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As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and redefine the future of creative professions, some of India’s most respected designers and entrepreneurs shared a common message with students: success in the years ahead will require far more than creative talent alone. Renowned couturier Rahul Mishra, entrepreneur Masaba Gupta, and luxury bridal designer Jayanti Reddy addressed students at Pearl Academy’s Global Icons Series, highlighting the growing importance of combining creativity, craftsmanship, business expertise and technological adaptability.

Offering his perspective on the role of AI in design, Rahul Mishra described the technology as a valuable collaborator rather than a substitute for human ingenuity. The internationally celebrated designer, known for his regular presence on the Paris Haute Couture calendar, emphasised that while AI can accelerate research and expand perspectives, it cannot replace craftsmanship and originality. “We never design alone. AI is simply another assistant, faster and wider in perspective. But the physical making, the craftsmanship, the human hand, that remains irreplaceable. Work on your craft. Nobody can take that away from you.” He encouraged students to use AI to challenge ideas, enhance research and strengthen creative thinking while continuing to invest in skills that remain uniquely human.

Masaba Gupta, Founder of House of Masaba and LoveChild, urged students to view AI as an opportunity rather than a threat. According to her, those who effectively integrate technology into their workflows will gain a significant advantage in an increasingly competitive environment. “AI will not replace you. It will replace the person who doesn't embrace AI. People fear AI because it reveals your true potential. The question is no longer whether something can be done faster. The question is whether your thinking is sharp enough to make the most of it.”

Highlighting another critical aspect of professional success, Jayanti Reddy spoke about the importance of business knowledge in creative careers. Having built her luxury bridal label from modest beginnings into a prominent enterprise supported by hundreds of artisans, she stressed that entrepreneurship demands far more than design expertise. “I spend only ten per cent of my time creating today. The other ninety per cent is business. Designers often prepare for the creative side but underestimate the importance of building systems, teams and sustainable businesses.”

The sessions provided students with a valuable opportunity to interact directly with industry leaders who have successfully built influential brands and businesses. Through open discussions and personal experiences, participants gained practical insights into navigating uncertainty, fostering innovation and sustaining long-term creative careers in a rapidly evolving landscape.

The Global Icons Series is a key component of Pearl Academy’s experiential learning model, designed to connect students with accomplished entrepreneurs, industry experts and changemakers. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry expectations by exposing students to firsthand experiences and professional perspectives.

Reflecting on the impact of the sessions, Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy, said: “The Global Icons Series reflects our belief that some of the most meaningful learning comes from direct interactions with people who have built their craft through lived experience and are candid about the realities of the journey. Rahul, Masaba, and Jayanti offered students valuable perspectives to reflect on their own aspirations and career paths. Combined with the skills and AI literacy integrated across our programmes, this helps shape complete professionals.”

The discussions also underscored Pearl Academy’s broader academic transformation. With a legacy spanning more than three decades, the institution has adopted a Human Intelligence + Artificial Intelligence framework that positions AI as a collaborative tool capable of enhancing creativity, innovation and problem-solving rather than replacing human potential.

A central part of this approach is Pearl Academy’s partnership with Open AI and an academic structure in which over one-third of the curriculum incorporates AI enabled learning. Students are exposed to generative AI technologies and AI-assisted workflows across disciplines, helping them become Domain Ready, AI Ready, Life Ready and Future Ready. Additional initiatives such as the Runway Incubator further encourage entrepreneurship, experimentation and innovation among students.

As debates around AI often focus on automation and disruption, the message shared by Rahul Mishra, Masaba Gupta and Jayanti Reddy offered a more optimistic perspective. They collectively highlighted that the professionals most likely to succeed in the future will be those who can harness technological advancements while combining them with creativity, sound judgment, resilience and entrepreneurial thinking to create meaningful impact.

Kunal Rawal has strengthened his retail presence with the launch of a new flagship store in Mehrauli, Delhi, marking the brand’s fifth outlet in India and its second location in the national capital. More than a conventional retail space, the new flagship has been envisioned as an immersive destination that brings together design, craftsmanship and innovation, reflecting the evolving identity of the Kunal Rawal brand and its approach to contemporary Indian occasion wear.

Delhi continues to hold a special place in the designer’s journey, with its vibrant culture of celebrations and distinctive fashion sensibilities closely aligning with the brand’s creative ethos. The Mehrauli location, therefore, serves as a fitting backdrop for the label’s latest expansion and growing presence in the luxury menswear segment.

Created in collaboration with architect Rooshad Shroff, the store marks the fifth project between the designer and architect, and is described as their most ambitious undertaking to date. The space is built around Green Baroda marble, creating a seamless and sculptural environment where walls, floors and furnishings appear to emerge from a unified material language. Adding contrast to this solid foundation is an oxidized gold ceiling that changes character throughout the day as light shifts across the space.

Functionality plays a central role in the store’s design. Motorized garment racks move discreetly into the ceiling when not in use, display tables glide along integrated tracks, and mirrors contribute to the dynamic transformation of the interiors. Rather than hiding these mechanical elements, the concept embraces them, turning functionality into a key aesthetic feature.

The flagship further enhances the customer experience through a series of architectural details and interactive design features. Visitors enter through a dramatic corridor lined with Morse code-inspired mirrors that create fragmented reflections before leading into the main retail area. Custom lighting systems alter the atmosphere from daytime to evening, while hand-engraved marble work, digital installations and sculptural brass accents reinforce the idea of the store as a constantly evolving environment rather than a traditional shopping destination.

