Australian fashion and lifestyle brand Cotton On has signed a new license deal with Apparel Group India, which will help launch and scale the brand’s retail and digital presence in the South Asia market.
This comes amid strong growth in the Indian apparel market. Research by Statista projects the apparel market there to reach US$113.20 billion in 2026, roughly $159 billion in AUD.
It is anticipated to grow annually by 3.16 per cent (CAGR 2026-2030).
Among the various segments in the market, women's apparel holds the largest share, with a market volume of US$55.08 billion in 2026.
The Cotton On brand will be introduced into India via a phased omnichannel model, featuring a nationwide network of stores, a dedicated e-commerce platform and strategic presence on key digital marketplaces.
Cotton On will introduce a simplified operating model, building from its established northern assortment to accelerate speed‑to‑market and reduce complexity. Apparel Group will leverage its logistics network, managing distribution through its state-of-the-art facilities across the country.
“India is an incredibly exciting market for Cotton On, with a vibrant youth population and strong demand for international lifestyle brands,” Cotton On Group CFO Michael Hardwick said. “Partnering with Apparel Group India allows us to enter the market with speed, confidence and a model built for long-term growth. Their scale, retail expertise and distribution capability make them an ideal partner as we bring Cotton On to millions of new customers.”
Apparel Group is one of the largest multi‑brand operators, with a global portfolio of 2,500 stores and more than 350 locations across India.
Apparel Group India CEO Abhishek Bajpai welcomed the deal with Cotton On, saying it fits perfectly with the current market.
“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,” Bajpai said.
“This partnership reflects our growth ambition and our commitment to creating differentiated, high-energy retail experiences in the market with great retailers like Cotton On.”
India represents one of the most dynamic consumer markets globally, with 232 million people aged 15–24, making it one of the youngest populations in the world. This matches Cotton On’s youth appeal.
As well as its core Cotton On brand, the Cotton On Group also manages the likes of Factorie, Supre, Typo, Rubi and Ceres Life, as well as Cotton On Kids and Cotton On Body. The Group operates in 20 countries, with 20,000 employees, 1,300 stores, an e-commerce site operated locally in 10 countries, eight global distribution centres, 30 wholesale accounts and manages its Cotton On Foundation.