Tata’s Trent plans first store outside India in Dubai

Tata group retailer Trent is looking to expand abroad after the success of its brands Zudio and Utsa in India.

The Noel Tata-led firm is planning to open its flagship store in Dubai, the first outside India, The Economic Times reported, citing unidentified people aware of the issue.

In the company’s annual report released last month, the company said a wholly owned subsidiary, Trent Global Trading LLC(TGTL), has been incorporated in Dubai, UAE, adding that TGTL is yet to commence business operations.

This is a change in strategy for Trent, which earlier wanted to consolidate domestic operations. With Zudio surpassing the ₹7,000-crore ($842 million) revenue mark in India, the company is now looking to expand outside the country. 

The company is reportedly considering an international ally for possible partnerships, though Trent chief executive P Venkatesalu said it was too early to comment on the plans. 

In FY24, the company reported a total income of ₹12,277.49 crore ($11.48 billion) and profit before taxes of ₹1,873.32 crore ($225 million). 

The bulk of Trent’s business comes from Westside and Zudio. 

As of March, Zudio had 545 stores across the country, while Westside operated 229 outlets. Combined with other brands, Trent’s total portfolio consists of about 800 stores.   

“Westside and Zudio are like two siblings playing in the fashion space. They vary on product, design, fabric, etc., but are still relevant at different price points. Moreover, the learnings from Westside helped build a strong Zudio model and the backend integration of the two brands is helping both businesses deliver synergistic growth,” Venkatesalu told ET.