Speaking about the launch, Kunal Rawal says: " Delhi has always felt like a natural extension of the brand for me. There’s a certain energy here, how people celebrate, how they dress, how they show up. This store is our way of responding to that, but in a way that still feels very true to us. It’s probably our most immersive space yet. Everything you see from the marble to the mechanisms, is intentional. It’s not just about how it looks, but how it works.”

Alongside the opening of the flagship, the designer has introduced three new couture capsules that highlight different facets of the brand’s creative direction. The KR Hybrid Minds collection focuses on engineered construction, adaptable silhouettes and layered aesthetics, reinterpreting traditional garments such as the bandhgala and kurta through innovative techniques that balance complexity with comfort and fluidity.

The KR Box Pleat capsule takes inspiration from a classic tailoring element and transforms it into a distinctive design language. Through sculptural folds, controlled volume and tonal variations, the collection creates pieces that blur the boundaries between architecture and fashion while introducing movement and dimension to occasion wear.

Meanwhile, KR Black represents a deeply personal creative exploration for the designer. Centered on black as a timeless constant rather than simply a colour, the collection showcases layered monochromatic looks enriched with intricate embroideries, refined textures and sophisticated craftsmanship, reinforcing black as a signature element of the Kunal Rawal aesthetic.

Together, the Mehrauli flagship and the newly launched couture capsules signal the next phase of the brand’s evolution. By combining craftsmanship, technology, functionality and contemporary design, Kunal Rawal continues to push the boundaries of Indian menswear while creating experiences that extend beyond fashion and retail.

Premium men’s occasion wear brand Devo has further strengthened its presence in the national capital with the launch of a new store at DLF Mid Town Plaza in Moti Nagar. The opening marks the brand’s fifth outlet in Delhi and its 19th store across North India, highlighting its continued focus on expanding into key fashion and lifestyle markets.

Situated within one of Delhi’s newest retail destinations, the store reflects Devo’s commitment to offering elevated shopping experiences tailored to consumers seeking premium occasion wear. The addition of the Moti Nagar outlet not only broadens the brand’s reach within the city but also reinforces its growing position in India’s organized premium menswear retail segment.

The partnership with DLF represents an important step in Devo’s growth journey. Known for developing some of the country’s most prominent retail and lifestyle destinations, DLF has played a significant role in shaping modern shopping experiences in India. For Devo, establishing a presence at DLF Mid Town Plaza serves as a reflection of the brand’s increasing consumer appeal, evolving retail experience, and premium positioning within the occasion wear category.

Over the past year, the company has accelerated its expansion strategy across North India, building a network of 19 stores across 15 cities. Its presence now spans major markets including Delhi, Gurugram, Dehradun, Lucknow, Ludhiana, and Gorakhpur. This growth has been driven by the brand’s vision of bringing premium occasion wear closer to consumers in both established metropolitan centers and emerging cities.

The new store also strengthens Devo’s foothold within Delhi’s thriving wedding and celebration wear market. Located in West Delhi, the outlet is strategically positioned to serve a wider customer base while enhancing accessibility in one of India’s most influential fashion destinations. With the latest addition, Devo’s retail network in Delhi now includes stores in Lajpat Nagar, Pitampura, South Extension, Omaxe Mall Chandni Chowk, and Moti Nagar.

Guided by its philosophy, “Made of India. Made for Every Moment,” Devo continues to focus on creating contemporary occasion wear that combines Indian craftsmanship, cultural relevance, and modern design sensibilities. As the company continues its expansion journey, it remains focused on strengthening its retail footprint, enhancing customer experiences, and contributing to the evolution of India’s premium menswear market.

Da Milano has taken another step in its retail transformation journey with the launch of a new concept store at Worldmark 6, Aerocity, New Delhi. The outlet reflects the brand’s evolving approach to luxury retail and becomes only the second location worldwide to showcase its newly developed global store format.

The concept has been created in partnership with UK-based Zebra Design Company, marking the design firm's first venture in India as well as its first collaboration with an Indian brand. Through this initiative, Da Milano aims to deliver a more immersive and contemporary shopping environment while staying rooted in its heritage of craftsmanship and premium design.

Covering around 600 sq. ft., the store has been planned to encourage seamless customer interaction with products. Unlike traditional retail formats, the layout focuses on openness and fluid movement, allowing visitors to explore collections naturally. Large storefronts, carefully curated product displays, and thoughtfully designed pathways contribute to an engaging shopping journey.

The new design language, developed under the direction of Da Milano Director Sahil Malik, reflects a blend of modern luxury and Italian-inspired aesthetics. The interiors feature earthy textures, warm wood finishes, sculpted forms, and understated stone accents, creating a refined setting that places products at the centre of the experience.

Attention has also been given to visual presentation. Ambient lighting, artistic display structures, and minimalist fixtures have been incorporated to enhance product visibility while maintaining a sophisticated and uncluttered environment. The result is a retail space that feels more like a curated gallery than a conventional store.

Da Milano currently operates a network of over 100 exclusive boutiques across global markets, including locations at leading international airports. Its portfolio spans leather handbags, accessories, travel products, and limited-edition collections designed for premium consumers.

Commenting on the project, Sahil Malik said, “This collaboration strengthens Da Milano’s modern luxury positioning, blending timeless craftsmanship with global design sensibilities.”

