Mumbai: Apparel Group, a leading global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate, has announced a landmark partnership with Cotton On, Australia’s largest global fashion and lifestyle brand, marking a major expansion of its India portfolio. The collaboration signals Cotton On’s formal entry into India’s fast-growing and increasingly youthful fashion market.
The partnership blends Apparel Group’s strong local retail expertise and infrastructure with Cotton On’s signature relaxed “Aussie” lifestyle, known for trend-driven and effortless fashion. The brand will roll out in India through a phased omnichannel strategy that includes a nationwide store network, a dedicated e-commerce platform, and a presence across key digital marketplaces.
Cotton On will create a simplified operating model, building from its established northern assortment to accelerate speed-to-market and reduce complexity. To support this, Apparel Group will leverage its advanced logistics and distribution network, managing operations through state-of-the-art facilities across India to ensure efficient supply chain execution.
Abhishek Bajpai, CEO of Apparel Group India, said,“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. 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. At Apparel Group India, we focus on building brands for long-term scale through disciplined retail execution and deep consumer insight. This partnership reflects our growth ambition and our commitment to creating differentiated, high-energy retail experiences in the market.”
Michael Hardwick, Chief Financial Officer, Cotton On Group, said,“India is an incredibly exciting market for Cotton On, with a vibrant youth population and strong demand for international lifestyle brands. 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.”
Bianca Ginns, Managing Director – Cotton On Brands, stated,“India marks a significant new chapter for Cotton On as we bring our relaxed, optimistic Australian brand to millions of new customers. 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.”
Tushar Ved, President of Apparel Group India said,“The arrival of Cotton On in India marks a strategic milestone in Apparel Group’s journey to redefine the country’s retail landscape. 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. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to driving large-scale retail expansion and delivering aspirational global fashion to the doorstep of the Indian consumer.”
Apparel Group operates more than 2,500 stores globally across a portfolio of over 85 brands. In India, it runs 300+ stores and represents 20+ brands across 50 cities, with strong capabilities in omnichannel retail, marketplace management, and scaling international brands locally.
Cotton On operates in over 20 countries with 20,000 team members, 1,300 stores, and localized e-commerce platforms in ten countries. The business is supported by eight global distribution centres and multiple wholesale partnerships.
Driven by its purpose to create a positive difference in people’s lives, Cotton On established the Cotton On Foundation in 2007. The Foundation has raised more than ₹1,100 crore globally with the support of its team and customers, focusing on Education, Mental Health, and Environment initiatives. As part of its India entry, Cotton On will work with Apparel Group to bring the Foundation’s community impact programs to the local market.
With this partnership, both companies aim to tap into India’s rising appetite for global lifestyle brands while building a long-term, purpose-led retail presence.
