Franchise News: Levi’s Opens 500th Store in India with Bengaluru ICON Outlet

The Souled Store has opened a new retail outlet at Pooja Plazzio in Zirakpur, expanding its physical store presence in the region. The store offers the brand's range of pop-culture merchandise, licensed products and casual fashion apparel.

The product range includes merchandise inspired by superheroes, anime, films and popular entertainment franchises. The store brings together apparel and accessories designed around entertainment properties and pop-culture themes. The opening adds another physical retail location to The Souled Store's network, giving customers in Zirakpur access to its collections through an offline shopping format.

The brand caters to consumers interested in character merchandise, graphic apparel and licensed pop-culture products. Its retail model combines these categories with casual fashion, targeting shoppers who want to express their interests through clothing and accessories. The new outlet at Pooja Plazzio provides a local shopping destination for customers looking for fandom-based merchandise and pop-culture fashion in Zirakpur.

PureSil Paints, the mineral-based architectural coatings brand from Relic Coatings LLP, plans to establish 100 distribution points across major metropolitan cities and state capitals in India over the next 12 months. The expansion is aimed at increasing its market reach and building a distribution network for its domestically developed architectural coatings.

The company has appointed channel partners in Nagpur, Cuttack, Pune, Kolkata, Raipur and Vadodara as part of the first phase of its expansion. Since its commercial rollout in August 2026, PureSil Paints has focused on product trials, customer engagement, distributor appointments and institutional project opportunities.

The company describes its products as 100 percent Made in India, using indigenous technology and locally sourced raw materials. It said this approach keeps its dependence on imported raw materials negligible while supporting domestic manufacturing and supply chain development. PureSil Paints uses mineral silicate technology, incorporating a rice husk ash-based silicate binder and proprietary silicification technology. Its formulations use rice husk ash and fly ash, allowing agricultural and industrial by-products to be utilised in construction materials.

The product range features zero-VOC formulations and breathable coating technology. These coatings allow moisture vapour to pass through the surface, helping walls release trapped moisture. The company is positioning its mineral-based paints as an alternative for residential, commercial and other construction projects seeking coatings with lower environmental impact.

The range is available in multiple colours and stock-keeping units (SKUs) to meet different architectural requirements across residential and commercial applications. The architectural paints and coatings industry is seeing increased interest in products that reduce environmental impact. Low-VOC and zero-VOC formulations, along with construction materials that use resources more efficiently, are becoming areas of focus for manufacturers and buyers.

PureSil Paints aims to address this demand through its mineral-based coating range and locally developed manufacturing technology. Its target customer segments include residential and commercial real estate, institutional buildings, urban infrastructure and industrial establishments.

Dr Nikhil Dhote, Founder and Chief Technologist of PureSil Paints said, “We believe the future of the coatings industry lies in combining performance, sustainability and indigenous innovation. Our focus is to build a strong pan-India presence while offering an alternative that addresses evolving environmental expectations and India's growing emphasis on self-reliance.”

PureSil Paints plans to expand its distribution network based on market demand, with an emphasis on appointing capable channel partners and strengthening its operations in new markets.

Its target of 100 distribution points over the next 12 months will extend its reach across major cities and state capitals. The company will focus on developing its presence in construction and infrastructure markets while building demand for mineral-based architectural coatings. The expansion comes as manufacturers explore alternatives to conventional paint formulations and increase their focus on locally sourced materials and sustainable construction products.

Chapter2Drip, the streetwear brand founded by Rhea Chakraborty and Showik Chakraborty, has opened its first store in Dehradun at Mall of Dehradun on October 21, 2026. Spanning 700 sq ft, the new outlet expands the brand's offline retail presence to another Indian city.

The Dehradun store adds to Chapter2Drip's existing network of two stores in Mumbai and one in Delhi. The brand offers contemporary streetwear, everyday apparel and casual clothing for men, women and children, with Gen Z and millennials forming its core customer base. The new outlet gives consumers in Dehradun direct access to the brand's apparel collections.

It also features Chapter2Drip's latest LAYERS collection alongside its broader range of streetwear and everyday clothing. Influencers and members of the brand's community attended the store opening and shared updates from the event on social media.

