LABEL December 2013 | Page 10

LABEL Issue III NEWS Top Stories Hennes & Mauritz gets government nod to invest Rs 720 crores in India US apparel retailer Gap in joint venture talks with Arvind Brands Swedish retailer Hennes & Mauritz has received final approval from FIPB to invest Rs 720 crore ($115.2 million) in the country, according to a government statement. Gap Inc, the largest casual wear retailer in the US, looks set to enter the Indian market next year through a joint venture with Arvind Brands, two people familiar with the development said. Walmart to expand tech centre at Bangalore as it takes on ecommerce rival Amazon Luxury brands Godiva, Faberge eye India expansion The world's largest brick-and mortar retailer Wal-Mart is banking on India by expanding its Bangalore-based technology centre as it takes on e-commerce rival Amazon. The Bangalore centre which currently employs 400 people, will more than double its headcount by the end of next year, according to people with direct knowledge of Walmart's India hiring plans. Kishore Biyani bets big on fashion business, eyes Rs 7,000 crore revenue next year Future Group founder Kishore Biyani said he expects to clock Rs 7,000 crore from the fashion business in the next financial year. He said 'Fashion at Big Bazaar' will be contributing Rs 3,000 crore and 'Future Lifestyle Fashion' the balance Rs 4,000 crore next fiscal. Two major luxury brands, Godiva chocolates and Faberge jewellery, have unveiled their plans to expand their presence in the emerging Indian market. While the Belgian chocolatiers will kick off with a store soon, Faberge aims to build on its gem-cutting base in Jaipur. Retail plans after Walmart separation completion: Bharti Enterprises Bharti Enterprises will decide on its future course of expansion in the retail sector once its ongoing process of separation with partner Walmart is completed, said company ViceChairman and Managing Director Rajan Bharti Mittal. 9|Page