Wadhawan Lifestyle plans to bring global brands into India

New Delhi, June 29 (PTI) Wadhawan Lifestyle Retail today
said it is in talks with about 20 global brands to bring them
into India as part of its plans to have 3 million sq ft retail
space in the next 3-4 years.
"We are looking at about four verticals, which includes
international and luxury brand, integrated departmental store
chain, specialty electronics chain and value segment,"
Wadhawan Lifestyle Retail CEO Vishal Mirchandani told
reporters on the sidelines of Pure&Play Retail Summit here.
He said for the international brands, the company is
looking at premium mass market brands as Tommy Hilfiger.
"Currently, we are talking to about 20 international
brands. There is a huge opportunity in this space," he said.
Wadhawan Lifestyle merchandise global brands like Ed
Hardy, Christian Audigier and Kitson.
"We may go for a joint venture or licensing, but in case
of joint venture we would look to be the majority partner,
Mirchandani said
The company, in the next 3-4 years, is looking at having
about 3 million sq ft retail space, which can translate into
120 stores.
Mirchandani, however, declined to reveal the investment
size but said it could run up to the tune of Rs 500 crore.
"Our first store is likly to be open within next 6-9
months," he said.
The company plans to have about 7-8 of private levels in
different verticals and also looks to have its own specialty
home electronics chain.
"Another segment at which we seriously looking at is the
value segment. There is a lot of untapped potential which we
would like to explore," he said.