Rhea Chakraborty, Co-Founder of Chapter2Drip said, “As Chapter2Drip continues to grow, we’re excited to bring the brand to new cities and connect with more people through our stores. For us, fashion is a way of expressing who you are and where you are in life. Expanding into Dehradun is another step in making Chapter2Drip accessible to a wider community.”

Showik Chakraborty, Co-Founder of Chapter2Drip added, “Building Chapter2Drip has been about creating a streetwear brand that feels relevant to how people approach fashion and self-expression today. With our first store in Dehradun, we’re continuing to expand our retail presence while bringing our collections closer to consumers across different parts of the country.”

The Dehradun opening marks the brand's latest step in expanding its physical retail network beyond its existing markets. By adding stores in new cities, Chapter2Drip is seeking to increase access to its collections and build a wider customer base across India. The company's current retail footprint includes four stores across Mumbai, Delhi and Dehradun, as it continues to develop its presence in India's streetwear and casual fashion market.

PNGS Reva Diamond Jewellery Limited reported a 35.01 percent year-on-year increase in sales during the combined Navratri and Dussehra festive period of FY2026-27, supported by demand for natural diamond jewellery in India. The company recorded revenue of Rs 12.19 crore during Dussehra FY2026-27, excluding gold sales, compared with Rs 7.50 crore in the corresponding period last year. This marked a year-on-year growth of 62.40 percent.

For the combined Navratri and Dussehra period, PNGS Reva Diamond Jewellery reported sales of Rs 38.53 crore, up 35.01 percent from the previous year. The performance reflects the company's festive sales momentum in the natural diamond jewellery segment. The company, backed by the P. N. Gadgil and Sons Group, is focused on expanding access to certified natural diamond jewellery and strengthening its presence in India's organised jewellery retail market.

PNGS Reva Diamond Jewellery recently opened a company-owned and company-operated (COCO) store in Jaipur, extending its retail presence beyond its established markets in Western India. With the new store, the company's retail network has grown to 39 locations. This includes five exclusive brand outlets (EBOs) and company-owned and company-operated stores, alongside 34 shop-in-shop (SIS) locations.

The company plans to expand its presence across key markets, with a focus on the COCO model as part of its retail expansion strategy. The approach is intended to support the development of its store network as it enters additional markets.

Drawing on the jewellery expertise and sourcing capabilities of the P. N. Gadgil and Sons Group, PNGS Reva aims to grow its business in the natural diamond jewellery category through an expanding retail network and a focus on certified diamond products. The company's festive sales growth and entry into Jaipur mark two developments in its efforts to expand its presence in India's diamond jewellery retail market.

Skechers has expanded its retail presence in Karnataka with the opening of a new store in Chikmagalur. The store adds to the footwear brand's offline retail network in India, giving customers in the city access to its range of footwear and related products.

The new outlet is part of Skechers' physical retail presence, as footwear brands continue to reach consumers in cities beyond major metropolitan markets. The store opening extends the brand's reach in Chikmagalur, where customers can visit the outlet to explore its footwear collection and find products suited to their preferences.

The company has not disclosed the store's size, investment or details of its product range in the announcement.

SocksXpress! has opened a new store at Pacific Mall, Jaipur, strengthening its footprint in the region.

Commenting on the store launch, the company shared: ‘‘It is our first store in the city and another milestone in our growing retail journey.The store brings together the many worlds of SocksXpress! - everyday favourites, statement pairs, fandom-led collections, elevated essentials and gifting picks - creating a space where there is always something new to discover.’’

The post adds, ‘‘SocksXpress! is where people can experience the brand up close, explore different collections, discover a fandom they connect with, find a pair that feels like them or simply walk in and leave with something unexpected. Every new store also gives us the opportunity to bring SocksXpress! to a new audience and become part of the way people in that city discover, style and experience the brand.’’

Jaipur is an exciting addition to the brand’s  journey. A city with a strong identity, a distinct visual culture and its own sense of style.

SocksXpress! (formerly known as Balenzia) is an Indian fashion and apparel brand specializing in vibrant, high-quality socks and lifestyle accessories. Founded in 2007 as Balenzia (part of the Jagran Group), the brand officially rebranded to SocksXpress! on November 16, 2024, to focus more heavily on bold self-expression and modern identity.

