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Retail 14/04/25

House of Rare launches debut store for Rare’Z by Rare Rabbit in Indore

A significant step in the brand’s national retail expansion strategy, the House of Rare has launched the debut store for its brand Rare’Z by Rare Rabbit in Indore

Located in the Phoenix Citadel Mall, the store spans 830 sq ft and caters to the increasing demand for premium men’s footwear and fashion in the area. With this launch, the brand aims to expand its presence in emerging urban markets throughout India. The company aims to deliver a more customized and experiential shopping model, specifically designed to meet the needs of today’s Indian consumers.

Pulkit Verma, Chief Business Officer – Digital, The House of Rare, shares, the launch of this store is a pivotal moment in the brand’s mission to offer Indian men a more personalized and experiential approach to footwear shopping. Through this store, the brand aims to connect with Indore’s fashion-conscious audience by blending convenience with premium craftsmanship and design.

The store showcases collections like the Inferno metallic series, the monotone suede Ragno range, and the varsity-inspired sporty line. It also features a carefully chosen assortment of streetwear apparel, aligning with the brand’s efforts to provide a comprehensive fashion experience.

The opening of this store at Phoenix Citadel Mall highlights The House of Rare’s strategic intent to expand beyond major metropolitan cities and cultivate stronger connections with regional consumers. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, this move demonstrates a focused investment in high-traffic locations with growing demand for curated fashion offerings.

Retail 14/04/25

House of Rare launches debut store for Rare’Z by Rare Rabbit in Indore

Libas launches 4,000 sq ft store in Hyderabad

Marking a significant step in its South India expansion, 0Indian fast-fashion leader Libas has launched its latest flagship store in Sarath City Capital Mall, Hyderabad. This expansive 4,000-sq-ft store showcases Libas’s diverse collection, offering a premium shopping experience for modern Indian women.

Emphasizing on Hyderabad's importance in the brand’s Southern India strategy, Sidhant Keshwani, Founder & CEO, Libas notes, this is their first store in the city with plans for further expansion. He credited the brand's success to its ‘fast fashion’ USP, emphasizing their ability to quickly bring the latest trends to their stores, rather than focusing on niche markets.

Libas has also seen strong performance in the e-commerce sector. The post-Diwali dip was followed by a significant rebound in March, avers Keshwani. The brand aims to increase its current 25-26 stores to over 80-100 by the end of the fiscal year, with revenue growth targeted at Rs 6.5 to 7 billion.

To fuel this expansion, Libas secured its first round of funding last year. Hyderabad is a key focus, with plans to add 5-6 more stores in the city within the next year. The brand operates with a pan-India supplier network, in-house design in Delhi, and outsourced manufacturing.

Founded by Keshwani and his father, Libas has evolved from Keshwani’s e-commerce aspirations and the family’s clothing export business. As a new-age brand, Libas heavily relies on digital marketing strategies, including influencer and moment marketing, and community building, shunning traditional methods like billboards and TV.

Expressing strong confidence in the continued growth of e-commerce, Keshwani states, Libas intends to capitalize on this trend as part of its ambitious expansion strategy.

Retail 12/04/25

Libas launches 4,000 sq ft store in Hyderabad

FitFlop opens third India EBO in Mumbai

Ergonomically designed footwear brand FitFlop has opened its third EBO in India in partnership with Metro Brands. Located in the Sky City Mall in Borivali, Mumbai, this new store follows the launch of the brand’s second store in the country at Lulu Mall, Kochi.

Spanning 524 sq ft, the store aims to serve the growing local community by providing a space focused on customer comfort, accessibility, and service. David Schuttenkopf, Chief Commercial Officer, FitFlop, says, with 12 freestanding concept stores now operating across the country and four more planned for this year, the momentum is truly exciting. The brand’s shared vision with

Metro Brands continues to bring it closer to consumers across India, he adds.

Both of FitFlop's stores in Mumbai and Kochi offer the brand’s complete product line for both men and women. The UK-based brand is known for blending biomechanical engineering with stylish footwear designs.

