The future of fashion belongs to disruptors, says Arvind’s Kulin Lalbhai
Disruption is no longer a choice but a necessity in the fashion industry, said Kulin Lalbhai, Vice Chairman, Arvind, in a keynote address at The Economic Times Great India Retail Summit 2025 in Mumbai. “The future belongs to those who disrupt themselves before being disrupted,” he asserted, urging brands to rethink their strategies in an era dominated by digital innovation, rapid inventory shifts, and sustainability concerns.
With a legacy spanning 120 years, Arvind has been at the forefront of India’s fashion evolution—introducing denim to the country and building iconic brands like Arrow, Flying Machine, U.S. Polo, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein. Lalbhai emphasized continuous reinvention is the key to survival. “Retail has always centered around the store, but today, the real battleground is the smartphone,” he pointed out, a paradigm shift towards digital-first consumer engagement.
India’s evolving fashion market
India’s fashion industry, valued at $100 billion and growing at 10 per cent annually, faces a paradox. While brands grapple with sluggish consumption trends, consumer demand remains strong for those who can innovate. Citing an example, Lalbhai noted, “While we discuss sluggish consumption, the same market saw Mahindra sell Rs 9,000 crore worth of EVs in a single day. There is demand, but brands must evolve to tap into it.”
To thrive in this rapidly shifting landscape, Lalbhai outlined three key transformations that fashion brands must embrace:
Become smarter: AI-driven decision-making, is replacing traditional manual planning across design, sourcing, merchandising, and marketing. “Data-backed insights will soon dictate every aspect of fashion retail,” he said.
Become faster: The era of seasonal collections is fading, making way for real-time inventory turns and instant trend adaptation. Brands must be agile and responsive to ever-changing consumer demands.
Become greener: Sustainability is no longer a mere value-add; it is a fundamental expectation from consumers. “Eco-friendly processes and responsible sourcing are now critical to long-term brand loyalty,” Lalbhai stressed.
The retail revolution, a call to action
Lalbhai’s vision for ‘Fashion 4.0’ goes beyond adaptation—it’s about leading the charge in retail disruption. “Retail’s next phase isn’t about keeping up—it’s about leading the disruption,” he concluded, challenging industry leaders to take bold steps toward digital transformation, operational efficiency, and sustainable fashion practices.
As brands navigate the complexities of modern retail, Lalbhai’s insights serve as a reminder that the future will favor those who proactively embrace change rather than react to it.
