Apparel and Footwear Specialist Retailers in India

PROSPECTS

The shift towards online retailing means adopting a multi-channel approach

The seemingly relentless rise of internet retailing and mobile retailing are set to have a strong influence on apparel and footwear specialist retailers during the forecast period. Whilst the strong growth expected in sales of apparel and footwear through internet retailing is unlikely to mean the end of physical retail stores, it is likely to make the competition even more intense, as store-based retailers must now compete with online retailers as well as other store-based retailers.

A focus on the shopping experience to compete with online retailers

Players such as Van Heusen and Myntra tested new concept stores that focus on the in-store experience, with smart mirrors, smart fitting rooms and the use of different technologies to create a fun purchasing experience. Many younger customers visit physical stores to browse online catalogues, sit down and have a chat and then leave, coming back and completing the purchase during a subsequent visit with their parents.

Retailers are looking to digital platforms and flagship stores to revitalise growth

Physical retailers are using various methods to attract footfall and encourage consumers to spend. Most retail brands have started to understand the complementary benefits of e-commerce, and have begun ramping up their digital capabilities to adopt an omnichannel retail strategy.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Domestic players continue to lead the highly fragmented channel

The leading players within apparel and footwear in India during 2018 were domestic players such as Future Lifestyle Fashions, Future Retail, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail and Arvind. These players have a wide range of brands, such as fbb, Louis Philippe, Excalibur, Van Heusen, Peter England and Allen Solly Menswear, amongst others, positioned at various price points to ensure they can capture both the mass and premium segments.

International brands are set to offer tough competition in the forecast period

The inflow of international brands has increased, with brands such as H&M, Gap and Zara, amongst others, entering the market over the review period. International brands are also expanding their physical presence, leading to increased competition.

Apparel and footwear specialist retailers compete online

Internet retailing significantly increased its presence in India over the review period. As consumers’ shopping patterns evolved, consumers were more comfortable buying apparel and footwear online.

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