Headquartered in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, the brand has physical retail presence across various malls and airports in India, including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Gwalior, and Kanpur. The socks band also features limited-run wearable art collaborations with popular illustrators and creators like Alicia Souza, Neha Doodles, and Doodle Mapuls, and carries licensed pop-culture and fandom merchandise such as Marvel, Disney, and Warner Bros.

Muscle & Strength India has opened a new retail store in Koramangala, Bengaluru, Karnataka, as the fitness supplement retailer looks to expand its presence in South India. The store was inaugurated by bodybuilder Syed Israr and fitness model and influencer Mohmmad Iqbal.

The expansion comes amid growing interest in fitness, sports nutrition and wellness products. Bengaluru, with its active fitness community and health-conscious consumers, is an important market for the retailer as it seeks to reach more customers through its physical stores.

Muscle & Strength India operates across multiple cities in the country, offering more than 1,000 fitness supplement and nutrition products from various international brands. Its portfolio includes proteins, vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements used for fitness, athletic performance and general wellness.

Praveen Chirania, Founder of Muscle & Strength India, said, “We are excited to expand our presence while building closer connections with our customers, and we will continue to expand our footprint in newer cities.”

He added that the company was witnessing demand beyond major metropolitan areas, where access to genuine and competitively priced supplements remained a challenge. Chirania also stressed the importance of purchasing supplements from authorised dealers to avoid counterfeit products.

The company plans to strengthen its retail network as it looks to serve consumers across different markets. Its expansion strategy also reflects the growing need for accessible retail outlets where customers can explore nutrition products and seek guidance based on their requirements.

Vikram Yesudas, franchise owner of the Bengaluru store, said the outlet would cater to gym-goers, sports enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers.

“We aim to help customers make informed choices based on their individual fitness and nutritional requirements,” Yesudas said.

Muscle & Strength India offers products across multiple nutrition categories and has exclusive distribution partnerships with several global nutrition brands. With its latest Bengaluru outlet, the retailer is looking to strengthen its regional presence while addressing consumer demand for genuine sports nutrition products.

Japanese furniture and home furnishings retailer NITORI has opened its second store in India at Sky City Mall in Borivali, Mumbai, expanding its presence in the Indian home and lifestyle retail market ahead of the festive season. Located on the mall’s Lower Ground Floor, the new outlet marks NITORI’s second store in the country since its India debut in Mumbai in December 2024.

The opening also takes the NITORI Group’s global store count to 1,093. The company plans to expand its product range for Indian consumers by introducing new products and reviewing prices on an ongoing basis. The move forms part of its broader strategy to increase its international retail presence.

Toshiyuki Shirai, COO, Representative Director and President of NITORI said, “We are pleased to open our second store in India at Sky City Mall, marking another important step in our journey in the Indian market. India is an important market for NITORI, and we see significant potential to bring our approach to furniture and home furnishings to more customers here. With our focus on design, functionality, and value, we look forward to offering products that make everyday living more comfortable and enjoyable. We are grateful for the warm response we have received in India and look forward to continuing to grow our presence in the country.”

Tanu Prasad, CEO - Malls at Oberoi Realty said, “We are pleased to welcome NITORI to Sky City Mall. We are delighted to be part of NITORI's India journey as it opens its second store in the country at Sky City Mall. With its distinctive Japanese design philosophy, functional approach, and accessible pricing, the brand brings an interesting new dimension to our home and lifestyle offering. Its arrival ahead of the festive season is particularly timely, as consumers look to refresh their homes and explore new ideas for everyday living."

Sky City Mall, developed by Oberoi Realty, spans one million sq ft and houses retail, dining, and entertainment outlets. The mall holds LEED Gold certification from the US Green Building Council and is connected to the metro network and the Western Express Highway. It also provides parking space for 1,900 vehicles.

NITORI’s latest store opening adds to the range of international home furnishing brands available to Indian consumers. Its plans to introduce additional products and review pricing indicate a focus on adapting its retail offering as it builds its presence in the Indian market.

Fashion retailer Snitch has expanded its retail presence in North East India with the opening of its second store in the region, marking its entry into Tripura. The expansion adds another location to the Bengaluru-based fashion brand’s offline retail network as it continues to increase its physical presence across India. The new store reflects the company’s efforts to reach consumers in emerging retail markets and expand beyond its existing locations.

The store opening involved planning and coordination across multiple teams, from initial preparations to execution. The milestone also highlights the operational work involved in expanding a retail network across different regions.

