British fashion retailer NEXT has opened its first store in Mumbai at Infiniti Mall, Malad, marking another major step in its physical retail expansion in India.
The launch is significant because Mumbai represents one of India’s strongest premium fashion markets and provides an important platform for international fashion brands seeking nationwide scale.
The store spans more than 12,000 sq. ft. and offers around 1,000 styles across women’s, men’s and children’s categories.
What Shoppers Can Expect
The Mumbai store features a broad fashion assortment including:
- Dresses
- Shirts
- T-shirts
- Trousers
- Denims
- Shorts
- Co-ord sets
- Women’s fashion
- Men’s fashion
- Kidswear
NEXT also plans to offer select styles exclusively through the Mumbai store.
NEXT’s India Expansion Strategy
NEXT entered India in 2023 and has since expanded into markets including Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
Unlike a conventional company-owned expansion strategy, NEXT operates in India through a licensed distribution and franchise structure involving Myntra Jabong India Pvt Ltd (MJIPL) and franchise partners.
This model can allow an international brand to access local retail expertise while reducing some of the operational complexity associated with building an entirely owned store network.
A LinkedIn discussion around the Mumbai opening also highlighted an ambition of more than 50 stores by 2030, although this should be treated as an expansion ambition rather than a guaranteed store count.
Why Mumbai Matters to NEXT
Mumbai provides a natural platform for NEXT because of its affluent consumer base, international-brand awareness and established premium mall ecosystem.
Infiniti Mall, Malad, gives NEXT access to a large catchment in Western Mumbai while providing the brand with the scale required to showcase its extensive assortment.
The Mumbai store also gives NEXT an opportunity to establish stronger physical brand recognition beyond its online presence.
NEXT’s Global Scale
NEXT was founded in the UK in 1982.
According to ETRetail, the retailer operates more than 460 stores in the UK and approximately 265 international franchise locations, while its online business reaches customers across around 80 countries.
The India expansion therefore represents another international growth opportunity for the British retailer.
Can NEXT Build a Large India Footprint?
The key challenge for NEXT will be replicating its proposition across India’s diverse consumer markets.
The brand must balance international fashion positioning with Indian price sensitivity, local consumer preferences and varying retail economics across metros and Tier-II cities.
Its franchise-led approach could help accelerate expansion, but consistent brand experience, merchandising and pricing will remain critical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is NEXT’s first Mumbai store?
The store is located at Infiniti Mall, Malad, Mumbai.
2. How large is the NEXT Mumbai store?
The store spans more than 12,000 sq. ft.
3. How many styles does the Mumbai store offer?
Around 1,000 styles across women’s, men’s and children’s categories.
4. When did NEXT enter India?
NEXT entered the Indian market in 2023.
5. Who operates NEXT’s India distribution model?
Myntra Jabong India Pvt Ltd holds licensed rights to distribute NEXT products in India through a franchise model.
6. Is NEXT only an online brand in India?
No. The company has been building its physical retail presence across multiple Indian cities.