What: Arthur Lemoine discusses Galeries Lafayette opening its first Indian flagship in Mumbai in partnership with Aditya Birla, targeting the country’s growing luxury market.

Why it is important: The development highlights how department stores are adapting their networks and offerings to thrive in rapidly evolving retail environments.

Galeries Lafayette’s debut in Mumbai marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of global department stores, as the French retailer partners with Aditya Birla to tap into India’s burgeoning luxury market. The store, located in the historic Kala Ghoda district, spans over 9,000 square metres and introduces a curated selection of 300 brands, with 70% of the assortment exclusive to the Indian market. By leveraging Aditya Birla’s local expertise, Galeries Lafayette aims to bridge French retail tradition with Indian consumer aspirations, adapting its offer through modular retail formats, price alignment with Dubai, and services tailored to local preferences, such as valet parking and private lounges. The long-term franchise agreement underscores a commitment to sustainable growth, while the strategy of selective expansion and network optimisation reflects a broader industry trend. The Mumbai flagship is positioned as a launchpad for further national growth, with plans for Delhi and synergies with the French network, demonstrating a nuanced approach to internationalisation, brand stewardship, and experiential retail.

IADS Notes: Galeries Lafayette’s opening in Mumbai in partnership with Aditya Birla exemplifies the current wave of international department store expansion into high-growth markets, as seen in October 2025 ("Aditya Birla celebrates their partnership with Galeries Lafayette by opening the Mumbai store," Luxury Tribune; "French luxe retailer Galeries Lafayette set for India entry," India Economic Times). This move is part of a broader €400 million investment plan, which also includes the modernization of the Haussmann flagship and strategic network optimization, as reported in February 2025 ("Galeries Lafayette’s Chief Buying Officer details the company strategy," Le Figaro). The partnership with Aditya Birla highlights the increasing reliance on local conglomerates to facilitate market entry and adaptation, a trend mirrored by Reliance’s franchise agreement with Saks Fifth Avenue in January 2025 ("Reliance to bring Saks Fifth Avenue to India, enters into franchise agreement," India Economic Times). Both companies are leveraging franchise models to navigate India’s evolving luxury landscape, while also adapting their offerings to local consumer behaviours and regulatory environments, as detailed in December 2025 ("How Reliance Retail rules the Indian fashion market," BoF). The strategic focus on experiential retail, omnichannel growth, and selective store closures aligns with the industry’s shift toward modernisation and resilience, as discussed in April 2025 ("Department stores can be a beacon for retail," The Retail Bulletin).

Galeries Lafayette’s CEO Arthur Lemoine on pioneering in India