Apparel Group partners with Cotton On for entry in India
By Retail4Growth Bureau | February 18, 2026
The brand will roll out in phases through an omnichannel approach, supported by stores across the country, its own e-commerce platform, and a presence on leading online marketplaces.
Apparel Group, a leading global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate, has partnered with Cotton On, Australia's well-known global fashion and lifestyle brand, as it prepares to launch the brand across India's rapidly evolving retail landscape.
Currently, Cotton On operates in over 20 countries, supported by a network of 1,300 stores globally. Apparel Group has a global portfolio of 2500+ stores and more than 85 brands worldwide. In India, the Group runs 300+ stores across 50 cities with a portfolio of 20+ brands. With strengths in omnichannel retail, e-commerce operations and marketplace management, along with experience in launching global brands locally, the Group is well positioned to roll out Cotton On across the country.
The partnership combines Apparel Group's deep-rooted local expertise and extensive retail infrastructure with Cotton On's signature 'Aussie' lifestyle, offering trend-driven, effortless fashion to one of the world's youngest and most vibrant consumer markets. The brand will be introduced via a phased omnichannel model, featuring a nationwide network of stores, a dedicated e-commerce platform and strategic presence on key digital marketplaces.
“We are proud to bring Cotton On to India as we continue to expand our portfolio of globally relevant lifestyle brands for the new Indian consumer,” said Abhishek Bajpai, CEO of Apparel Group India. “India has one of the world's largest and fastest-growing young premium-buying populations, with a clear shift toward global style, value, and lifestyle-led fashion — and Cotton On fits this opportunity strongly.”
"India marks a significant new chapter for Cotton On as we bring our relaxed, optimistic Australian brand to millions of new customers,” added Bianca Ginns, Managing Director of Cotton On Brands. We're inspired by the energy and creativity of India's youthful population, and we're looking forward to sharing our effortless, on-trend fashion that reflects Cotton On's Aussie lifestyle."
“The arrival of Cotton On in India marks a strategic milestone in Apparel Group's journey to redefine the country's retail landscape,” said Tushar Ved, President of Apparel Group India. “By bringing Cotton On's iconic Australian DNA to our shores, we are not just adding a brand to our portfolio but strengthening our position as the premier gateway for global giants.”
Source: PTI News