Snitch has been expanding its offline presence alongside its digital business, with physical stores providing customers with an opportunity to explore its fashion collections in person. Its entry into Tripura adds to the brand’s regional footprint and creates another customer touchpoint in the North East.

The latest store opening comes as fashion retailers continue to explore opportunities in markets beyond major metropolitan cities. Growing retail infrastructure and changing consumer preferences have encouraged brands to consider new locations as part of their expansion strategies.

With its second store in North East India now operational, Snitch is continuing to build its physical retail network across the country. The company's expansion in Tripura marks another step in its efforts to establish a presence in additional regional markets.

U.S. Polo Assn. has opened a 1,700 sq ft store in Puducherry, marking the brand's first New Identity store in the city. The opening expands the American casualwear brand's retail presence in South India and introduces its updated store format to the local market. The store offers menswear and footwear from the brand's Autumn-Winter 2026 collection, including Varsity, Indigo, Corduroy, Denims and Shirts.

The assortment covers seasonal apparel and footwear designed around the brand's sport-inspired identity. A key feature of the new store is a dedicated Shirt Bar that brings together the brand's shirt collection in one area. The display is intended to make it easier for shoppers to browse different styles within the category.

The store also features a Resort Wear Wall on the first floor, with linen shirts, shorts, and caps. The dedicated section focuses on holiday and resort clothing, reflecting Puducherry's association with leisure travel. Interactive elements have also been planned as part of the in-store experience. The opening event was attended by Tamil entertainment personalities, including actress Ramya Ranganathan and Aaryan, along with other influencers. Their participation introduced the new store to local audiences as U.S. Polo Assn. expanded its presence in the city.

Amitabh Suri, Chief Executive Officer of U.S. Polo Assn India said, “Puducherry is a distinctive market with a strong connection to leisure, travel and contemporary lifestyle, making it an exciting market for us to introduce our New Identity store format. With the introduction of the Shirt Bar and our Resort Wear Wall, we are bringing new retail experiences that are designed to make the store more engaging and relevant to how consumers shop today. The launch also reflects our continued focus on strengthening our presence across South India while creating spaces that bring together the heritage of U.S. Polo Assn. with a more contemporary retail experience.”

The Puducherry outlet adds to U.S. Polo Assn.'s retail network in India as the brand introduces updated store formats and dedicated product displays. The opening also expands its access to consumers in the region through a physical store offering apparel and footwear across seasonal collections.

Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited's fashion brand Pantaloons has opened a new store in Mota Varachha, Surat, expanding its retail presence in Gujarat. The store opening adds to Pantaloons' physical retail network in the state, giving shoppers in the Mota Varachha area access to the brand's apparel and fashion collections.

The expansion reflects the continued presence of organised fashion retailers in Surat, a key market for clothing and lifestyle shopping. With the new outlet, Pantaloons strengthens its reach in the Surat market as fashion retailers continue to serve customers through physical stores alongside their online channels.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds has reopened its expanded showroom on Ambedkar Road in New Gandhi Nagar, Ghaziabad, as the jewellery retailer strengthens its presence in the Delhi NCR market ahead of the festive season. Spread across more than 4,200 sq ft, the showroom offers gold and diamond jewellery, including bridal collections.

The showroom was inaugurated by Sunita Dayal, Mayor of Ghaziabad, along with Jishad N.K., Regional Head for North; Anees K.P., Zonal Head; and Yedu Krishnan, Deputy Showroom Head, in the presence of customers and other guests.

M. P. Ahammad, Chairman of Malabar Group said, “Ghaziabad is an important market for us, with customers who value quality, design, and trust when choosing jewellery. The relaunch of our expanded showroom reflects our continued commitment to this market and our focus on strengthening our presence in the region. With a wider selection of jewellery, including bridal collections, we aim to cater to the evolving preferences of our customers while building on the trust and relationships we have established over the years.”

The showroom reopening coincides with the company's festive jewellery offers, valid from October 9 to November 15, 2026. Customers can explore the Manahaari yellow gold collection, available in 18K and 22K. The offers include discounts of up to 30 percent on making charges for gold, uncut and gemstone jewellery, and up to 30 percent off the value of diamond jewellery. The company is also offering zero deduction on old gold exchanges. Under its advance booking scheme, customers can reserve jewellery for Dhanteras by paying 10 percent of the purchase value upfront and receive a complimentary silver coin, subject to applicable terms and conditions.

