Flipkart has obtained the licence and distribution rights of Nautica, a lifestyle brand owned by US-based Authentic Brands Group (ABG), and will manage the brand’s online and offline business in India through a network of franchise partners. Flipkart will bring its expertise in design, product development and merchandising to address unique Indian consumer demands.

Flipkart will offer Nautica access to over 160 million consumers across Flipkart, Myntra and Jabong, according to Jamie Salter, founder, chairman and chief executive of ABG, which owns a portfolio of iconic brands and acquired Nautica in May 2018.

ABG’s intention was to grow the brand’s global footprint by expanding into newer geographies and strengthen its presence in existing market, according to Indian media reports.

Flipkart feels fashion is a $100-billion market in India with only 6 per cent having been penetrated by the online retail players. The company has formed similar partnerships with other global brands like Mango (offline and online), Esprit and H&M (only online). (DS)