Iconic US apparel brand Gap is partnering with Arvind Lifestyle, a subsidiary of Arvind Limited, 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.
GAP has planned to open about 40 franchise-operated Gap stores in India.
Gap said it has a long-standing commitment with India having sourced products from the country for decades and is among top ten global sourcing locations.
Since launching its first franchise-operated store in 2006, Gap has quickly expanded the global reach of its brands, which now includes almost 400 franchise-operated stores along with about 3,200 company-owned stores, in nearly 50 countries.
In 2007, Gap 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 and currently 25 of the 64 manufacturing facilities that participate in the program are based in India.
Steve Sunnucks, Global President of Gap says, “India is an emerging, vibrant market and an important next step in our global expansion strategy”.
He adds, “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.”
"We are thrilled to know that our brand awareness is very high and there is a deep affinity for Gap in India,” says Ismail Seyis, Vice President of Gap Global Franchise.
