Recognized for its reasonably priced apparel and footwear, Primark, a 55-year-old company, has been evaluating the Indian market for a number of years and may partner with Reliance through a joint venture or licensing arrangement, according to informed sources.
An Economic Times report states that Reliance Industries is in early talks to bring the British fashion retailer Primark to the Indian market. The statement also stated that Reliance would be positioned against rivals like Shoppers Stop’s new value format InTune, Max from Landmark Group, and Tata’s Zudio.
Primark brand and Reliance.
A joint venture or licensing agreement could be the means of cooperation between the 55-year-old Primark brand and Reliance, which is well-known for its reasonably priced apparel and shoes. Two sources told the newspaper that the company has been evaluating the Indian market for a number of years.
The report also stated that because of the brand’s big box format and not like other international retailers that usually give malls priority, the majority of the stores in India are anticipated to be located on the high street.
Primark’s International Triumph.
Aside from two years when Covid was a factor, Primark has seen notable growth in its worldwide revenue in recent times. Compared to rivals like H&M and Uniqlo, the brand offers merchandise at even lower costs.
Although Primark primarily sources from China, India has the second-highest number of factories in the company’s supply chain, indicating the brand’s dedication to nearshoring.
According to Devangshu Dutta, founder of retail consulting firm Third Eyesight, Reliance, being the biggest retailer in India with numerous international brand partnerships, could offer Primark a significant advantage through its real estate and operational synergies.
The Expansion Plans and Market Dynamics.
Value brands are seeing an expansion in opportunities due to India’s consumption structure, which was previously skewed towards a small group of wealthier consumers, according to experts. By the end of 2026, Primark—owned by Associated British Foods—hopes to have 530 locations worldwide. At the moment, it has over 400 locations.
In India, Reliance directly competes with fast-fashion retailers like Zara and H&M thanks to its impressive portfolio of over 18,774 stores, which includes Trends and the recently opened Yousta.
Questions were not answered by RIL. While expressing the company’s willingness to explore new prospects, a Primark representative remained silent regarding the plans for India.