The brand’s Mumbai store brings its latest global design concept to life and introduces an all-new collection that’s high on style and powered by comfort-engineered products, notes Nissan Joseph, CEO, Metro Brands.

Retail 10/04/25

Sweet Dreams opens 50th EBO in India

An Indian brand specializing in loungewear and comfort apparel, Sweet Dreams has reached a milestone by opening its 50^thEBO, demonstrating a strong commitment to its physical store strategy.

Established in 1989, Sweet Dreams offers a wide range of products including athleisure, sleepwear, innerwear, and kidswear.

Hitesh Ruparelia, Chairman and Managing Director, highlights, the EBO model is a key driver in the brand's push towards higher-end products and increased profitability. Currently, about 11 per cent of the company’ sales come from its own stores, and the firm aims to expand this number, explains Ruparel, According to him, these stores provide much better profit margins—significantly exceeding the company's average of 28 to 30 per cent—because it eliminates reliance on intermediaries and has greater control over pricing and promotions."

Sweet Dreams has adopted a consistent, non-discounted pricing strategy across all its stores, which Ruparelia believes has helped reduce overall discounting. Today, consumers are willing to invest an extra Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 for superior quality and comfort. While traditional retailers might still focus on discounts, modern shoppers prioritize value, he notes.

Online sales account for 15 per cent of the company’s business, with their website generating approximately Rs 5 million in revenue each month.

Following a successful public offering last year, where they raised 649.8 million rupees, Sweet Dreams is financially stable and profitable. According to Ruparelia, they don't currently require additional external funding to support their store expansion plans.

Retail 6/04/25

Retail real estate rebounds as India’s leasing activity accelerates: Report

In a clear reflection of India’s buoyant consumer sentiment and economic resilience, the retail real estate market witnessed robust leasing activity across major cities during the January-March 2025 period. The new Cushman & Wakefield report outlines a steady revival in physical retail due to store expansions, evolving consumer behaviors, and a renewed confidence among global and domestic brands.

This resurgence, noted across metros and Tier-II cities alike, signals a shift toward more immersive and diverse retail formats — reaffirming brick-and-mortar’s relevance in an increasingly digital shopping landscape.

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Steady stride into 2025

As per Cushman & Wakefield, retail leasing across India maintained an upward growth from January to March 2025. Retailers, particularly in the fashion, food & beverage, and entertainment sectors, showed increased appetite for quality retail spaces in both high streets and organized mall formats.

Experts attribute this growth to three primary factors: India’s expanding middle class, rising disposable incomes, and a strong desire for offline experiences post-pandemic.

With the retail industry estimated to surpass $1.5 trillion by 2030, the physical footprint remains crucial for brands aiming to build trust and engagement in the Indian market.

As per the report, main streets dominated leasing, accounting for two-thirds of the total leasing volume (1.69 million sq ft). Mall leasing accounted for 0.72 million sq ft. Mumbai had the highest mall lease share. What’s more, domestic brands drove over 92 per cent of leasing activity.

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Metro markets lead the way

Mumbai: India’s financial capital continued to dominate leasing activity, buoyed by the return of international brands and luxury players. Mumbai accounted for 24 per cent of total leasing volume (0.58 million sq ft), with a 259 per cent YoY growth. High street corridors such as Linking Road and Colaba witnessed increased absorption, while new-age malls in suburban districts attracted premium tenants across lifestyle and wellness categories.

Delhi-NCR: Retail spaces in key areas like South Delhi and Gurgaon saw robust interest, with malls nearing full occupancy and several premium high-street locations experiencing rent escalations. Delhi NCR contributed 17 per cent of total leasing share (0.41 million sq ft), with a 57 per cent YoY increase.

A notable trend was the rise in food and beverage leasing, with gourmet brands and café chains targeting affluent pockets.

Bengaluru: With its cosmopolitan mix and tech-driven populace, Bengaluru remained a hotspot for experiential retail. The city saw strong demand from global fashion brands, electronics retailers, and digital-native brands (DNBs) establishing flagship stores in destinations such as Indiranagar and Whitefield.