Situated in Aerocity’s thriving commercial and lifestyle district, the new outlet is expected to attract a diverse mix of shoppers, ranging from local luxury consumers to international travellers passing through the capital. The launch further strengthens Da Milano’s presence in one of India’s most prominent premium retail destinations.

Established in 1989, Da Milano has built its reputation around leather craftsmanship and Italian-inspired design. The company continues to expand its offerings with more than 300 new styles introduced every season, reflecting its commitment to innovation and evolving consumer preferences.

The Aerocity opening signals a broader effort by the brand to modernise its retail footprint and align its customer experience with global luxury standards, setting the stage for future concept-led store developments across its network.

Bombay Shirt Company has expanded its presence in South India with the launch of ‘The Den’ in Chennai, introducing a new experiential retail destination that combines bespoke menswear, premium hospitality, and community engagement. The opening marks another step in the brand’s growth journey as it continues to strengthen its footprint in key urban markets across the country.

At the heart of the new store is Bombay Shirt Company’s renowned offering of custom-made and ready-to-wear menswear. Designed for the modern Indian consumer, the collection features timeless wardrobe essentials crafted with a contemporary sensibility. Customers can choose from thousands of premium fabrics sourced from some of the world’s leading textile mills, while receiving expert styling advice from dedicated in-store consultants.

The Chennai outlet also houses an in-house tailoring team that provides precise measurements and personalized fittings, ensuring every garment reflects the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, comfort, and customization. This service remains a key differentiator for Bombay Shirt Company, which has built its reputation around made-to-measure apparel and superior fit.

In addition to bespoke clothing, ‘The Den’ offers the brand’s complete menswear portfolio, including shirts, trousers, chinos, denim, knitwear, T-shirts, shorts, outerwear, and seasonal collections. Regular product launches and fresh collections ensure customers have access to versatile wardrobe options that seamlessly blend classic style with evolving fashion trends.

Speaking about the launch, Chippy Aditya Mehta, Co-founder & COO, Bombay Shirt Company, said, "Chennai has always appreciated quality, craftsmanship, and thoughtful experiences. With ‘The Den’, we wanted to create a space that goes beyond traditional retail. One where style, hospitality, and community come together naturally. It is a destination designed for customers to slow down, spend time, and experience menswear in a more meaningful and engaging way."

The introduction of ‘The Den’ reflects Bombay Shirt Company’s broader vision of redefining the menswear retail experience in India. By integrating personalized fashion, elevated customer experiences, and community-focused interactions within a single destination, the brand aims to create spaces that serve as more than just stores. Instead, they are designed to become lifestyle hubs where customers can engage with fashion in a more immersive and meaningful way.

As the company continues its expansion across India, the Chennai launch underscores its commitment to innovation in retail and its efforts to build deeper connections with consumers seeking quality, personalization, and a refined shopping experience.

Indian denim and casualwear brand Spykar is stepping up its retail growth strategy with an ambitious expansion plan aimed at strengthening its presence across the country. The company has announced a series of upcoming store launches in cities such as Ghaziabad, Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Simdega, and Darbhanga, reflecting its focus on tapping into high-potential markets beyond the major metropolitan regions.

As part of its broader retail development roadmap, Spykar is increasingly prioritizing premium high streets and larger shopping destinations. Recent store openings at Lakeshore Mall in Hyderabad, Inorbit Mall in Vizag, and Ansa Mall in Ghaziabad highlight the brand’s strategy of enhancing visibility in key retail hubs while offering customers a more elevated shopping environment.

The latest expansion forms a crucial component of Spykar’s long-term growth plans across India. Over the next two years, the company aims to add 100 new stores to its network, taking its total retail footprint beyond 380 locations nationwide. The move underscores the brand’s confidence in India's evolving fashion market and its commitment to making its products more accessible to consumers across diverse regions.

The expansion comes at a time when tier II and tier III cities are emerging as significant contributors to the growth of the fashion and lifestyle industry. Rising disposable incomes, increasing exposure to global fashion trends, and growing demand for organized retail have transformed these markets into attractive destinations for leading apparel brands. Consumers in smaller cities are increasingly seeking premium shopping experiences, creating new opportunities for retailers looking to expand their reach.

Sharing insights into the company’s growth strategy, Sanjay Vakharia, Co-Founder & CEO, Spykar Lifestyle, said, “In 2026, we have seen a surge in offline expansion across retail brands from various sub-sectors. Despite access to digital mediums, the look and feel of products and experience of shopping remains desirable. Our growth plans reflect Spykar’s continued commitment to bring a more immersive and elevated shopping experience to consumers across India.”

The newly launched stores have been designed to reflect Spykar’s contemporary brand identity and youthful appeal. Featuring a modern and premium aesthetic, the outlets are intended to offer customers more than just a retail destination, creating an engaging lifestyle-focused environment that aligns with the preferences of today’s fashion-conscious consumers.

Store layouts and visual merchandising elements have been carefully curated to improve product discovery and enhance the overall customer journey. Shoppers can explore Spykar’s signature denim collections alongside an extensive range of casualwear and trend-driven apparel designed for modern lifestyles. The product portfolio continues to embody the brand’s core values of comfort, self-expression, and effortless style, catering to the evolving fashion preferences of India's younger generation.

With a strong emphasis on experiential retail and expansion into fast-growing regional markets, Spykar is positioning itself to capitalize on the next phase of growth in India’s fashion retail sector while reinforcing its status as one of the country’s leading denim-focused brands.

