India is witnessing a luxury boom. Adding another feather to its consistently growing luxury market is the upcoming flagship opening of the Galeries Lafayette, one of the world’s most iconic French department stores making its India debut. Set to open early November at the historic Turner Morrison and Voltas House buildings in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai, this landmark debut unites the French retailer’s 130-year legacy in fashion, art, and culture with the Aditya Birla Group’s deep understanding of the Indian luxury retail market.
To mark the launch, a spectacular event was hosted on the Arabian Sea, where Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group and Nicolas Houzé, Executive Chairman of Galeries Lafayette Group, arrived via a fleet of yachts from the Gateway of India, symbolising the French store’s arrival on Indian shores. The launch follows the strategic partnership announced in 2022 between Galeries Lafayette and Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited (ABFRL) to bring the Parisian label’s immersive shopping experience to India through flagship stores and an omnichannel retail model.
Commenting on the launch, Kumar Mangalam Birla emphasised that luxury in India today stands at the “threshold of transformation” driven by several factors. “With one of the fastest growing affluent populations in the world and a new generation of globally exposed consumers, the appetite for high-end experiences has never been stronger. A new India is emerging which is youthful, ambitious, and globally connected. One that embraces luxury as a statement of aspiration and identity,” he said adding that their partnership with Galeries Lafayette, marks a “coming-of-age moment” for Indian luxury retail. “Together, we are creating an iconic destination in the heart of Mumbai—a world class showcase where the best of global luxury engages with the rising confidence of the Indian consumer. For the first time, India will welcome a luxury department store, housed in landmark real estate, executed with precision, and infused with the elegance of Indian sensibilities,” he adds.
Dipping toes in India’s Luxury Boom
India’s luxury market is surging and the recent happenings in the country are a testament to that. From the debut of Bvlgari’s Serpenti Infinito exhibition, 36 Indian hotels making to the coveted list of the first-ever The Michelin Key Guide 2025, to M3M Group announcing investment in ultra luxury homes in India, and a strong Indian presence at the British Museum’s inaugural Pink Ball, the country is turning a new leaf in its luxury segment.
Further, facts speak bright of its future. India’s luxury market is projected to reach USD 85 billion by 2030. This is driven by aspirational lifestyles, rising affluence of people, and digital engagement. The recent partnership between Galeries Lafayette and ABFRL further caters to India’s growing aspirations for a luxurious lifestyle.
Ashish Dikshit, Managing Director, Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited shared that Galeries Lafayette ushers in a “new paradigm of luxury” for India, one that goes beyond retail to create cultural experiences. “At ABFRL, our focus has always been on shaping aspirations while building leadership in premium and luxury retail through strategic investment and execution. With this flagship, we are setting new benchmarks in assortment, service and experience, while building on the momentum that has already placed India on the global luxury map. Our aim is to further elevate this trajectory, amplifying India’s influence and visibility in the world of luxury. This milestone reflects not only our retail vision but also our commitment to nurturing a stronger luxury ecosystem in India, one that is both aspirational and sustainable.”
A luxury departmental store
Galeries Lafayette’s Kala Ghoda store spans 90,000 sq. ft. and is divided into five levels. It’s designed by London-based firm Virgile + Partners, blending Parisian elegance with Mumbai’s architectural heritage. The store will have over 250 global designer and luxury brands. It will also provide personal styling suites, private lounges, concierge services, and curated cultural programs as part of experiential luxury.
Mumbai serves as a fitting location for the luxury departmental store with Nicolas Houzé commenting, “With Mumbai as our anchor point, we are proud to introduce an experience that brings together French heritage, creativity, and innovation, while embracing the energy and cultural richness of India. This flagship will stand as a symbol of our ambition to make the French Art of Living shine on the global stage.” He adds that partnering with the Aditya Birla Group, gives this project a particularly “strong” foundation.
More than a retail space, Galeries Lafayette Mumbai embodies the Art de Vivre and Joie de Vivre spirit, offering a fusion of fashion, culture, and design tailored for India’s new-age luxury consumers.