Kolkata: As per Cushman & Wakefield's findings, Kolkata recorded leasing volumes of approximately 57,000 sq. ft. during this period — up 6 per cent quarter-on-quarter. Fashion brands were the primary drivers of demand, with nearly 96% of the leasing activity concentrated on main streets.

The city’s growth in organized retail was further aided by new mall supply and growing appetite among luxury and premium brands.

Hyderabad & Chennai: These emerging retail markets saw increased traction from homegrown and regional brands. In fact, Hyderabad led the way with 34 per cent of total leasing volume (0.8 million sq ft), experiencing 106 per cent YoY growth.

Malls in prime areas like Banjara Hills in Hyderabad and T Nagar in Chennai reported healthy footfalls and renewed leasing activity, especially in the mid-premium fashion and wellness segments.

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What’s driving the momentum?

Most important growth driver is omnichannel strategy taking center stage. Retailers are no longer treating online and offline as separate silos. The omnichannel approach — where offline stores serve as both sales points and experience centers — is now the norm. Brands like Nykaa, Pepperfry, and JioMart continue expanding offline, bridging digital discovery with tactile experiences.

Growing experiential retail is another factor. With customer expectations shifting from transactional to experiential, brands are investing in immersive store formats. Think AR-enabled trial rooms, community cafés inside bookstores, and hybrid gaming-retail lounges. This trend is particularly visible in metros where Gen Z and Millennials form a significant chunk of consumers.

The rise of flexible leasing models is also contributing to this growth. Landlords are adapting to new market realities by offering shorter lease tenures, revenue-sharing agreements, and fit-out assistance. Such flexibility has helped small businesses and new entrants explore physical retail with reduced risk.

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Despite its growth, the sector isn’t without headwinds. Global supply chain constraints have impacted inventory availability for many international retailers. Furthermore, competition from quick commerce and online marketplaces continues to exert pressure on traditional formats.

In addition, fluctuating construction costs and regulatory delays in mall approvals pose challenges for developers looking to add new supply.

Moving ahead, retail leasing activity is expected to remain strong through 2025, especially with new mall supply scheduled in cities like Pune, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad.

The introduction of mixed-use developments that combine retail, hospitality, and entertainment will also play a vital role in enhancing customer experiences.

The bottom line is as Indian consumers evolve, so too must the spaces that serve them. The integration of sustainability practices, smart infrastructure, and adaptive leasing models will define the next phase of growth in the retail real estate sector.

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Retail 11/04/25

Forever New captures the season’s spirit with Spring/Summer 2025 collection featuring Triptii Dimri

Women's fashion brand Forever New has launched its Spring/Summer 2025 collection, titled ‘The Summer Odyssey,’ with a campaign featuring its global brand ambassador, Triptii Dimri.

Showcasing lightweight materials, stylish matching sets (co-ords), flowing maxi dresses, and waistcoats, the collection captures the spirit of the season with its breezy silhouettes, vibrant colors, and dreamy patterns.

Dhruv Bogra, Country Director, Forever New India, states, the collection reflects Forever New's leadership in fashion and style within the women’s apparel market. With the launch of this collection, the brand continues to meet consumer demand for fresh and innovative designs by creating high-quality pieces that enhance the modern woman's wardrobe.”

Dimri adds, this collection feels like an extension of my own wardrobe—feminine, graceful, and effortlessly chic. Priced between Rs 4,500-Rs 12, 000, the Summer Odyssey collection is now available on the Forever New website and in their retail stores across India.

Retail 9/04/25

Forever New captures the season’s spirit with Spring/Summer 2025 collection featuring Triptii Dimri

India's luxury market at crossroads with the rise of Masstige

India's luxury market, once dominated by traditional high-end brands, is changing over time. With a growing middle class, increased global exposure, and evolving consumer preferences, the category is expected to clock in unprecedented growth.

However, the critical question remains: which segment holds the key to India's luxury future – traditional luxury or the rapidly expanding realm of affordable luxury?

