Offering western style formal wear to the city’s shoppers, US-based menswear brand Brooks Brothers has opened an exclusive brand outlet in the Palladium Mall, Ahmedabad.

Launched with the brand’s summer collection, the store offers garments such as button down, short sleeve shirts, logo polo shirts and jeans. It also offers more options for wedding, occasion and office wear in the form of suits and ties.

Established by Henry Brooks in 1818 in the US, Brooks Brothers introduced its ready to wear fashion in 1849. Known for its Golden Fleece logo, the brand has dressed numerous American presidents till date. It joins a range of international and Indian labels at the mall ranging from Tumi, Kate Space, Emporio Armani and Hidesign to Pantaloons, Aldo, Ritu Kumar, Satya Paul and Coach, etc.

A development by the Phoenix Mills, Palladium Mall Ahmedabad celebrated its one year anniversary this January. Phoenix Mills runs an array of malls across India including in Pune, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Indore among others, according to its website.

Artisanal lifestyle brand of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail (ABFRL), Jaypore launched its 26th Indian store at Banjara Hills in Hyderabad. This is Jaypore’s third store in the city.

The store offers handcrafted apparel for both men and women, along with home decor, jewelry and home textiles based on craft forms from all over India. Established in 2012 by Puneet Chawla and Shilpa Sharma, Jaypore initially operated solely as an online platform. The company entered offline retailing in 2018 with the opening of its first store in New Delhi, and the following year, it was acquired by Aditya Birla Group.

Recently, ABFRL launched the brand Jaypore in the US market in partnership with Ingenuity, a commerce solution provider. The partnership will enable ABFRL to expand its direct-to-consumer (D2C) presence globally by leveraging the technology and marketing expertise of Ingenuity.

The retail arm of Aditya Birla Group, ABFRL operates international fashion and lifestyle brands such as Ralph Lauren, Hackett London, Simon Carter, Ted Baker, Fred Perry, Forever 21, American Eagle, and Galeries Lafayette.

The company operates over 3,977 stores across approximately 33,535 multi-brand outlets with 6,723 points of sales in department stores across India as of March 2023.

Raymond, a household name in India synonymous with sharp suiting, is embarking on an ambitious journey to become a global leader in the textiles and apparel industry.

Raymond's story is one of consistent growth. Founded in 1925, the company established itself as a leader in the Indian market by focusing on vertical integration – controlling the entire production process from raw materials to finished garments. This strategy ensured consistent quality, a hallmark of the Raymond brand. A recent case study by Trendvisionz highlights their success in vertical integration, controlling the entire production process from yarn to finished garments. This strategy ensures consistent quality and allows them to offer competitive pricing. However, the textile industry is a dynamic one, facing challenges like increasing competition and evolving consumer preferences.

Charting the course for growth

Product diversification: Raymond is expanding beyond traditional suiting fabrics, offering a wider range of apparel and lifestyle products catering to a younger generation.

Focus on innovation: Recognizing the rise of sustainable and performance fabrics, Raymond is investing heavily in research and development. This focus on innovation ensures the company stays ahead of the curve in a competitive global market

Omnichannel presence: Recognizing the shift towards online shopping, Raymond is strengthening its digital presence. Their e-commerce platform offers a seamless buying experience, while their brick-and-mortar stores are being revamped for a more experiential feel.

Global expansion: Raymond is actively looking to increase its international footprint. A recent report highlights their focus on capitalizing on export orders. They already have production facilities in Europe and are exploring new markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

However, the textile and apparel industry faces several challenges, including intense competition, fluctuating cotton prices, and the ever-changing fashion landscape. A recent IBEF report highlights the intense competition from established players in countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam. To address this, Raymond is focusing on cost optimization through efficient manufacturing practices and building strong brand differentiation through superior quality and design. Raymond has streamlined its operations and adopted efficient manufacturing practices to maintain profitability. They have consistently invested in brand marketing, solidifying their position as a premium menswear brand and attracting new customer segments. For example, their ‘Weddings by Raymond’ campaign successfully targeted the growing wedding wear market, showcasing their ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Emerging stronger

Raymond's recent financial performance reflects its resilience. The company reported a ninth consecutive quarter of record performance in Q2FY24, with a healthy EBITDA margin. This growth signifies the effectiveness of its strategic initiatives.

