budget-oriented approach to spending and primarily access the Internet via mobile phones.

Amitabh Nag, CEO, Bhashini, adds, the innovative use of AI and voice-first technology will help break barriers, foster greater digital participation, and create a more connected and inclusive digital ecosystem for all Indians.

Launched by the Indian Prime Minister in July 2022 under the National Language Technology Mission, Bhashini aims to overcome language barriers, ensuring citizens can access digital services in their native languages. The initiative provides technology translation services in 22 scheduled Indian languages.

Showcasing an extensive range of athlesiure collections by both Indian and international brands, the Athleisure Fest, currently being held at the Pacific Outlet Mall in Jasola, aims to blend fitness with fashion. The fest is designed to engage shoppers of all ages through various activities that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Shoppers at the fest can participate in activities such as the ‘Cycling Challenge’, ‘Running Squad’, ‘Boxing Challenge’, and ‘Zumba’. Developed in partnership with local yoga centers and gyms, these activities provide professional support and encourage whole-family participation.

To run until July 7, the fest features the latest athleisure wear from renowned brands like Puma, Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Asics, New Balance, and Skechers. The collections include a variety of clothing and accessories, catering to diverse fitness needs and fashion preferences.

Located in New Delhi’s Jasola neighborhood, Pacific Outlet Mall is a project by the Pacific Group, a real estate and mall development company. The mall is home to brands such as American Eagle, Birkenstock, Arrow, CaratLane, and Calvin Klein, among others, and offers year-round discounts.

Denim, the fabric of rebellion and self-expression, is undergoing a new revolution -- customization. From personalized fits to unique washes and embellishments, customers are increasingly demanding jeans that reflect their individuality. This trend is rippling across the globe, driven by diverse factors like rising affluence, technological advancements, and a growing desire for sustainable and ethical fashion.

Global growth, regional nuances
The custom denim market is expected to reach $6.7 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 11.2 per cent. While North America currently holds the largest market share, Asia Pacific is predicted to witness the fastest growth, fueled by a young, tech-savvy population and rising disposable incomes.
Market analysis suggests a significant rise in customized denim sales. A report by Mordor Intelligence projects the global customized jeans market will reach $1.7 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 18.5 per cent. As Sarah Ahmed, CEO of Unspun says, “Customization is not just a trend it's a fundamental shift in consumer behavior. People want clothes that are made for them, not just for everyone."
Europe is expected to hold the largest market share, followed by North America and Asia Pacific. This is due to rising disposable incomes, increasing demand for self-expression, and growing awareness of sustainable and ethical fashion practices in these regions.
Denim Global Market: Share and Growth

(Source: Mordor Intelligence)

Tailoring to individuality
Customization isn't just about vanity. It empowers individuals to express as unique denim becomes a form of self-discovery and personal branding. It also combats fast fashion by investing in a well-made, customized piece, consumers move away from disposable trends. And promotes sustainability as repairing and customizing existing denim extends its lifespan thereby, reducing waste. As Ahmad says, "Customization is about giving people the power to create something that truly represents them. It's about moving away from mass-produced fashion and towards a more mindful, sustainable approach."
As customization catches on brands a taking the lead offering customized products. For example, Levi's Future Finish, is their online platform that uses laser technology to create custom washes and distressing on classic Levi's styles. “The denim industry has historically been mass-produced, but customization allows us to cater to individual needs and preferences,’’ explains Michael Khermiz, Chief Product Officer at Levi Strauss & Co. Similarly, Nudie Jeans Co offers extensive customization options through their "Bespoke Atelier," allowing customers to design every detail of their jeans. Unspun, the direct-to-consumer brand utilizes 3D body scanning technology to create perfectly fitted, made-to-order denim.
Customization goes beyond traditional tailoring. Today, brands offer a spectrum of options. From laser-scanning technology for perfect fits to adjustable waistbands, the focus is on comfort and inclusivity. In washes and distressing customers can choose unique washes, rips, and distressing to create their signature look. Embroidery, patches, and other details allow for self-expression and personalization. Then eco-friendly denim and ethical production methods cater to the growing conscious consumer.
Customization is here stay
Indeed, the denim customization trend is here to stay. As technology advances and consumer preferences evolve, one can expect increased use of AR/VR for virtual try-on experiences; more collaborative customization options, involving designers and influencers; focus on sustainable materials and ethical production practices.