UK retailer Marks & Spencer and Reliance Retail remain locked in talks over a potential joint venture in India, just-food understands.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The two companies are discussing plans to join forces to sell clothing and food in India but have yet to come to a decision on the form of any partnership.


M&S has sold clothes in India since 2001 through a franchise accord with India’s Planet Retail. The company’s 13 franchise stores mostly sell clothing, although an outlet in Delhi does sell a selected range of ambient food.


India’s organised retail sector is worth over US$400m and is expected to double by 2015 but the expansion of the market and the possibility of investment from multinational retailers has been fiercely opposed by small retailers and caused political apprehensions.


When contacted by just-food, a spokesman for Reliance declined to comment on whether the Indian retailer was in talks with M&S.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now