Italian fashion giant OVS has launched its first Indian store in Delhi, aiming to compete with global brands by offering high-quality, sustainable Italian style at accessible prices. The company is investing directly in the Indian market, maintaining price parity with Italy and planning a measured expansion with a focus on physical retail before introducing e-commerce.

Gold prices are predicted to fall after Diwali, offering relief to consumers. This price correction is expected to sustain the demand seen during Dhanteras, especially for wedding-related purchases. Despite high prices, sales have seen an uptick, with value growth significantly higher than last year. The positive consumer sentiment is anticipated to continue through Bhai Duj.

GST rationalization is projected to boost India’s organized apparel retail sector’s revenue growth to 13-14% this fiscal. A uniform 5% GST on apparel up to Rs 2,500 is expected to drive demand in mid-premium and value segments, offsetting muted growth in premium categories. Retailers anticipate improved operating margins due to lower input costs.

For Swiss watchmakers, India’s trade liberalisation comes as a welcome counterbalance to global headwinds. As customs barriers ease, companies like Rado expect to capture a larger share of India’s luxury spending, powered by an expanding middle class and a youthful workforce with growing disposable income.

India’s luxury watch market is projected for robust annual growth of 11-12%, fueled by an expanding affluent population and rising wealth among HNIs. Consumers are increasingly trading up to premium timepieces, with the share of luxury watch sales jumping significantly.

India’s merchandise exports to the US contracted by 11.9 per cent YoY in September, after recording a 7-per cent YoY growth in August, while exports to non-US markets expanded by 10.9 per cent YoY in the month, accelerating from a 6.6-per cent YoY growth in August, Crisil recently said.
RMG exports contracted—from a YoY drop of 2.6 per cent in August to a decrease of 10.1 per cent YoY in September.

Austria’s apparel imports fell 11.9 per cent to $3.77 billion in Jan–Jul 2025, as European retail demand weakened amid slower sales.
Trousers and shorts maintained the largest share at 25.12 per cent, reflecting steady demand for practical essentials, while dresses and jerseys saw steeper declines.
Retailers’ shift towards year-round garments indicates a broader move away from seasonal fashion.

With the future of the US African Growth and Opportunity Act in limbo, Kenya is seeking to diversify its export markets by attracting Turkish textile and garment manufacturers.
It is citing its existing preferential access to the EU market through the Economic Partnership Agreement to attract Turkish investment.
Kenya expects Turkish companies to set up manufacturing units in its territory.

Japanese sportswear brand ASICS has opened its first company-owned company-operated store in India at DLF Mall of India, Noida. Inaugurated by global CEO Yasuhito Hirota and India & South Asia MD Rajat Khurana, the store offers a comprehensive experience across running, sport, and apparel. ASICS India aims to expand its retail footprint to 200 stores by the end of 2026.

D2C brand Scarters targets 50% year-on-year growth in FY26, driven by new cabin luggage and suitcase launches expected to significantly boost average order values. The bootstrapped company, evolving from work accessories to a lifestyle ecosystem, is focusing on design-led innovation and strategic collaborations to expand its premium offerings.