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The rise and rise of premiumization

As per Deloitte reports the luxury market in India is projected for 20 per cent annual growth rate, with the market expected to reach $200 billion by 2030. This rise is due to a boost in premiumization, as consumers increasingly seek quality and brand recognition, and a growing middle class wielding greater spending power.

The choice between luxury vs. affordable luxury

Traditional luxury: This segment caters to the elite, the high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), who value exclusivity, superior craftsmanship, and status symbols. Brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel exemplify this approach, focusing on heritage and rarity. The positioning is built upon brand legacy, and the pricing is premium, reflecting the exclusivity.

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Affordable luxury (Masstige): Bridging the gap between mass-market products and high-end luxury, this segment offers premium quality at more accessible price points. It targets the aspirational middle class and young professionals, who seek prestige without the exorbitant price tag. This segment is driven by a desire for quality and brand recognition, with a focus on delivering value.

While both segments present opportunities, affordable luxury appears to hold the greater potential for growth in India. The growing middle class, projected to significantly increase in size by 2030, with a substantial rise in households with annual incomes between $8,500 and $40,000, is the primary driver. This demographic shift indicates a vast consumer base eager for premium products at accessible prices.

In fact, the rise of affordable luxury is reshaping India's fashion and lifestyle landscape. Brands are increasingly adopting premiumization strategies, introducing high-quality products that cater to aspirational consumers. This trend is evident in Hindustan Unilever's shift, where two-thirds of new product launches in the past two years have been in the premium segment. This shows a clear movement towards the masstige market.

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Masstige growth drivers

Rising affluence is one of the biggest catalyst for growth. The addition of over 7,000 new millionaires annually gives rise to demand for luxury goods, broadening the consumer base for both luxury and affordable luxury segments. Increased international travel and digital connectivity have also increased awareness and desire for global luxury brands, creating a more informed and aspirational consumer base. Add to it are the online platforms that have democratized access to luxury products, reaching consumers beyond metropolitan areas and expanding the market's reach.

In fact, now the Tier II and III cities present untapped potential, with consumers increasingly seeking luxury products without relocating to major metros. And the growing pre-owned luxury market offers avenues for brands to engage with cost-conscious yet aspirational buyers.

However, the sector does face regulatory hurdles, such as strict regulations requiring local partnerships, can deter foreign luxury brands from entering the Indian market. And India's vast cultural and regional diversity necessitates tailored marketing strategies, complicating brand positioning and requiring deep market understanding.

Thus India's luxury market is at a crucial juncture, with affordable luxury expected to lead growth in coming years. Brands that position themselves to cater to the aspirational middle class, while navigating regulatory and cultural complexities, stand to gain a significant foothold in this dynamic landscape. The ability to adapt to the Indian market, while still maintaining brand integrity, is the key to success.

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Retail 4/04/25

V-Mart EBITDA rises to 13.5% in 9MFY25

In the first nine months of fiscal 2025 (9MFY25), V-Mart’s brand Unlimited's EBITDA margin doubled to 14.4 per cent, while the losses of the company’s other brand, Limeroad's continued to decline, leading to the group’s overall EBITDA margin rising from 11.1 per cent to 13.5 per cent.

This positive trend continued into Q4, with annual revenue rising by 17 per cent Y-o-Y to Rs 32.54 billion. This growth was spearheaded by V-Mart and Unlimited, both achieving 18 per cent growth, driven by an 11 per cent same-store sales growth (SSSG) and a 12 per cent expansion in store numbers.

V-Mart's 2021 acquisition of Unlimited from Arvind Fashions aimed to expand its South Indian presence, acquiring 74 stores and related assets for Rs 1.5 billion. While making V-Mart a national player, it presented integration challenges. Unlimited, with a higher concentration of Tier-I stores compared to V-Mart, underwent rebranding and operational changes aligning with V-Mart's strategy. Some Unlimited stores were closed and replaced with higher-performing ones in smaller cities. Unlimited's average selling price (ASP) was reduced from over Rs 500 to Rs 430, still higher than V-Mart's Rs 340, but more comparable within apparel.

