Gap Inc. has recently announced plans to enter India through franchise-operated Gap brand stores in 2015. Gap is partnering with Arvind Lifestyle Brand Limited, a subsidiary of Arvind Limited, which is one of India’s largest textile companies. The first stores are expected to open in India’s two largest cities – Mumbai and Delhi – starting with Gap’s Summer 2015 collection for adults, kids and babies. The brand plans to open about 40 franchise-operated Gap stores in India.
Steve Sunnucks, Global President of Gap said, “India is an emerging, vibrant market and an important next step in our global expansion strategy. Gap is loved around the world for our American casual style and enduring value and quality, and we are so pleased to bring our brand and products to life for customers in India.”
As the world’s second most populated country with more than 1.2 billion people, India represents an important platform to bring American casual style to consumers around the world.
Ismail Seyis, Vice President of Gap Global Franchise said, “More than half of India’s population is under 25 and they are actively embracing fashion in today’s retail environment. We are thrilled to know that our brand awareness is very high and there is a deep affinity for Gap in India. We look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the marketplace and consumer needs to create the best possible Gap brand experience for the local consumers.”
Gap Inc. has a long-standing commitment to India having sourced products from the country for decades. India is one of the company’s top ten global sourcing locations and Gap Inc. has worked in an effort to build meaningful relationships and responsible practices with our vendor partners. In 2007, Gap Inc. launched the P.A.C.E. (Personal Advancement & Career Enhancement) workplace education program in India with one vendor in two manufacturing units. The program offers female garment workers the life skills education and technical training they need to advance at work and in life. Currently 25 of the 64 manufacturing facilities that participate in the program are based in India.
Since launching its first franchise-operated store in 2006, Gap Inc. has quickly expanded the international reach of its brands, which now includes almost 400 franchise-operated stores along with about 3,200 company-owned stores. The Gap brand now has a presence in nearly 50 countries, due to the rapid acceleration and commitment to the global expansion strategy.
