Mumbai and Delhi are the target locations of the first stores in 2015.
SAN FRANCISCO-Last August 21, 2014 Gap Inc. expressed its plan to improve its global presence by putting up stores in India through franchising. Gap is collaborating with Arvin Lifestyle Brand Limited, one of the India's biggest textile companies. Pilot stores will be constructed in India's two major locations-Mumbai and Delhi. The brand aims to operate about 40 franchise Gap stores in India.
" India is getting bigger, active market and the major next move in our global expansion move," said Steve Sunnucks, Gap's Global President. "We are excited to introduce our brand and products to our new consumers in India."
Known as one of the most populated country with over 1.2 billion people, India plays an important role in bringing American casual style to the world market.
"Over half of the India's population is under 25 years old and they are very active in embracing fashion in the current's retail scene," said Ismail Seyis, Gap Global Franchise Vice President. "We are overwhelmed by the fact that the awareness of our brand is very high and there is a great love for Gap in India. Looking forward to gain more knowledge of the marketplace and customers needs to create the ideal Gap brand experience for the local market."
Gap Inc. has established a strong commitment to India having sourced products for several decades. India is included in the brand's top ten international sourcing locations and Gap Inc. has strengthened its relationships and responsible practices with our partners. In the year 2007, Gap Inc. introduced the P.A.C.E. (Personal Advancement & Career Enhancement) workplace education module in the country with sole vendor in the two manufacturing units. This module gives the female garment workers the life skills education and technical training they need for improvement at work and in their life. As of the moment 24 out of 64 manufacturing facilities that are included in the program are located in India.
Since the launch of the first franchise store in 2006, Gap Inc. has expanded the global presence, which now has 400 franchise stores together with 3,200 company-owned shops. The brand now has conquered about 50 countries all over the world.