Malabar Gold and Diamonds said the expanded showroom follows its focus on transparent pricing and responsible jewellery retailing. All its gold jewellery is BIS hallmarked with a Hallmark Unique Identification (HUID) number, while its diamond jewellery is tested and certified. Under its Malabar Promises programme, the company offers 100 percent value on gold and diamond exchanges, transparent pricing, lifetime free maintenance and responsibly sourced products.

The showroom expansion adds to Malabar Gold and Diamonds' retail presence in Ghaziabad and provides customers with access to its gold, diamond and bridal jewellery collections ahead of Dhanteras and Diwali.

Reliance Retail's premium fashion and lifestyle brand AZORTE has expanded its presence in Rajasthan with the opening of a 11,760 sq ft store at Pacific Mall in Jaipur. The outlet is the brand's 47th store in India, as it continues to expand its physical retail network in the country's fashion market. Actor Radhika Madan inaugurated the new store and interacted with shoppers. The opening also featured a fashion show showcasing AZORTE's latest collection.

Located on the ground floor of Pacific Mall in Mansarovar, the store offers apparel and accessories across women's wear, men's wear and kidswear. Its product range includes the brand's Fall Edit and Festive Collection, along with exclusive Hello Kitty and NBA collections.

The store's opening comes as fashion retailers continue to expand their presence in shopping malls and adopt technology to improve in-store shopping and product discovery. The Pacific Mall outlet incorporates several technology-based features designed to support product discovery and the shopping process. These include smart trial rooms that provide contextual styling recommendations, interactive digital screens to help customers explore the wider product assortment, and RFID and QR code technology for inventory management and product discovery.

The store also features self check-in and check-out counters intended to simplify the shopping process. AZORTE's format combines fashion retail with digital tools designed to help customers browse products, access additional assortment options and complete purchases. AZORTE is scheduled to open its second Jaipur store at PinkWalk Mall on October 25, 2026. Spanning 9,508 sq ft, the outlet will be located on a single ground floor and will become the brand's 48th store nationally. The upcoming store will offer AZORTE's fashion and lifestyle collections, extending its presence to another retail destination in Jaipur.

The two store openings mark the brand's continued expansion in Rajasthan. By establishing outlets at Pacific Mall and PinkWalk Mall, AZORTE is increasing its access to shoppers across the city's organised retail market. The Jaipur expansion adds to AZORTE's national store network as the brand develops its presence in premium fashion and lifestyle retail. Its stores combine apparel and accessories with technology-enabled features intended to support the in-store shopping experience.

The addition of the PinkWalk Mall outlet will take AZORTE's national store count to 48, according to the company's announcement. The expansion also reflects the continued role of shopping malls in fashion retail, with brands using physical outlets to reach customers, showcase new collections and offer access to products across multiple categories.

Sunglass Hut has opened a new store at Bhartiya Mall in Bengaluru, strengthening the brand's retail footprint in the region.

Commenting on the new store launch, Rethun M, Head Retail Leasing - Bhartiya Mall said, ''We are thrilled to welcome the global eyewear leader, Sunglass Hut, to our growing retail family! From iconic luxury labels and high-fashion statement pieces to cutting-edge performance shades, Sunglass Hut brings you the ultimate collection of designer eyewear.''

Sunglass Hut is a premier, global specialty retailer that offers a massive selection of high-quality fashion and performance sunglasses. Founded in 1971 as a single mall kiosk in Miami, Florida, the brand has grown into a dominant force in eyewear sector. The brand has a  global footprint across 20 countries, operating at over 3,000 retail locations,including the US, the UK, Australia, South Africa, and other countries.

The brand entered the Indian market in December 2008, through a franchise agreement signedd between its parent company, the Italian eyewear giant Luxottica Group SpA, and the New Delhi-based real estate developer DLF Brands Ltd.The brand opend its first retail store in Mumbai. In March 2022,  Reliance Brands Limited (RBL) acquires the entire franchisee rights from DLF Brand. The brand currrently has a network of 85 brick-and-mortar stores spread across prime retail corridors in India, including IGI Airport Terminal and Jio World Plaza.