Indeed Raymond's move towards global leadership will not be without its challenges. Competition is fierce, and consumer preferences are constantly evolving. However, with their rich heritage, strategic planning, and focus on innovation, Raymond is well-positioned to navigate these complexities. By diversifying its product portfolio, strengthening its omnichannel presence, and expanding its global footprint, Raymond is poised to become a textile and apparel leader not just in India, but on the world stage.

US-based athleisure brand Nike has boosted its store count by opening a new store in the Pacific Mall, New Delhi.

Situated in the Tagore Garden property, the mall store offers atleisure, running, jogging, training and lifestyle products, shares Ashish Gupta, Vice President-Business Development, Pacific Development Corporation.

Founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports by Bill Bowerman and his former student Phil Knight, Nike opened its first retail outlet in 1966. In 1972, the brand launched its own range of shoes. The company was renamed as Nike, Inc in 1978 and currently offers products like shoes, clothing, accessories and equipment for men, women and kids under categories like shoes, clothing, accessories and equipment.

The retailer is an owner of brands like Nike sportswear, Nike Lab, Nike by You, Jordan, ACG NBA, and Nike SB.

Foraying into India in 1995 through a licensing deal with Delhi-based Sierra Industrial Enterprises, Nike set up its subsidiary, Nike India in 2004.

Lingerie, sleepwear and athleisure brand from the house of Nykaa, Nykd by Nykaa, plans to launch a limited-edited collection in partnership with designer label Jodi Life.

The Jodi Life X Nykd by Nykaa collection includes co-ord sets, breezy dresses, tees, shorts, pants, etc. It will enable the brand Jodi Life to broaden its customer base and boost sales.

The collaboration blends the summer-friendly prints and styles of Jodi with the effortless fashion sensibility of Nykd by Nykaa. It makes designer wear more accessible by pricing the collection more innovatively, says Preeti Gupta, Business Head-Nykd by Nykaa.

Gauri Verma, Founder, Jodi Life adds, having developed its signature prints, the brand focuses on handcrafted processes like block printing and screen printing in this collection.

Priced between Rs 899 ($10) to Rs 2,999, The Jodi Life x Nykd by Nykaa will be available online exclusively at Nykaa Fashion.

As against Rs 7 crore net profit recorded in the previous financial year, Indian Terrain Fashions experienced a net loss of Rs 15 crore ($1.8 million) in the financial year ending March 2024.

The company registered a 9 per cent drop in revenues to Rs 456 crore from Rs 501 crore in the year ending March 2023.

However, the company reported a modest growth of Rs 0.03 crore in net profit in Q4, FY24 while revenues surged to Rs 114 crore.

Charath Narsimhan, Managing Director and CEO, Indian Terrain, states, the brand faced slight headwinds as it continued to navigate through a challenging external environment marked by sluggish consumer spending. This led to a drop in sales from exclusive brand outlets (EBO) and large format outlets (LFO) counters. Additionally, the discontinuation of brand’s boys' segment impacted overall revenue and profitability.

Despite these challenges, the company's Menswear segment continued to perform well. The company was also able to maintain its profitability under tough market conditions due to its strategic focus on enhancing revenue quality through controlled discounts and healthier margins. A prominent menswear fashion brand, Indian Terrain retails across India through its 236 exclusive outlets, multi-brand outlets, large format stores, and leading e-commerce platforms.

The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) is thrilled to announce the second North India Garment Fair (NIGF 2024), set for 11th to 13th June 2024 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Center (IICC), Dwarka, New Delhi.