The vibrant café culture of Bengaluru welcomes a brand-new destination as Paper & Pie officially opens the doors to its fifth outlet, located at the Godrej Centre in Hebbal, Sahakar Nagar. This significant expansion marks the prominent neighborhood café brand’s inaugural entry into North Bengaluru, successfully bringing its trademark community-centric dining experience directly to the residents of the city’s rapidly growing northern corridor.

Since making its successful debut in Indiranagar in 2022, Paper & Pie has consistently expanded its presence across the city, transforming into a beloved neighborhood anchor and gathering spot. Over the years, the brand has cultivated a deeply loyal community of patrons who have integrated the café experience into their daily routines. The unveiling of the Hebbal establishment stands as a pivotal milestone in the company’s growth trajectory, extending its signature warm hospitality to an entirely new demographic.

Conceived as a highly adaptable environment, the new café seamlessly caters to remote working, casual relaxation, and vibrant social interactions. The space remains fiercely dedicated to the core philosophy of Paper & Pie—crafting welcoming environments where individuals can effortlessly network, create, and unwind. Visitors can explore a thoughtfully curated menu that harmoniously fuses traditional Indian comforting flavors with diverse international influences spanning Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Additionally, the culinary lineup boasts an array of artisanal, freshly baked goods including flaky croissants, signature pies, and rich brownies, all designed to complement the brand's celebrated, award-winning coffee selection sourced straight from the pristine estates of Chikmagalur.

Reflecting on the milestone, Sandeep Nagaiah, Co-Founder of Paper & Pie, shares his thoughts on the opening, "When we started in 2022, the idea was to create a wholesome cafe experience built around great brews, freshly prepared food, and spaces people genuinely enjoy spending time in. Watching coffee become an everyday ritual for so many people and seeing how deeply they connect with a space that feels familiar, has been the most rewarding part of this journey. Our fifth outlet is a reflection of that love, and we are so glad to finally bring it to North Bangalore."

Echoing this sentiment of purposeful expansion, Vamsi Reddy, Co-Founder of Paper & Pie, adds, "Every outlet we open carries the same intention as our very first: to bring Paper & Pie closer to people, wherever they are. We have always believed that people connect deeply with familiar spaces, and Hebbal feels like a natural next step in that story. This phase also marks the beginning of something new for us. Every outlet has taught us how to grow better, and we come into this one with all of that behind us. Here is to many more cups of coffee, good conversations, and memories still to come."

As the domestic café landscape shifts toward more experiential and premium consumer offerings, Paper & Pie continues to solidify its market position. The brand remains steadfastly committed to pairing top-tier culinary offerings and exceptional specialty coffee with immersive, community-driven retail environments that align perfectly with the lifestyle preferences of contemporary urban consumers.

Reliance Retail’s premium fashion and lifestyle brand AZORTE has expanded its brick-and-mortar footprint with the opening of two new stores in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad, reinforcing its growing presence across major urban markets in India. The latest additions reflect the brand’s continued focus on offering a blend of contemporary fashion and technology-driven shopping experiences to consumers nationwide.

The newly launched Bengaluru outlet is located in HSR Layout and spans 10,996 square feet across four levels. To mark the occasion, the brand hosted “AZORTE PRIVE,” an immersive launch event that brought together fashion, music, and community-focused experiences, aligning with its strategy of creating engaging retail environments beyond conventional shopping.

Further strengthening its network, AZORTE also inaugurated its 44th store at Nexus Ahmedabad in Gujarat. Covering 12,865 square feet on a single floor, the store was officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by actor Janki Bodiwala.

Both stores showcase AZORTE’s wide-ranging portfolio, including womenswear, menswear, kidswear, and accessories. The brand continues to target style-conscious young shoppers by offering trend-driven collections supported by innovative retail technology.

Customers visiting the new outlets will have access to several digital-first features designed to enhance convenience and personalize the shopping journey. These include RFID and QR-code-enabled inventory systems, smart trial rooms that provide styling suggestions, and self-checkout counters aimed at streamlining purchases and reducing waiting times.

With these latest openings, AZORTE is accelerating its expansion across key cities while strengthening its position as a fashion destination that combines style, innovation, and experiential retail. Backed by Reliance Retail, the brand remains focused on integrating technology with fashion as it grows its offline presence across the country.

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has announced the launch of two new stores in India as part of its ongoing expansion strategy, further strengthening its presence in key urban markets across the country. The Japanese fashion brand will open a new store at Phoenix Market City in Pune on 15 May, followed by another outlet at Phoenix Marketcity Bangalore on 5 June. The expansion reflects UNIQLO’s continued focus on increasing accessibility to its LifeWear range for Indian consumers and capitalizing on the growing demand for high-quality, functional, and everyday apparel in some of the country’s fastest-growing metropolitan cities.

The latest store openings mark another important milestone in UNIQLO’s growth journey in India, where the brand has steadily expanded its retail footprint since entering the market. By establishing a stronger presence in Pune and Bengaluru, two cities known for their rapidly expanding urban populations and increasing spending on lifestyle and fashion products, UNIQLO aims to connect with a broader customer base while reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Indian market.

The company’s expansion strategy is being driven by the positive response its products have received from consumers seeking practical, versatile, and premium-quality clothing. Through its globally recognized LifeWear philosophy, UNIQLO focuses on creating apparel that combines functionality, comfort, quality, and timeless design, catering to the everyday needs of customers across different age groups and lifestyles. The concept has resonated strongly with Indian shoppers who are increasingly looking for wardrobe essentials that offer both style and practicality.

