Reliance made its entry in the retail sector in 2006 and it has over 18,774 stores throughout the country. Balenciaga, Armani, Hugo Boss, Versace, Michael Kors and others brands are available in India through Reliance Retail.
While Reliance Retail started in 2006, it overcompensated for its late entry by aggressively opening stores across formats. Reliance has over 18,774 stores across supermarkets, electronics, jewellery, and apparel space. It has also either partnered or acquired over 80 global brands, from Gap and Superdry to Balenciaga and Jimmy Choo. A diverse portfolio of brands across various segments through strategic partnerships and collaborations helps an entity like Reliance to leverage synergies and enhance retail presence, especially in malls, experts said.
The success of brands like Uniqlo, MUJI and K-beauty companies highlights the East Asian countries’ Indian diversification and the various opportunities it brings.
Global brands like Zara, H&M, Bugatti Fashion, La Vie en Rose, Adidas, Nike, West Elm, Starbucks, Uniqlo, and Marks & Spencer are growing rapidly in India. Small towns with brand-conscious buyers and rising disposable incomes are driving their expansion. International brands accounted for 25% of retail leasing in 2023, up from 14% the previous year. Canadian lingerie retailer La Vie en Rose debuted in India, while Rimowa, Bugatti Fashion, West Elm, and Victoria s Secret expanded their presence. In addition, several global brands have entered tier-II cities, capitalizing on the strong demand from smaller cities. Desi retailers, on the other hand, have slowed down their store expansion due to a focus on profitability and limited market opportunities.
Hindustan Unilever and United Spirits together present a study in contrasts that seemingly reinforces the current purchasing trends in Indias consumption sector.