NIGF 2024 promises an impressive lineup, featuring over 200 exhibitors showcasing Menswear, Womenswear, and Kidswear. The event is expected to attract 5000 trade visitors, providing vast networking opportunities, and 700 Platinum Buyers, ensuring top-tier industry presence.

Rajesh Masand, President of CMAI, emphasized the significance of NIGF 2024, stating that it demonstrates CMAI’s commitment to supporting MSMEs and enhancing the garment trade in North India. He highlighted the event's crucial role in driving the growth of the domestic apparel industry, which is fueled by India's dynamic demographic and economic potential.

Santosh Katariya, Chairman of the NIGF Committee, noted the fair's timing with the festival season, crucial for the apparel industry. He anticipates high demand for traditional and modern attire, with NIGF 2024 connecting manufacturers to key buyers, ensuring market readiness.

With over 95 per cent of exhibitors representing MSMEs from major hubs like Mumbai, Surat, Jaipur, and Bengaluru, NIGF 2024 is set to be a pivotal event for garment manufacturers and retailers nationwide, fostering connections and driving growth in the industry.

Innerwear products maker Lux Industries recorded a 88 per cent growth in net profit during Q4, FY24 as against Rs 19 crore in the year ago quarter.

However, the company’s revenue for the quarter declined marginally to Rs 704 crore from Rs 710 crore recorded in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal year.

Its net profit for the entire financial year declined by 8 per cent to Rs 126 crore from Rs 137 crore in the previous year. Revenues also plunged to Rs 2,385 crore from Rs 2,401 crore in the previous year.

Dominating the womenswear market, Lux Industries’ powerbrand Lyra reported a 11 per cent Y-o-Y growth in volume while the volume of the men’s innerwear brand Lux Cozi grew by 5 per cent Y-o-Y.

Besides exploring new territories with the launch of its rainwear category, Lux Industries also expanded its womenswear range by launching a new brand ‘Lux Venus Her’ during the financial year.

One of the largest players in the hosiery industries, Lux Industries operates brands like Genx, Lyra, and Onn, etc.

Net profit of Credo Brands Marketing, owner of the fashion brand Mufti, declined by 67 per cent to Rs 7 crore ($8,41,627) during the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2024 as against Rs 22 crore in the year ago period.

The company’s revenue for the quarter remained flat at Rs 133 crore, as against Rs 132 crore in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

For the full FY24, Credo Brands Marketing’s net profit increased to Rs 59 crore with revenues rising to Rs 567 crore.

Kamal Khushlani, Chairman and Managing Director, Credo Brands Marketing, says, the stability in the company’s gross profit margins despite the challenges faced in the current market scenario indicates its appeal and resilience in challenging market conditions.

Looking ahead, in FY25, Credo Brands Marketing aims to achieve mid-teens revenue growth supported by new store openings in new and existing geographies, and subject to recovery in overall industry demand for premium and mid-premium brands. The company also aims to improve profitability by implementing various cost efficiency measures, Khushlani adds.

During the financial year 2024, the company added 52 exclusive brand outlets to take its count to 425 across 237 cities in India.

Q-commerce or quick commerce is experiencing a meteoric rise in India, growing 4-5 times faster than established e-commerce channels, as pointed out by Varun Alagh, CEO Mamaearth. And as Alagh says, last year, it was not even in the top 10 in terms of contribution to sales. Today, it has entered the top five in online domain and is growing the fastest. This rapid growth has propelled it into the top five contributors to online sales for major D2C brands.

Strengths of Q-commerce

Speed is the defining factor for Q-commerce. Ultra-fast deliveries within minutes and thereby fulfilling the need for instant gratification, is its USP. What works for it is the convenience factor as it eliminates the need for physical store visits and is ideal for busy lifestyles and last-minute purchases. While profitability in e-commerce is a challenge, Q-commerce seems to be showing promise, potentially due to higher order frequency and targeted product selection.