Despite limited net store additions and stagnant store space, Unlimited's focus on profitable growth yielded a 10 per cent SSSG in Q4 FY25, surpassing V-Mart's 7 per cent. Unlimited's sales per square foot grew by 12 per cent, matching the overall 13 per cent growth, positioning it as a future growth driver for V-Mart.

V-Mart's FY23 acquisition of Limeroad for its digital ambitions initially faced headwinds due to consistent EBITDA losses. However, management efforts to halve advertising expenses and integrate V-Mart sales through Limeroad have shown results. Limeroad's EBITDA loss decreased by half in Q3 FY25.

V-Mart, a value retailer with nearly 500 stores across 4 million sq ft., faced pandemic-related challenges and increased competition. Acquisitions and store expansions led to a significant increase in debt. However, the company has shifted focus to profitable growth, closing underperforming stores, improving efficiency, offering discounts, and expanding categories.

Reduced inventory holding periods and a recovery in rural demand are also contributing to improved performance. Store count and space grew by 7 per cent in the past year, with plans for 60-65 new stores in FY26. Foot traffic increased significantly, and SSSG remained strong at 10 per cent, led by growth in Tier-IV cities.

Retail 10/04/25

Engyne forays into menswear retail with Spring-Summer 2025 collection

To offer international design styles at affordable prices, premium men's clothing brand, Engyne is foraying into India's growing menswear retail market. The Bengaluru-based brand is launching its Spring-Summer 2025 collection exclusively online through a direct-to-consumer (D2C) approach.

The brand will sell its products through its official website, with plans to launch mobile apps for Android and iOS shortly after. The initial product range features essential wardrobe items made from Supima cotton and blended yarns, using fabric textures such as mis-jersey, micro-pique, interlock, jacquard, and French terry. Each piece is designed with careful attention to finishing, durability, and practicality, incorporating advanced printing techniques and embroidery.

Founded by Gnanaprakash, Karthikeyan K., Karthikeyan P, Ramesh Kumar, and Dinesh D.—industry experts with previous experience at global brands like Diesel and Guess — Engyne intends to fill a gap in India’s fashion scene where high-quality menswear isn't always widely accessible.

Karthikeyan K, Director, Engyne, states, more than just fashion; the brand aims to change people’s expectations of premium quality. The company’s team has implemented a vertically integrated manufacturing model to manage both quality and costs internally. Dinesh D, Director, explains, having its own vertically integrated manufacturing facility enables the brand to manage every stage of produc

tion – from selection to final stitching. This enables it provide high-end craftsmanship at a much lower price, he adds.

With its business model focused on quality control and affordability, the brand aims to set itself apart from fast fashion by offering products that are durable and wear-tested. The brand plans to expand its product line to include shirts, chinos, jackets, and denim in the next season. It is also exploring opportunities for international distribution, with a focus on showcasing Indian-made products that meet global standards.

Retail 8/04/25

Engyne forays into menswear retail with Spring-Summer 2025 collection

Jain Amar promotes Akhil Jain as new MD & CEO of Jain Amar

At the recent Jain Amar Leadership Summit 2025, renowned Indian fashion conglomerate, Jain Amar Clothing announced the promotion of Akhil Jain, Executive Director and a member of the promoter family with over 20 years of experience, as the company’s new Managing Director and CEO.

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A NIFT alumnus, Jain has pursued executive education at Harvard and IIM-A. As the company’s executive director, he focused on brand, technology, and retail strategy innovation.

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Parent company of brands like Madame, Camla Barcelona and mSECRET, Jain Amar Clothing aims to launch an IPO by 2027. The company aims to focus on growth, organizational alignment, governance, financial control, and leadership development.

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Jain Amar's next era will be defined by how well it aligns people, process, and purpose. The company is moving from isolated departments to a single unified movement, says Jain.

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Retail 4/04/25

Jain Amar promotes Akhil Jain as new MD & CEO of Jain Amar

The Arvind Store to offer complimentary tailoring services across India

A complete lifestyle fashion destination, The Arvind Store has launched a new initiative titled, ‘Made for You, Stitched for Free,’ to offer complimentary tailoring services across India.