According to a market report, the Indian eyewear retail market is valued at approximately USD 11.83 billion in 2026 and expected to grow at USD 20.86 billion in 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.66% during 2026-2034. The maket is actively transitioning from an unorganized sector into a modern, omnichannel retail category. Some of the rominent eyewear retail chain are Lenskart and Titan Eye Plus. Rising vision disorders, growing fashion consciousness, e-commerce expansion, and digital eye strain awareness are the primary forces driving the growth of the market. 

Chennai-based consumer electronics retailer Sathya Agencies has expanded its presence in India by adding 54 showrooms in Karnataka through its acquisition of Unilet Appliances Pvt Ltd. The move strengthens its regional store network as the company prepares for the Dussehra and Diwali festive sales season.

The acquisition gives Sathya Agencies access to an established consumer durables and electronics retail network in Karnataka, along with local market knowledge. The company is looking to build its presence in the state as demand for televisions, air conditioners, washing machines and other household appliances typically rises during the festive period.

As of January 31, 2026, Sathya Agencies operated 427 stores across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry. The network includes consumer electronics outlets and mobile retail stores, extending the company's reach across South India.

The acquisition marks an important step in Sathya Agencies' expansion in Karnataka, where Unilet's existing showroom network provides an established retail presence. The company is preparing for its first major Dussehra and Diwali festive season in the state since entering the market. The expansion comes as electronics retailers compete for consumer spending during the festive period, when purchases of home appliances, televisions and other consumer electronics often gain momentum.

Sathya Agencies also has commercial relationships with more than 150 domestic and international original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and authorised distributors. Its product portfolio includes air conditioners, televisions, washing machines, smartphones, information technology products and small kitchen appliances.

Sathya Agencies is also preparing for a proposed Rs 600 crore initial public offering (IPO). The company filed its draft red herring prospectus in March 2026 and received final observations from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on June 25, 2026.

The proposed IPO comprises a fresh issue of up to Rs 300 crore and an offer for sale of up to Rs 300 crore by promoter-selling shareholders. According to the company's disclosures, proceeds from the fresh issue are intended to support business growth, repay or prepay certain borrowings, fund part of the consideration for the Unilet acquisition and meet general corporate expenses.

The acquisition adds to Sathya Agencies' physical retail footprint in South India and gives it a larger presence in Karnataka's consumer electronics market. Its ability to integrate the acquired network and build sales across the region will be important as the company pursues further growth.

KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery has opened its largest showroom in India at Janpath, Bhubaneswar, investing approximately Rs 24 crore in the new retail outlet. Spread across 4,056 sq ft over two levels, the showroom marks another step in the brand’s expansion across India’s organised jewellery retail market. The inauguration was attended by Bollywood actress Sonal Chauhan and Ghanshyam Dholakia, Founder of Hari Krishna Group and KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery.

With the new outlet, KISNA has increased its exclusive showroom count in Odisha to nine. The eastern region is the brand’s second-largest contributor to overall business, according to the company. KISNA currently operates 171 exclusive showrooms across India and aims to expand its network to 200 stores by the end of 2026, covering metropolitan areas as well as Tier-II and Tier-III markets.

Located at Plot No. 662(B), opposite the Regional PF Office on Janpath Road, the showroom houses the brand’s diamond and gold jewellery collections. The product range includes rings, earrings, pendants, mangalsutras, necklaces, bangles and bracelets, catering to everyday wear, festive occasions, gifting and weddings. The store’s opening reflects KISNA’s focus on expanding its physical retail presence and reaching customers in regional markets. The company is also relying on its franchise-led expansion model to grow its showroom network.

Ghanshyam Dholakia, Founder and Managing Director of Hari Krishna Exports and KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery said, “The opening of our largest showroom in India at Bhubaneswar reflects our confidence in Odisha's growth potential and the increasing demand for organised jewellery retail. With East India emerging as a significant contributor to our business, we see strong opportunities to deepen our presence in the region. The confidence of our franchise partners and the strength of our FOFO model enable us to bring quality diamond and gold jewellery closer to customers while delivering a consistent retail experience.”

KISNA follows a FOFO, or franchise-owned, franchise-operated, model for its retail network. The approach allows franchise partners to operate stores as the brand expands into additional markets.

