Reliance Retail, Mothercare form JV to expand in South Asia

Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd (RRVL) is partnering with UK-based Mothercare plc to establish a joint venture aimed at expanding the Mothercare brand across South Asia. Under the agreement, Reliance Brands Holding UK Limited (RBL UK), a subsidiary of Reliance Brands Limited, will hold a 51 per cent stake, while Mothercare will retain 49 per cent.

The joint venture will oversee Mothercare’s operations in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, serving as the franchisor for the brand. RBL UK will acquire the stake for £16 million.

Reliance currently operates 87 Mothercare stores across India, having first acquired the brand’s Indian rights in 2018. This partnership will strengthen the brand’s presence across the region and offer new growth opportunities.

Reliance Brands Managing Director Darshan Mehta expressed enthusiasm for the venture, emphasizing Mothercare's trusted reputation among Indian parents. Clive Whiley, Chairman of Mothercare, praised the agreement for reinforcing the brand's operations and highlighting its market strength in South Asia.

The partnership aims to further integrate both companies' expertise in the region while capitalizing on Mothercare's established brand appeal.