FIRST STORE FLAGSHIP NATIONAL
NEW DELHI, INDIA
By IFAB MEDIA - NEWS BUREAU - November 11, 2024 | 95 4 minutes read
Shoppers Stop’s beauty distribution division, Global SSBeauty Brands (GSSB), has launched India’s first Armani Beauty flagship store at DLF Promenade Mall in Vasant Kunj, Delhi, a prestigious location that sets a new benchmark for luxury beauty retail in India. This landmark store embodies Armani’s signature elegance and sophistication, reflecting the brand’s global reputation as a symbol of luxury. The store opening was announced by Biju Kassim, CEO of Beauty at Shoppers Stop, on his LinkedIn page, marking the beginning of a significant journey for Armani Beauty in the Indian market.
The Armani Beauty boutique is part of GSSB's expanding prestige portfolio, which includes internationally acclaimed brands such as Maison Margiela, Viktor & Rolf, Nars, and Clarins. GSSB aims to capitalize on India’s growing demand for premium beauty brands, with the prestige beauty segment experiencing rapid growth. Kassim emphasized that Armani is a marquee brand that resonates well with India’s fashion-conscious consumers who are increasingly exploring global luxury brands.
In terms of revenue distribution within GSSB’s portfolio, fragrances lead with a contribution of approximately 45%, followed by makeup at 40%, and skincare at 15%. Overall, GSSB contributes around 20% to Shoppers Stop’s beauty segment, with Armani’s introduction expected to increase this significantly, comprising an estimated 25-26% of GSSB’s total business.
The launch is part of a broader rollout strategy for Armani Beauty, with two additional boutiques slated to open later this month at Jio World Drive in Mumbai and Mall of Asia in Bengaluru. Shoppers Stop also plans to expand Armani Beauty’s presence across India through shop-in-shop formats and partnerships with other prominent retailers, including Sephora, Nykaa, and Tira.
Reflecting on the market potential, Kassim commented, “The prestige beauty segment in India is growing at a robust pace, and we expect it to continue on that trajectory. The new-age Indian consumer is highly fashion-conscious and enthusiastic about luxury brands. Armani’s portfolio is powerful, and we anticipate it will perform exceptionally well in India.”
Looking ahead, Shoppers Stop expects GSSB to close the financial year with revenue of Rs 220-230 crore, reflecting nearly 100% growth from the previous year. Kassim noted that while the current base is small, the prestige beauty segment is poised for continued double-digit growth in the coming years.
GSSB’s launch of Armani Beauty fragrances last year marked its initial entry into the Indian market, and now, with a dedicated store, Armani Beauty is set to become a key player in India’s premium beauty sector. The store’s launch underscores Shoppers Stop's commitment to bringing global luxury beauty experiences to Indian consumers, aligning with the country’s premiumization trend and the rising demand for prestige brands among young, style-driven buyers.