Sonal Chauhan, who attended the inauguration said, “Jewellery is such an important part of our celebrations, especially during the festive season, when every piece carries a special meaning. I love how KISNA brings together timeless craftsmanship and contemporary designs to suit different styles and occasions. It was wonderful to inaugurate the brand's largest showroom in India here in Bhubaneswar and celebrate this milestone with the people of Odisha.”

The Bhubaneswar showroom opening comes ahead of the festive and wedding shopping season, including Durga Puja, Dhanteras and Diwali. The company is offering several purchase schemes to customers during this period.

Under its Gold Rate Protection Plan, customers can book jewellery by paying a 25 percent advance and benefit from the lower gold rate applicable at the time of booking or billing. The brand also offers old gold exchange and buyback options. In addition, customers can participate in KISNA’s Grand Festive Lucky Draw, which offers a chance to win more than 800 vehicles, including cars and two-wheelers.

The new showroom adds to KISNA’s retail presence in eastern India as the company works towards its target of 200 exclusive stores by the end of 2026. Its expansion strategy centres on strengthening its presence in existing markets while entering additional metropolitan, Tier-II and Tier-III cities. The company’s progress towards this target will depend on its ability to expand its franchise network and attract customers across different regional jewellery markets.

The 18,000 sq ft store at Lake Shore introduces UNIQLO’s LifeWear apparel range for men, women and children to customers in Thane. Japanese apparel retailer UNIQLO has opened a new store at Lake Shore in Thane, marking its entry into the city. The opening expands the brand’s presence in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) as it continues to grow its retail network in India.

Spread across approximately 18,000 sq ft, the new UNIQLO store offers its LifeWear collection for men, women and children. The outlet features the brand’s apparel range, designed around everyday clothing requirements, with a store layout intended to help customers browse its product categories. Thane’s growing urban population and diverse consumer base make it a new market for the retailer as it expands beyond its existing locations in the Mumbai region.

Kenji Inoue, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of UNIQLO India said, "We are pleased to open our new store at Lake Shore, Thane, marking another important step in UNIQLO's continued growth across India. As a rapidly growing part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Thane is an important market for us, and we are excited to introduce LifeWear to more customers in the city. We look forward to becoming part of the local community and providing high-quality, functional apparel that enriches everyday life while meeting the evolving needs of customers in the region."

The store opening included promotional offers for customers. The first 200 customers in the queue received a UNIQLO Round Mini Shoulder Bag and Third Wave Coffee. On October 16, customers shopping for Rs 6,000 or more were also eligible to receive an exclusive tote bag. The outlet features UNIQLO’s 2026 Fall/Winter collection, including casual outerwear, fleece, knitwear, HEATTECH and PUFFTECH. The range focuses on seasonal clothing for changing weather conditions and everyday use.

With its entry into Thane, UNIQLO is extending its reach within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and making its LifeWear collection available to customers in another urban market. Customers can explore the brand’s products through its stores, website and UNIQLO India official app.

The German-engineered sleep brand plans to expand across metro and Tier-I cities through a franchise-led retail model, targeting India’s premium mattress and sleep-solutions market. Domicil Sleep, the sleep and wellness brand owned by HTL International, plans to establish around 50 experience stores across India over the next three years. The expansion aims to strengthen its presence in the premium mattress and sleep-solutions market, focusing on major metropolitan areas and Tier-I cities.

The brand currently operates experience stores in Bengaluru and Chennai. Its expansion strategy will primarily follow a franchise-led model, supported by company-owned and company-operated outlets. The planned network expansion is expected to increase its physical retail presence and bring its product range to more consumers across key Indian markets.

India’s mattress market is estimated at around US$3 billion and is projected to grow by approximately 8-9 percent annually over the next three to five years. The premium mattress and sleep-solutions segment accounts for an estimated 20 percent of the market, supported by growing consumer interest in sleep quality, comfort and wellness. Domicil Sleep sees further opportunities in a market where consumers largely associate sleep-related purchases with mattresses rather than a broader set of products designed to improve comfort and functionality. The company plans to address this gap by positioning its offerings around an integrated bedroom and sleep experience.

The brand also sees room for growth in the organised premium mattress market, which sits between mass-market products and luxury offerings. Its retail strategy focuses on bringing together mattresses, beds, pillows, recliners and other bedroom furniture to offer consumers a wider range of sleep-related products under one roof.