EnsurING a seamless, personalized shopping experience, this initiative eliminates tailoring hassles while delivering a perfect fit.

The Arvind Store provides top-notch custom tailoring, ensuring impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail. Available exclusively at The Arvind Store locations, free suit and sherwani tailoring makes premium tailoring more accessible than ever

Pranav Dave, Chief Business Officer – Knits & Retail, Arvind Ltd, says, the ‘Made for You, Stitched for Free’ initiative is designed to make custom tailoring more accessible while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.

Custom tailoring is increasingly seen as an extension of one’s personality and a way to celebrate personal achievements, making The Arvind Store’s latest free suit and sherwani tailoring offer a timely and relevant offering.

Alongside this campaign, The Arvind Store also launched a new linen collection featuring over 300 styles, including wrinkle-resistant and performance fabrics. The Store also offers the rband’s latest Primante and Ethnic collections, designed for refined craftsmanship and luxury.

Featuring natural fabrics that are soft, lightweight, and breathable, the Ethnic Collection offers exceptional comfort. Meanwhile, the Primante Collection showcases premium fabrics like Egyptian Giza Cotton, Superfine European Linens, and Australian Merino Wool. Crafted in

Arvind’s Italian Studio, this collection is ideal for both formal and business wardrobes.

With a focus on quality and innovation, The Arvind Store continues to redefine fashion retail.

Retail 10/04/25

The Arvind Store to offer complimentary tailoring services across India

Guess launches first dedicated e-commerce platform in India

Marking a significant step in the brand's digital expansion, Guess officially launched its first dedicated e-commerce platform in India, guess.in, on February 14, 2025.

Through this move, the company aims to provide Indian consumers with direct access to the brand's wide range of products.

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The new online platform offers a comprehensive selection of Guess merchandise, including men's and women's apparel, accessories, handbags, children’s wear, and luggage.

Guess India plans to further enhance the online shopping experience by adding its signature fragrances, premium watches, designer eyewear, and footwear to the platform.

Acting as a digital flagship store, guess.in replicates the in-store Guess experience online.

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It complements the brand's existing network of 21 physical stores across India, providing customers with convenient access via smartphones and laptops. The website features user-friendly navigation, multiple payment options, and dedicated customer support available during weekdays.

A 30-day return policy and a robust delivery network ensure a seamless and hassle-free shopping experience for customers nationwide.

Known for its iconic style, Guess is bridging the gap between its traditional retail presence and the digital world.

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The new platform aims to create a personalized shopping experience for both loyal customers and new shoppers.

The guess.in experience is designed with attention to detail, including gift wrapping options and recyclable packaging. Guess also emphasizes sustainability by offering eco-friendly products made from organic cotton, recycled materials, and sustainable fabrics.

This launch represents the beginning of Guess’s digital journey in India, as the brand seeks to redefine the customer experience through online accessibility and convenience.

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Retail 7/04/25

Nykaa Fashion strengthens brand portfolio with the addition of Victoria’s Secret to the platform

Omnichannel fashion retailer, Nykaa Fashion has added global lingerie brand Victoria’s Secret to strengthen its brand portfolio on the platform.

The partnership will result in Victoria’s Secret lingerie, sleepwear and athleisure range being made available to Indian consumers through Nykaa’s website, mobile app and stores across India.

The e-commerce retailer will offer bras, panties, lace sets, silky robes, pyjama sets, leggings, sports bras, tank tops, and sweatshirts from the brand on its platform. .

More than just introducing a globally renowned brand in India, this collaboration helps Nykaa Fashion reshape its consumers’ fashion experiences, says Adwaita Nayar, CEO of Nykaa Fashion.

Abhishek Bajpai, CEO, Apparel Group India adds, through this partnership, the group aims to connect with a broader audience and serve the fashion-forward generation, all while staying committed to its core principles of quality, style, and innovation

A retailer of intimate wear in India through the UAE-based fashion and lifestyle conglomerate Apparel Group, Victoria’s Secret has launched a number of EBOs across the country’s metros and also operates its own e-commerce store.

Retail 2/04/25