Malaysian kidswear brand Poney, which has entered India in collaboration with Ajanta International, is looking to open 25 stores in the next few years. Ajanta, the master franchisee for the brand in India, is targeting a turnover of ₹100-150 crore in five years from the brand.

Muzaffar Syed, Head of International Business Development at Poney Malaysia, said: “India offers a huge potential, with rapid urbanisation and growing disposable incomes.

“We believe there is a gap in the market, as the country does not have many organised kidswear brands that offer quality and comfortable products, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 towns. India and China are the key focus international markets for us.”

Syed said that the company is also looking at manufacturing in, and begin sourcing from, India.

“Initially we could look at making accessories like kids’ luggage, watches and sunglasses in the country. We are exploring options to make in India,” he added.

Rajat Kapoor, Head, Ajanta International, said the company is looking to open 25 standalone stores and 100 shop-in-shops over five years. Mid-priced brand

The company hopes to position itself as a mid-priced brand in the Indian kidswear market, which is dominated by unorganised players but witnessing rapid growth.

“We have already opened the first standalone store in Delhi and hope to follow this up with another in the city soon. Our focus is not just going to be on the key metros but also on tier-2 cities,” said Kapoor.

“We will also look at selling online through e-commerce players, including kids’ products portals. We will also look at starting our own portal by next year,” he added.

Related Topics
comment COMMENT NOW