Blissclub, the activewear brand, strengthens its leadership. Kshitij Torka is appointed as Chief Business Officer. Sushma R. Rao joins as Head of Marketing. Torka will spearhead business strategy and revenue growth. Rao will manage marketing and consumer insights. These appointments aim to accelerate Blissclub’s mission. The company wants to inspire more Indian women to embrace movement.

If US tariffs continue, ICRA expects the revenues of Indian apparel exporters to drop by 6-9 per cent in FY26 in spite of the implementation of the FTA with the UK and diversion of supplies elsewhere.
ICRA recently revised the outlook on India’s apparel exports industry to negative from stable.
Lower exports and pressure on pricing is expected to contract industry operating margins by 200-300 bps in FY26.

The Indian handmade carpet industry is a significant contributor to the economy, providing employment, directly or indirectly, to over 20 lakh workers and artisans, especially women in rural areas.

Gold demand dipped during the initial festive period. India Bullion & Jewellers Association reported a 28% drop. High gold prices dampened consumer enthusiasm. Many buyers opted for lighter, lower-karat jewelry. Some jewelers saw increased sales value despite volume decreases. Investment demand for gold coins remained steady. Jewelers are adjusting manufacturing strategies to meet changing preferences.

Mexico’s economy and finance ministry recently imposed anti-dumping duty (ADD) on import of footwear originating in China following a probe that found such merchandise entered Mexico under dumping conditions, which affected the national footwear industry.
The ADD, between $0.54 and $22.50 per pair, took effect from September 4.
The anti-dumping investigation began on April 26, 2024.

The outlook for the Indian apparel export industry has been revised to Negative from Stable by rating agency ICRA, following the upward revision in tariff rates by the US.

Lladro, the Spanish luxury brand, anticipates a 20% growth in India for 2025, fueled by strong Diwali sales, which contribute nearly a fifth of its India business. India has emerged as Lladro’s third-largest market globally, following Japan and the US. The brand plans to strengthen its presence in home décor and porcelain lighting, while operating nine boutiques across metro cities.

Global audio giant QCY is entering the Indian market, planning a manufacturing plant in Manesar, Haryana, with significant investment. Targeting a USD 75-100 million value share by 2026, QCY aims to boost India’s wearable tech growth under the Make in India initiative. Six new flagship products across TWS, headphones, and speakers are launching this festive season.

Zumiez Inc has posted net sales of $214.3 million in Q2 FY25, up 1.9 per cent YoY, with comparable sales rising 2.5 per cent.
Net loss was $1 million, or $0.06 per share, versus $0.8 million last year.
H1 FY25 sales grew 2.9 per cent to $398.6 million, with losses narrowing to $15.3 million.
Q3-to-date sales rose 10.6 per cent, led by 13 per cent growth in North America.

Sawariya Group, through its subsidiary Luxe Asia, is venturing into the lifestyle sector, aiming for a USD 20 million business by 2026. The company plans extensive distribution, targeting 350 multi-brand outlets, 18 exclusive brand outlets, and over 20 franchise stores in Tier-II cities within two years.