However, while showing promise, profitability indeed remains a hurdle. Companies are exploring strategies like higher order values and product diversification to address this. Then there is the whole issue of logistics. Establishing a dense network of strategically located dark stores for efficient delivery within tight timeframes presents a challenge. Also, it currently caters more to essentials and smaller items. Fashion/apparel might face limitations due to size variations and the need for trial before purchase. And Q-commerce might encourage unplanned purchases, impacting budgets and potentially leading to higher return rates for fashion items.

Scope in fashion retail

Indeed in fashion retail there is a scope for growth, especially in categories like athleisure, accessories, and smaller apparel items. Brands can leverage Q-commerce for targeted campaigns, new product launches, and impulse buys. However, Ensuring proper fit and size options, managing returns efficiently, and building trust for fashion purchases within a quick-delivery model are crucial aspects to address.

Real-time inventory tracking across dark stores is critical to avoid stockouts and ensure prompt deliveries could be huge challenge. Then developing efficient delivery routes and logistics networks for faster fulfillment is essential. Building infrastructure and processes to handle the expected surge in demand is another big challenge.

Way forward

For success in fashion Q-commerce strategic partnerships is key. Collaboration between fashion brands and established Q-commerce platforms can leverage expertise and resources. Implementing AI-powered inventory management, delivery optimization tools, and data analytics will enhance efficiency. Building trust through quality control, clear return policies, and potentially incorporating virtual try-on options could be crucial for fashion in Q-commerce.

Indeed Q-commerce is revolutionizing the e-commerce landscape in India. While challenges exist, its focus on speed and convenience positions it for significant growth. By addressing these challenges and fostering collaboration, Q-commerce can become a major player in the fashion/apparel sector, offering a unique and convenient shopping experience for consumers.

As a part of its licensing agreement with Dream Theatre, Sanrio Company will launch the brand Hello Kitty in India with several product categories including clothing and accessories.

To accelerate its growth in India, Sanrio Company will partner with key retailers in the country in order to reach a broad range of age demographics. The company will accelerate its product launches during Diwali to tap into the festive gifting spirit.

This year, the company will focus on young adults, says Jiggy George, CEO and Founder, Dream Theatre. It also plans to work with all top retailers including Reliance, Aditya Birla Group and Lifestyle. Collaborations with direct-to-consumer brands like the Souled Store, etc are also in the pipeline.

Besides launching Hello Kitty branded products in a wide range of Indian stores, the Sanrio Company also plans to leverage social media channels to boost brand awareness. It plans to launch a Hello Kitty YouTube channel in Hindi to forge connections with local shoppers with the Tamil and Telugu channels following in 2025. It will also launch an instagram account for the brand Hello Kitty in India.

Renowned designer Archana Kochhar showcased a women's traditional wear collection celebrating heritage weaves from across India at the Delhi Times Fashion Week. Held at Vasant Kunj in New Delhi, the runway show featured sarees and lehengas in bright and delicate hues.

Models graced the runway in vibrant shades of tangerine, plum, and magenta, adorned in full lehengas embellished with gold and glittering details. The collection also included a few menswear pieces in ivory, characterised by classic tailoring.

Paying homage to the timeless grace of Indian weaves and the various adaptations of these silhouettes, the collection features handwoven brocade weaves from Varanasi, handicraft mirror work embroidery from Kachchh, Gujarat, handloom Jamdani fabric from Bengal, and the traditional Bandhani tie-dye technique from Gujarat.

Sponsored by Prius Communications, with hair and makeup by Lakmé Salon, Delhi Times Fashion Week was an initiative of the Times of India Group. The event was held from May 29-31, 2024 at at The Grand New Delhi.

Celebrated for her traditional luxury occasion and bridal wear, designer Archana Kochhar is known for its heavy embellishments. Her eponymous brand is available through its direct-to-customer e-commerce store and is an official brand for the 71st Miss World Festival.