The fashion and lifestyle brand plans to open 50 stores across the country, with 10 anticipated to open by the end of the financial year.
The move comes as Guess plans to capitalise on the growing retail market in India. According to Manoj Nair, CEO, Gaurik Lifestyle – Guess International, the brand’s licensee in the country, the brand intends to expand its base to the metropolitan cities in India and then slowly penetrate into tier-II markets, connecting with top grossing malls for consumer ease.
He adds: “Then we will gradually look into approaching the micro markets and launching accessory stores in smaller cities that will carry our key categories like handbags, watches etc.”
Currently, Guess stores are company owned and company operated in India, however the company plans to have a franchisee model as it expands. This fall/winter season the company will be launching an Athleisure collection. Nair confirmed that the brand is currently importing their entire collection from Guess’ Authorised vendors however once the business in India expands, the manufacturing and sourcing will happen internally.
