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Reliance Retail plans to launch a new sports format to compete with Decathlon in the athleisure market.
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The new brand will lease large spaces in prime locations across top cities, aiming to replicate Decathlon’s successful model.
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Decathlon has seen significant growth in India, with plans to continue expanding its physical and online presence.
Reliance Retail, led by Mukesh Ambani, is reportedly preparing to challenge French retailer Decathlon in the booming athleisure market. The company plans to launch a new sports format, targeting the growing demand for sports and fitness products. Reliance Retail aims to lease large spaces in prime locations across top cities, emulating Decathlon’s successful model.
Decathlon has seen significant growth in India, with revenue jumping to ₹3,955 crore in FY23 from ₹2,079 crore in FY21. The company plans to continue expanding its physical presence, opening ten stores per year, and strengthening its online footprint. Decathlon’s success has encouraged other sports brands like Puma, Adidas, Skechers, and Asics to invest in the Indian market.
Reliance Retail’s move to challenge Decathlon comes amid reports of the company bringing Chinese fast-fashion label Shein to India. If successful, it will be Shein’s return to the Indian market after a four-year hiatus.
