Retail brands grow with good real estate, says Nilesh Ved, Apparel Group
Prime real estate is the key to retail success, opines Nilesh Ved, Owner, Apparel Group and Chairman of AppCorp Holding. Speaking at The Economic Times Great India Retail Summit 2025, Ved said location is just as critical as product selection in the retail industry, particularly in India’s competitive market. The summit, held in Mumbai, provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of Indian retail.
“Retail success isn’t just about what you sell—it’s about where you sell,” Ved said, underscoring the importance of securing prime locations to drive growth. Apparel Group, which currently operates 2,300 stores across 14 countries, has been aggressively expanding in India. With 14 brands and nearly 290 stores already established in the country, Ved expressed confidence in scaling further. “If the right opportunities come along, we can add 500 more stores in India,” he revealed.
The retail giant is also set to make a strategic move into India’s grocery segment by bringing Carrefour to the country, marking a significant diversification. However, Ved highlighted the biggest challenge remains acquiring quality retail space, especially in India. “Good locations are hard to come by. In the Gulf, we take what we get and make it work, but in India, securing the right space is critical for growth.”
Consumer Behavior: India vs. Dubai
Ved also drew comparisons between Indian and Dubai retail markets, highlighting key differences in consumer behavior. While Dubai malls serve a mix of residents and international tourists, Indian consumers show more predictable shopping habits. “Consumer preferences vary by city, which helps us tailor offerings more effectively,” he noted. He cited Skechers’ performance as an example, stating that per-sq-foot sales are significantly higher in Dubai Mall than in India’s Time Square.
As consumer expectations evolve, Apparel Group is strengthening its omnichannel presence by integrating online, offline, and marketplace strategies. “Quick commerce has changed consumer expectations in India. While it’s great for essentials, it may not work for fashion. We plan to use it selectively for a limited range of SKUs,” Ved explained.
Apparel Group’s partnership with Nykaa in Dubai is another key strategic move. “We’ve opened two stores, and six more are in the pipeline, along with a dedicated app for the Gulf region. Beauty is a space we’re keen on, and Nykaa’s expertise makes this partnership ideal,” he said.
Data-driven customer engagement
Loyalty programs are no longer just about physical cards, Ved emphasized. Instead, data-driven insights are the future of customer retention. “Our app helps us track shopping patterns across our 12 million customers, allowing us to personalize experiences and drive repeat engagement.”
As Indian retail undergoes rapid transformation in an increasingly connected world, Ved reinforced the importance of securing prime retail spaces, embracing omnichannel strategies, and leveraging consumer data to stay ahead. “It’s not just about retail—it’s about knowing where the consumer is and how to be there first,” he concluded.
