Indian Retailer - "To be the first major purveyor of top class luxury for men"

"To be the first major purveyor of top class luxury for men"

BY - Sharmila Das
Sub Editor May 21, 2015 / 4 MIN READ

Stefano Ricci, an international luxury fashion and lifestyle brand, known for its perfection for leather products and fabrics, entered India with a massive plan to serve the Indian male segment with ultra luxury apparel lines. In an exclusive conversation, Jackie Manglani, President India, Stefano Ricci, reveals why the brand does not have any competitor in India yet.

What inspired you to start your maiden store in the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel? What catchment you are going to serve in that area?

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is an icon of Mumbai. It is a timeless place for luxury ever since it opened its doors more than 100 years ago. It has the atmosphere as well as the clientele who appreciate the finer things in life. We thought that it was an ideal place to begin our venture in India.

What kind of opportunity you sensed in the luxury men’s fashion in the country? Kindly elaborate.

India has a lot of luxury brands engaged in the women’s business. However, there was not a single ultra luxury brand for men’s clothing, accessories and lifestyle. We saw a great opportunityto be the first major purveyor of top class luxury for men.

What kind of price and brand proposition you are going to have in the country?

Our prices are same all over the world. The brand is positioned as a leader in its field.

Who is your target customer in the country?

The target customers are those who appreciate high quality materials and craftsmanship. Those who like to own a few but the very best things in life.

Are you planning to offer any kind of bespoke or made-to- measure products for Indian men? What would be your product offering in India?

We are offering our entire range of products in India. In fact, this store at the Taj is our biggest in this part of the world. Bespoke tailoring and interior design is an integral part of our business and we offer our complete set of services here in India.

Do you have plans to launch your products in any of the leading marketplaces in India? If yes, who are the eCommerce players and what kind of association you are going to have with them?

We have no plans to enter the eCommerce business at all.