Date:28/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/12/28/stories/2005122802390800.htm

Back Benetton opens exclusive outlet in Chennai

Our Bureau

Ms Gagan Singh, Managing Director, Benetton India with music director Yuvan Shankar Raja and Mr M. Lankalingam, Master franchisee for Chennai, at the launch of United Colors of Benetton exclusive store in Chennai on Tuesday. — Bijoy Ghosh

Chennai , Dec. 27

BENETTON India, which has opened 20 outlets across India in 2005, will expect to do the same in the following year, according to Ms Gagan Singh, Managing Director, Benetton India.

Speaking at the launch of Benetton's 4,500 sq ft store here today, she said that Benetton India has had a growth of 30 per cent in terms of revenues in 2005.

The store is the company's first exclusive outlet in Chennai, and the first mega store in the South. Benetton will look to open four to five new stores in the South next year, Ms Singh said.

Mr M. Lankalingam, Chairman and Innovation Head, Lanson, the owner of the franchisee in the Chennai store, said that an investment of Rs 1 crore went into the store.

Lanson would be in charge of the franchisees in Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry and Kerala.

He said that within the next eight months, one store would be opened in Pondicherry and two in Kerala, one of which would be in Kochi. Another store would be opened in Chennai in Ampa Mall, the upcoming retail centre, with two levels, one for adults, and one for children.

The megastore showcases eveningwear and casuals for adults and children and also the Autumn Winter 2005-06 collection of Benetton, which caters to all age groups.