FIPB clears four single-brand retail FDI proposals
The board cleared proposals of Fossil, French brand Promod, crockery maker Le Creuset and sports giant Decathlon
New Delhi: The finance ministry on Wednesday cleared four foreign direct investment (FDI) proposals in single brand retailing, including that of Decathlon and Fossil Inc., worth about ₹ 750 crore, sources said.
The Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB), headed by economic affairs secretary Arvind Mayaram, in its meeting has also cleared the proposals of French fashion brand Promod, crockery maker Le Creuset and sports giant Decathlon, they said.
India is witnessing an increased interest in the retailing segment, ever since the government allowed 100% FDI in single brand retail in January 2012. The proposal of Le Creuset, Fossil, and Decathlon were for 100% FDI, while Promod sought entering the segment through a joint venture. Decathlon alone would bring in foreign equity worth ₹ 700 crore, while Promod would bring about ₹ 30 crore and the American high-end accessories firm Fossil plans over ₹ 22 crore investment. Crockery maker Le Creuset, which already operates a cash-and-carry business in India, may not bring in fresh investment but rather get funding from its existing wholesale operations, they added. In the recent past, FIPB has cleared several major single brand retail proposals including that of Swedish furniture-maker Ikea, British footwear retailer Pavers England, American luxury clothing retailer Brooks Brothers and Italian jewellery maker Damiani.
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!