Commenting on the expansion, Kenji Inoue, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, UNIQLO India, highlighted the encouraging customer response that has supported the brand’s growth plans in the country. “The response from our customers in India has been incredibly encouraging, especially in cities like Pune and Bengaluru where there is a growing demand for simple, high-quality everyday clothing,” said Kenji Inoue, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, UNIQLO India. “With these new stores, we look forward to reaching even more customers and continuing to bring LifeWear to people across India.”

The upcoming Pune store at Phoenix Market City and the Bengaluru outlet at Phoenix Marketcity Bangalore will each cover approximately 21,000 square feet, making them significant additions to the company’s retail network in India. Both stores will offer the complete range of UNIQLO’s LifeWear collections for men, women, and children, ensuring customers have access to the brand’s extensive product portfolio under one roof. From everyday essentials and casual wear to seasonal collections and innovative fabric technologies, shoppers will be able to explore a comprehensive assortment designed to meet a variety of lifestyle requirements.

In addition to offering its full product range, the new stores have been designed to deliver a seamless and engaging shopping experience. Customers can expect modern store layouts that prioritize convenience and ease of navigation, allowing them to browse collections comfortably. The stores will also incorporate UNIQLO’s signature visual identity, creating a consistent brand experience that aligns with its global retail standards. The emphasis on customer-centric design reflects the retailer’s commitment to enhancing the in-store shopping journey while maintaining a strong connection with local consumers.

The expansion into Pune and Bengaluru comes at a time when India’s apparel and fashion retail sector continues to witness significant growth, supported by rising disposable incomes, changing consumer preferences, and increasing demand for international brands. Both cities have emerged as important retail destinations, attracting major domestic and global fashion retailers seeking to tap into a young, aspirational, and increasingly fashion-conscious customer base. By strengthening its presence in these high-potential markets, UNIQLO is positioning itself to benefit from the evolving retail landscape and growing demand for premium everyday fashion.

Industry observers note that international apparel brands are increasingly focusing on expanding beyond traditional retail hubs as they seek to capture opportunities in emerging urban centers. Pune and Bengaluru, with their thriving professional communities, expanding residential developments, and robust shopping infrastructure, represent attractive markets for retailers looking to build long-term growth in India.

For UNIQLO, the latest store openings are part of a broader strategy to deepen market penetration while introducing more consumers to the brand’s LifeWear concept. As customer demand for quality-driven and functional fashion continues to rise, the company is expected to further strengthen its retail footprint across the country. The new stores not only enhance UNIQLO’s accessibility in western and southern India but also reinforce its ambition to become a leading player in the country’s highly competitive apparel retail market.

Fashion-tech brand NEWME has strengthened its offline presence with the launch of its 25th retail store in India, marking a significant milestone in the company's omnichannel growth journey. The new outlet, located in Vadodara, reflects the brand’s continued focus on expanding its physical retail network while catering to the evolving preferences of Gen Z consumers.

The latest store, situated at Kanha Capital in Alkapuri, has been designed around NEWME’s youth-centric retail philosophy. Featuring interactive zones and creator-inspired experiences, the outlet aims to deliver an engaging shopping environment that resonates with younger customers seeking more than just traditional retail experiences.

With the opening of the Vadodara store, NEWME now operates 25 outlets across 14 cities nationwide. The expansion further strengthens the company’s footprint in Gujarat, where it currently has four stores, including locations in Ahmedabad and Surat. The milestone highlights the brand’s rapid transformation from a digital-first startup into a growing omnichannel fashion retailer.

Founded in 2022, NEWME has steadily expanded its presence across both metropolitan and emerging markets. The company currently serves customers through stores in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Surat, Indore, and Dehradun. According to the brand, it has catered to more than 22 lakh customers across India through its company-owned, company-operated (COCO) retail model.

Commenting on the achievement, Sumit Jasoria, Co-founder & CEO, NEWME, said, “Opening our 25th store is more than just a retail milestone. It’s a proof that Gen Z in India is ready for a new-age fashion brand that moves at their speed, speaks their language, and builds experiences beyond shopping. What started as a digital-first idea has now grown into a truly omnichannel fashion movement powered by community, culture, and constant innovation. This milestone gives us even more confidence to accelerate our offline expansion aggressively across India.”

The company believes that the future of fashion retail will be shaped by experience-led shopping, community engagement, and speed-driven commerce. As part of this vision, NEWME continues to invest in both its physical retail presence and technology ecosystem to enhance customer convenience and engagement.

Sharing the company’s growth roadmap, Jasoria added, “As we continue to scale, our focus remains on building deeper access across Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets, strengthening our quick-commerce ecosystem through NEWME Zip, and continuing to innovate across both retail and technology. We believe the next phase of fashion retail in India will be driven by speed, community, and experience — and that is exactly what we’re building NEWME around.”

Looking ahead, NEWME plans to open more than 25 additional stores by the end of 2026. The expansion will cover key markets including Vizag, Ludhiana, Bhopal, Agartala, and Kolkata, along with several emerging cities in the North-East region. The company is also scaling NEWME Zip, its quick-commerce platform currently available in Delhi and Bengaluru, as it seeks to strengthen its omnichannel capabilities.

