French retailer Carrefour to re-enter Indian market after a decade
What's the story
French retail giant Carrefour is set to make a comeback in the Indian market after a decade-long absence. The company has announced a franchise partnership with Apparel Group, marking its re-entry into the retail sector here. Initially, the focus will be on North India, with plans for nationwide expansion in the pipeline. The first Carrefour stores are expected to open in the National Capital Region (NCR) by 2025.
Growth plans
Carrefour's multi-format expansion strategy in India
Patrick Lasfargues, Carrefour's Executive Director of International Partnership, revealed the company's strategy to adapt to India's diverse retail landscape through a multi-format expansion. He emphasized that India is now a key part of the Carrefour International Partnership 2026 development plan. This move signifies a major step in their strategy to extend their reach into over 10 new countries by 2026.
Market strategy
Apparel Group's commitment to Indian market
Nilesh Ved, owner of Apparel Group and Chairman of AppCorp Holding, expressed his plans for the Indian market. He stated that their first Carrefour stores are set to open in the summer of 2025. Ved's goal is clear: "To offer the best products at very attractive prices to all Indian customers and make Carrefour their favorite brand to shop."
Company profile
Apparel Group's extensive retail network
The Apparel Group, established in 1996 in Dubai, manages an impressive portfolio of 85 brands and operates over 2,300 stores across 14 countries. These include regions such as the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. In India alone, the company boasts a network of more than 250 stores spread over 35 cities and 15 states. This extensive reach positions it as a strong partner for Carrefour's re-entry into the Indian market.
Business overview
Carrefour's global presence and financial performance
Carrefour Group operates a multi-format network of more than 14,000 stores in more than 40 countries, making it one of the world's biggest food retailers. The company reported sales of €94.1 billion last year. Carrefour Partenariat International manages all the franchised partners worldwide, operating in more than 30 countries with over 2,500 stores. This global presence underscores the company's robust business model, and potential for success in new markets like India.