“India’s sleep category is at an interesting inflection point, with consumers becoming increasingly conscious of how the quality of their sleep influences their overall lifestyle. But the category continues to be approached largely through the lens of the mattress. At Domicil Sleep, we see an opportunity to broaden that perspective by bringing together the mattress, bed, pillow, recliner and other elements of the bedroom as part of one integrated sleep solution. We are currently the only brand in this category approaching sleep as a complete solution rather than as a single-product purchase,” said Manoj Nair, Country Head – India, Middle East AND Africa, HTL Group.

The brand’s existing experience stores in Bengaluru and Chennai reflect this approach. The outlets display premium mattresses alongside upholstered beds, ergonomic pillows, bedroom recliners and lounge furniture. The format allows customers to assess different products within a bedroom setting before making purchasing decisions. According to the company, customer enquiries have included questions about its mattress technologies and the experience-store format. Domicil Sleep has also reported an increase in referral-led customers, indicating that recommendations from existing customers are contributing to interest in the brand.

Alongside its retail expansion, Domicil Sleep plans to explore additional products, comfort technologies and innovations in response to changing consumer preferences. The company expects demand for personalised comfort and functional sleep products to influence the category’s development.

As it expands across India, the brand plans to combine its German engineering heritage with products suited to the needs of Indian consumers. Its proposed 50-store network will be a key part of its strategy to increase market reach and strengthen its position in the organised premium mattress and sleep-solutions segment.

Bata India has expanded its retail presence with the opening of a new footwear store in Halehalli. The new outlet adds to the company's retail network as it continues to reach customers across local markets.

The store will offer customers access to Bata's footwear range, with products catering to different needs and preferences. The expansion supports the brand's focus on improving retail accessibility and serving consumers through its physical store network.

The Halehalli opening is part of Bata's ongoing retail operations in India, where the company serves customers through a network of stores offering footwear across multiple categories.

Carrefour has opened its second store in India at ANSA City Centre in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, as Apparel Group continues to expand the international retailer's presence in the country. The new store follows the opening of Carrefour's first flagship outlet at H&S Mall (Boulevard Walk) in Greater Noida West. The expansion marks another step in the partnership between Apparel Group and Carrefour to establish the retailer in India's organised grocery and supermarket market.

Spread across 2,000 square meters, the Ghaziabad store offers a range of everyday products, including fresh produce, bakery items, groceries, household essentials and personal care products. The assortment combines international brands with locally sourced merchandise to meet Indian consumers' shopping needs.

The store opens amid changing consumption patterns in India, with urbanisation and evolving household preferences driving demand for organised retail formats. Through its partnership with Carrefour, Apparel Group is looking to combine the retailer's international experience with its own operational capabilities and understanding of the Indian market.

Beyond its expansion in the National Capital Region (NCR), the partnership aims to establish a scalable retail network across India. Apparel Group plans to extend Carrefour's presence into key domestic markets, supported by local sourcing networks, logistics infrastructure and supply chain capabilities.

Nilesh Ved, Chairman of APPCORP Holding, Owner of Apparel Group and Founder of KORA Properties said, “Carrefour’s second store in India represents another important step in our ambition to establish a strong and enduring presence in one of the world’s most promising consumer markets. The momentum following our Greater Noida launch reinforces our confidence in the opportunities ahead, as Indian consumers increasingly seek greater choice, international quality and exceptional value. Through our partnership with Carrefour, we are bringing together global retail expertise and deep local market understanding to create a platform designed for long-term scale. The Ghaziabad opening strengthens our presence across the NCR and takes us further towards our vision of making Carrefour a trusted retail destination for households across India.”

Patrick Lasfargues, Executive Director – International Partnership, Carrefour added, "The opening of our second store in India marks an important step in Carrefour’s journey in this market. Following the launch of our first flagship in Greater Noida, expanding into Ghaziabad enables us to bring our retail proposition to an even broader consumer base in the NCR. We look forward to continuing this journey and expanding our presence across India."

The company also plans to strengthen relationships with domestic suppliers, increase local sourcing and develop an integrated omnichannel retail network. Technology, logistics infrastructure and strategic partnerships are expected to support these efforts, connecting physical stores with changing consumer shopping preferences. With the Ghaziabad outlet, Carrefour has added a second location to its India network. The expansion reflects the partnership's focus on building a broader retail presence while combining international retail operations with local sourcing and market requirements.