Founded by Sumit Jasoria, Vinod Naik, Shivam Tripathi, and Himanshu Chaudhary, NEWME has built its brand around trend-driven fashion, technology-enabled retail operations, and an agile supply chain model. As the company continues its nationwide expansion, it remains focused on delivering a fast, immersive, and community-led shopping experience for India’s next generation of consumers.

Metro Brands has expanded its retail footprint in eastern India with the opening of a new Metro store on Jessore Road in Barasat, Kolkata, West Bengal. The latest launch forms part of the company’s broader expansion strategy focused on increasing its reach across prominent urban and suburban markets in the country.

The new outlet is strategically located in the busy Barasat locality, an area witnessing growing consumer activity and rising demand for branded retail experiences. Through this launch, the company aims to further strengthen its presence in the Kolkata market while catering to a wider customer base in the surrounding region.

Designed to serve shoppers across different age groups, the store will showcase Metro’s extensive footwear collection for men, women, and children. The brand continues to position itself around a combination of style, comfort, and affordability, offering consumers a diverse selection of footwear suited to both casual and formal occasions.

Metro Brands shared details of the new opening through its social media channels, highlighting the store as another milestone in its ongoing retail growth journey. The company has been steadily expanding its offline network across India as part of its strategy to strengthen accessibility and enhance customer engagement in high-potential markets.

With the addition of the Barasat outlet, Metro Brands continues to reinforce its position in India’s organized footwear retail segment, leveraging strategic store placements to tap into evolving consumer preferences and growing demand for branded lifestyle products in emerging urban centers.

Indian menswear brand SNITCH has further strengthened its offline retail network with the launch of its 115th store in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. The latest opening highlights the company’s continued expansion across key urban markets in India and signals its growing focus on identifying high-potential retail destinations with strong consumer demand.

The announcement was shared by Chetan Siyal, Founding Member and Chief Marketing Officer of SNITCH, through LinkedIn. Situated in one of Hyderabad’s most premium shopping and lifestyle districts, the new outlet has been designed to appeal to the city’s fashion-conscious and trend-driven consumers. Hyderabad has emerged as an important market for lifestyle and fashion brands, driven by a young and aspirational customer base that increasingly seeks contemporary fashion alongside elevated retail experiences.

With the Banjara Hills launch, SNITCH continues to sharpen its localized retail strategy by moving away from a one-size-fits-all expansion model. Instead, the brand is placing greater emphasis on adapting each store’s product assortment, in-store experience, and retail approach according to the preferences and cultural nuances of the local market. This reflects the company’s broader shift toward relevance-focused growth, where understanding consumer behavior plays a central role in shaping expansion decisions.

Over the years, SNITCH has emerged as one of India’s fast-growing direct-to-consumer menswear brands, gaining popularity for its trend-led and globally inspired fashion offerings at accessible price points. The company has built its reputation around an agile supply chain and a rapid design-to-market model, allowing it to frequently introduce fresh collections while staying aligned with changing fashion trends and consumer preferences.

The brand’s portfolio includes a wide range of menswear categories such as shirts, t-shirts, trousers, jackets, and co-ord sets, primarily catering to young urban consumers looking for contemporary and expressive styles. While the company initially adopted a digital-first approach, it has steadily expanded its offline footprint to strengthen its omnichannel presence and create a more seamless shopping experience for customers across online and physical touchpoints.

With 115 operational stores now spread across multiple cities, SNITCH is continuing to refine its retail expansion strategy by using each new launch as an opportunity to gain deeper market insights and build stronger customer engagement. The Hyderabad store reflects the company’s broader philosophy of ensuring that every outlet is tailored to the pulse and preferences of its local audience, rather than simply focusing on numerical expansion.

As the brand continues to scale its presence across India, its strategy remains centered on building immersive and meaningful retail spaces that extend beyond conventional shopping experiences. Through its evolving omnichannel approach, SNITCH aims to create stores that are adaptive, consumer-centric, and closely connected to the lifestyle aspirations of modern Indian shoppers.

British lifestyle icon Carlton London has officially entered the Indian home interiors market through a strategic partnership with EBG Group. The collaboration has launched Carlton Luxury Furniture, a venture dedicated to conscious living and environmental responsibility. The announcement was made by Carl Virk, Founder of Carlton London, and Dr. Irfan Khan, Founder and Chairman of EBG Group, alongside key leadership from both organizations.

To fuel its nationwide growth, the brand has unveiled an ambitious franchise-driven expansion strategy. Over the next five years, the company plans to establish 600 showrooms across 300 cities, mobilizing an estimated ₹1800 to ₹2000 crore in investment from franchise partners. This large-scale rollout is projected to create over 12,000 jobs and integrate MSME and SME partners into a robust, sustainable supply chain.

At its core, the brand is prioritizing a "People • Planet • Progress" philosophy. By implementing circular design and eco-friendly manufacturing, Carlton Luxury Furniture aims to reduce its carbon footprint by approximately 16,000 kg annually. 

The product range featuring Chesterfield sofas, bespoke storage, and modern dining sets is crafted from premium, cruelty free materials and built for a 15 year lifespan. To combat the 13.4 percent of pollution caused by furniture waste, the brand is also introducing India’s first furniture buyback and refurbishment program.

