What: French luxury brand SANDRO partners with Reliance Brands Limited to establish Indian presence through premium retail location in Mumbai.

Why it is important: This partnership reflects India's growing status as a key luxury market, with BCG projecting 9-10% annual growth, while providing SANDRO access to Reliance's established retail infrastructure.

SANDRO Paris has inaugurated its first Indian store at Mumbai's Jio World Drive in partnership with Reliance Brands Limited, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. The 1,600 square-foot boutique showcases exclusive collections for both women and men, featuring ready-to-wear garments and accessories. Founded in 1984 by Evelyne Chetrite and her son Ilan Chetrite, SANDRO's Mumbai launch represents the brand's initial step in its planned expansion across India and the South Asian market. The store's Holiday collection debut includes distinctive pieces such as rhinestone-studded tweed jackets and pleated trench coats, alongside classic items in traditional shades of black, navy, brown, and grey. Global CEO Isabelle Allouch emphasizes the brand's commitment to connecting with India's fashion-forward youth while highlighting the strategic importance of the Indian market. This expansion aligns with broader industry trends as international luxury brands increasingly view India as a crucial growth market, particularly for reaching younger, affluent consumers.

IADS Notes: SANDRO Paris's entry into India through Reliance Brands Limited comes at a strategic moment in global luxury retail dynamics. As revealed in September 2024, India has emerged as the most attractive emerging market for retail expansion, with BCG projecting 9-10% annual growth to reach USD 2 trillion by 2033. This timing is particularly significant as China experiences "luxury fatigue" and changing consumer preferences, as noted in December 2024 reports. The partnership model with Reliance Brands Limited follows a proven formula, building on the company's established position as India's leading luxury retail player. The expansion aligns with Goldman Sachs' forecast of India's upwardly mobile consumer base growing from 60 million to 100 million by 2027, suggesting strong potential for SANDRO's target market of fashion-forward youth.

SANDRO Paris opens first India store in Mumbai