Gap Inc Launches In India In Partnership With Reliance Retail

The iconic American fashion brand Gap Inc. will set up shop in India through a long-term franchise agreement with Reliance Retail Limited, India’s largest retailer.

Through the long-term partnership, Reliance Retail has become the official retailer for Gap across all channels in India. Reliance Retail will introduce Gap’s latest fashion offerings to Indian consumers through a mix of exclusive brand stores, multi-brand store expressions and digital commerce platforms.

“The partnership is aimed at leveraging Gap’s position as a leading casual lifestyle brand, and Reliance Retail’s established competencies in operating robust omnichannel retail networks and scaling local manufacturing and driving sourcing efficiencies.”  Reliance Retail said about the long-term agreement.

“We look forward to growing the Gap business across key international markets,” said Adrienne Gernand, Managing Director of International, Global Licensing and Wholesale at Gap Inc. “Partnering with regional experts, like Reliance Retail in India, allows us to deliver our relevant, purpose-driven brand to customers around the globe while continuing to diversify our business portfolio through our partner-based model.”

Earlier, Gap had a franchise business relationship with Arvind Fashion, a part of the Lalbhai Group but both the parties mutually parted ways in September 2020, amid the COVID crisis.

Founded in San Francisco in 1969, Gap continues to build on its heritage grounded in denim and connect with customers online and in company-operated and franchise retail locations globally. The latest franchise deal is part of the strategy to expand the business to international markets.