Simon Carter rides to India via Aditya Birla Fashion

Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd (ABFRL) had in May last year signed a licensing agreement to bring the London- based designer brand to India.

The brand, which launched its store in Mumbai, plans to open 10 more outlets in cities, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Pune and Chandigarh by the end of FY'18.

"ABFRL will be investing about Rs 20 crore for brand building, manufacturing and product development besides about half a crore which would be the per store opening cost," ABFRL CEO Vishak Kumar said.

He further said the collection will be a mix of imports from UK and merchandise created by the company in India.

"This is a very interesting segment as there is no other established player in areas like jewellery and accesories for men and we see this at a about Rs 250-300 crore brand in the next three years," Kumar said.

Simon Carter's product range comprises of suits, jackets, shirts, blazers, jewellery and accesories for men, among others.

"I'm proud to partner with Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail and so happy to bring authentic British style to India. I believe India suits Simon Carter and Simon Carter will most definitely suit India, with its high quality, witty and eclectic style of dressing for the modern Indian men. My inspiration comes from the world around me and my line for India is hugely inspired by India, its everyday things, places, boundless spirit and its heart-warming people," said Simon Carter.

Simon Carter retails his collections in 40 countries around the world. ABFRL has a portfolio of fashion brands with about 8,000 points of sale across the country which include more than 2,000 exclusive ABFRL brand outlets.

Kumar said in the next two months around three stores will be opened in Delhi followed by Bengaluru and others.

Simon Carter brand is also available online for sale on Myntra and on www.simoncarter.in.