Trent allocates $260m to expand Westside’s retail footprint, targeting 100 new stores yearly amid slowing growth at its Zudio chain.
Trent, a Tata Group subsidiary, plans to open up to 100 Westside stores annually, up from 10-15 previously. The expansion follows a Rs25bn ($260m) capital raise, with funds earmarked for physical and digital growth. Westside currently operates 300 stores across India, focusing on fashion, beauty, and home decor.
The push comes as Trent seeks to counter a slowdown at its Zudio value-fashion chain, which has lost market share to Reliance Industries and Aditya Birla Group. E-commerce revenue, currently 6% of Westside’s total, is targeted to rise to 10%. New stores will prioritize northeastern India and existing hubs like Delhi and Bengaluru.
Trent’s April investor presentation highlighted cautious consumer spending amid macroeconomic uncertainties, underscoring the need for strategic expansion.