Reflecting on the vision behind the brand, 

Dr. Irfan Khan, Founder and CEO of EBG Group said, “Carlton Luxury Furniture represents a shift in how India will perceive and invest in furniture. The industry has long focused on short-term consumption with limited attention to longevity or environmental impact. We are introducing a model that combines design with sustainability, where furniture is built to last 10 to 15 years and continues to create value through solutions such as buyback and refurbishment. Our vision is to make conscious living aspirational and accessible at scale. In doing so, we are also working towards a measurable environmental impact, with a targeted reduction of nearly 16,000 kg of carbon footprint annually as we scale this model across India.”

Carl Virk, Founder of Carlton London added, “We have always stood for timeless elegance, superior craftsmanship, and uncompromising quality. Through this partnership with EBG Group, One of the defining highlights of this brand is its strong emphasis on home-grown manufacturing. Every piece is crafted with a strong focus on quality, durability, and refined aesthetics, ensuring that luxury is not only experienced but also responsibly created.”

This entry marks a significant evolution for Carlton London as it transitions from a fashion and accessory powerhouse into a holistic lifestyle provider, bridging British design with Indian manufacturing excellence.

Gargi by PN Gadgil & Sons (PNGS) has significantly broadened its retail footprint this April, launching four new points of sale to strengthen its reach across key Indian markets. This strategic expansion includes the brand’s debut in Kolkata with an exclusive outlet in Salt Lake and its first entry into the national capital with a kiosk at Pacific Mall, Netaji Subhash Place. 

Additionally, the brand bolstered its presence in Madhya Pradesh with a new kiosk in Gwalior and reinforced its Maharashtra operations with a dedicated store in Amravati. These openings across West Bengal, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra highlight Gargi’s commitment to tapping into high-potential, underserved markets for organized fashion jewellery retail.

The brand's growth trajectory remains robust, having closed FY26 with a network of over 126 points of sale spanning 65 cities and 21 states. This network comprises various formats, including exclusive brand outlets, shop-in-shop setups, and franchise-led stores. For FY27, the company has set an ambitious target to add 20 new stores, continuing its market-specific strategy of using full-format outlets in major catchments and capital-efficient kiosks in high-footfall locations to drive brand visibility and growth.

Aditya Modak, Co-founder of PNGS Gargi Fashion Jewellery Ltd., stated: “Every city we enter teaches us something new about how Indian consumers relate to jewellery. Kolkata brings a sophisticated, trend-aware buyer. Gwalior represents the aspirational tier II market that is now firmly on the radar of organised retail. 

Aditya further added, "Amravati is the home ground of a market that trusts the PNGS name and is embracing Gargi as its own. And New Delhi is a statement of our first footprint at one of its most connected retail nodes. These four stores are not just about adding numbers to our count. They are about building a brand that feels genuinely local wherever it goes. With 20 new stores planned for FY27 and a strong balance sheet to back it, we are in a strong position to keep this momentum going."

Backed by the long-standing legacy of the P. N. Gadgil & Sons Group, Gargi operates with a zero-debt balance sheet and targets a revenue CAGR of approximately 35 percent over the coming years. Its diverse portfolio features 925 sterling silver, natural diamond jewellery in 9, 12, and 14KT gold, and plain gold pieces, alongside fashion-forward gifting products designed for everyday wear. This blend of tradition and modern retail efficiency positions the brand as a formidable player in the evolving fashion jewellery landscape.

Kiaasa Retail, an NCR-based ethnic wear brand that was listed on the stock exchanges earlier this week, is planning an aggressive retail expansion over the next few years. The company intends to use the proceeds from its IPO to significantly scale its store network as part of its long-term growth strategy.

According to Om Prakash, Chairman and Managing Director, Kiaasa Retail, the brand aims to expand its physical footprint steadily in the coming years. “We plan to open another 67 to 70 stores in the next couple of years, for which we have raised this fund. However, we have a bigger vision for having a network of 250 stores by FY29, expanding more deeply inside,” he said.

The company, which raised Rs 69.7 crore through its IPO, was listed on the BSE SME platform on Monday. Currently, Kiaasa Retail operates more than 122 stores across India and has a presence in over 70 cities across 16 states.

Prakash highlighted that the current expansion marks the beginning of a larger growth journey for the brand. “This is the first phase of our journey,” he said, adding that the company is focusing strongly on Tier II and Tier III cities, which form the core of its customer base.

Looking ahead, the company is also open to raising additional funds to support its expansion plans and product development. Prakash noted that this would help the brand improve its offerings and scale its operations further. “For a better expansion, better management of the products that customer demands. So it's just the beginning of a journey,” he said.

He also described the company’s stock market debut as an important milestone in its growth story. “It will support working capital requirements and expansion plans, enabling to further strengthen our presence in the women’s fashion segment.”

Reflecting on the company’s relatively young journey, Prakash said, “It's just a five-year-old company. It’s a brand that has grown just because of customers' love,” adding, “There is a great roadmap ahead and we just need to follow step by step and execute, be loyal to the customers and to the stakeholders.”

On the business outlook, the company expects steady growth in the coming year. “We expect 10 per cent topline growth over the last year,” he said.

At the same time, the brand is also focusing on improving profitability by strengthening its product mix and pricing strategy. “We are also focusing on the bottom line by maximising the product portfolio and increasing the ASP of the products. So we are focusing more on increasing the bottom line than increasing the top line,” he said.

Beyond its physical store expansion, Kiaasa Retail is also exploring growth opportunities in online sales and export markets. “That's another part where we will be focusing on the MBOs part. Online, we have just started, and we have not yet done much on this part. So there are many other verticals that we can focus on,” he said.

At present, around 90 percent of Kiaasa Retail’s outlets operate under the company-owned, company-operated (COCO) model.

Forever 52, a rapidly expanding professional makeup brand under the Future Makeup India portfolio, has announced the launch of four new Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs) and kiosks across Central and Western India. The newly opened stores are located at Zora Mall in Raipur (Chhattisgarh), DB City Mall in Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), DB City Mall in Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh), and City Centre Mall in Nashik (Maharashtra). With these additions, the brand’s retail footprint has grown to 41 stores across the country.

This expansion aligns with Forever 52’s ambitious growth strategy. The brand aims to scale its presence to 100 stores across India by the end of 2026 while targeting sales of Rs 400 crore for the financial year 2026–27.

Established in Dubai in 2008 by Hozefa Bohra, Zoeb Bohra and Shabbir Bohra, Forever 52 was created with a clear vision — professional-grade makeup that delivers high performance while remaining affordable. Over the years, the brand steadily expanded across the Middle East and into more than 40 countries before making its entry into the Indian market in 2018 under the leadership of Rajat Aggarwal, Managing Director.

India’s beauty market offered a strong opportunity for the brand, driven by a growing network of independent makeup artists, bridal professionals and academy-trained experts who were seeking reliable, high-performance products at accessible price points. Forever 52 adopted a professional-first strategy, focusing on distribution within MUA communities, bridal markets and training academies. Strong word-of-mouth, particularly in Delhi’s bridal market, helped the brand establish a solid foundation for organic growth.

Today, Forever 52’s popular products — including full-coverage foundations, camouflage palettes, complete coverage concealers and long-lasting fixing sprays — have become trusted essentials for makeup artists working on demanding assignments such as weddings, editorial shoots and long-format events. The consistent performance of these products has helped the brand build lasting customer loyalty.

In addition to its physical retail expansion, the brand has developed a strong omnichannel presence across modern trade, general trade, major e-commerce platforms, and its own D2C website and mobile app. The new EBOs are expected to further strengthen Forever 52’s offline retail strategy by bringing the brand closer to consumers in Tier I and Tier II markets, which the company considers crucial for its next phase of growth.

From its beginnings in Dubai to its growing footprint across India, Forever 52 continues to stay true to its founding belief: makeup should perform consistently — wherever it's used, whoever it's for.

Michael Kors has expanded its travel retail presence in India with the launch of a new store at Navi Mumbai International Airport, reinforcing its footprint in one of the country’s most strategically significant aviation gateways. The opening represents a key step in making the globally admired luxury label more accessible to India’s increasingly experience-driven travelers.

The move aligns with the brand’s focus on premium travel retail hubs, giving international passengers access to Michael Kors’ signature blend of modern glamour, jet-set sophistication, and practical luxury. The store features a curated assortment of handbags, accessories, and lifestyle products that embody the brand’s timeless yet contemporary design language.

In India, Michael Kors operates under the luxury portfolio of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), which continues to elevate the country’s premium retail ecosystem by bringing globally renowned fashion and lifestyle brands to high-impact destinations. The launch at Navi Mumbai International Airport underscores RBL’s strategy of strengthening luxury retail within travel-centric environments that combine accessibility, aspiration, and global standards.

Established in 1981, Michael Kors has evolved into a globally recognized luxury fashion house, celebrated for its refined jet-set aesthetic across accessories, ready-to-wear, footwear, watches, and fragrances. Rooted in effortless elegance and modern functionality, the brand enjoys strong global appeal among style-conscious consumers seeking polished yet wearable luxury.

The new airport store reflects Michael Kors’ strategy of connecting with customers at key travel touchpoints, delivering a seamless and elevated shopping experience tailored to today’s fast-moving flyers. As international travel continues its upward trajectory, the brand’s presence at Navi Mumbai International Airport positions it to engage both global and domestic travellers seeking premium fashion within transit environments.

Apple has launched its second retail store in Mumbai and the sixth in India. Situated at Sky City Mall, the new outlet expands Apple’s retail presence in one of Mumbai’s rapidly developing growth corridors. The store will offer Apple’s complete range of products and services, catering to a wide spectrum of customers — from first-time buyers to creators and small businesses — while serving as a space for community engagement and creativity.

“We’re thrilled to open Apple Borivali, and bring the best of Apple to life for even more customers in India,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Retail and People. “We’re so inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm of communities across India, and our dedicated team members are excited to welcome and connect with customers in this extraordinary new store, our second in Mumbai."

At Apple Borivali, visitors can discover and purchase the company’s latest product portfolio, including the iPhone 17 family, iPhone Air, Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch Series 11, as well as iPad and Mac models powered by the M5 chip. A team of more than 70 employees will provide personalized assistance — from setting up new devices and transitioning to iOS, to exploring Mac and iPad features or receiving technical support for existing Apple products.

The store will also offer a range of retail services designed to simplify the upgrade process, including Apple Trade In, flexible financing options, secure data transfer, and Personal Setup support. For online shoppers, Apple Pickup enables convenient in-store collection of purchases. In addition, dedicated Business Team specialists will assist organisations with customised solutions, device deployment, and growth-focused tools. Customers can also explore Apple’s digital services such as Apple Music and Apple TV through interactive displays within the store.

In line with Apple’s global sustainability commitments, Apple Borivali operates on 100 percent renewable energy and is carbon neutral.