Written By: Resham Daswani

From product development and marketing to merchandising and the consumer experience, technology is permeating every facet of the fashion industry's retail operations. The rate of innovation is rising rapidly as we enter the year 2024, which is great news for well-known companies and new entrants alike. Being abreast of the major technological shifts impacting the fashion retail industry is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.  So to know more about the top trends that are enhancing the growth of the fashion retail business in India and why aspiring entrepreneurs should grab this opportunity and start a fashion retail franchise anywhere in India, this blog can prove very insightful.

Top 10 Trends Shaping India’s Fashion Retail Franchise Business in India

This article explores the fifteen most important trends that will shape the next year, offering advice and illustrations to help you make the most of them. Get ready to be swept away on an adventure into the world of fashion's future, whether you're a designer, a retailer, or just a die-hard customer.

Trend #1. Engaging and Immersive Shopping Experiences

Static photos and simple product descriptions are no longer relevant in today's market. People want experiences that they can actively participate in, and technology is making that possible.

These are some of the main factors.

1. Use of AR [ Augmented Reality ]: Think of it as a virtual clothing trial before you buy. Augmented reality (AR) allows consumers to view how clothes appear and fit by superimposing digital apparel models onto their bodies. Returns are decreased and consumer satisfaction is increased as a result.
2. Increasing use of VR [ Virtual Reality ]: Go to the next level by exploring interactive, virtual showrooms in three dimensions. Several fashion houses have begun providing virtual reality (VR) experiences, letting clients try on clothes and accessories from designers including Tommy Hilfiger and many others.
3. Visualization of Product By 3D: High-quality 3D models allow users to examine products in great detail from any angle, at any zoom level, and under any light condition. The result is a rise in conversion rates and an improvement to the online buying experience overall.

Trend #2: Product Personalization At Its Peak

The idea that one size fits all is a throwback from the past. Consumers anticipate having individualised experiences, and technological advancements are making this a reality.

Some of the key factors include.

1. Recommendations via AI [ Artificial Intelligence ]: Make informed product recommendations, style predictions, and individualised style advice based on consumer data and purchases.
2. Use of ChatBots & VAs: At all hours of the day and night, these AI-driven tools respond to consumer questions, make tailored suggestions, and offer real-time assistance.
3. Demographic Content: A more relevant and interesting experience is achieved by displaying products and offers that are customised to each user's interests according to their demographics, browsing behaviour, and previous purchases.

Trend #3: With Omnichannel Integration, Online and Offline Experiences Are Seamlessly Blended

We are seeing a blurring of the lines between traditional retail and online retail. Here is how it works:

1. With click-and-collect, customers can place online orders and then pick them up in a store, giving them more freedom and convenience.
2. If you offer Buy Online, Return In-shop (BORIS), customers can easily return things they bought online by going to a physical shop.
3. The mPOS system allows sales associates to use their mobile phones to help customers regardless of where they are in the store, which greatly improves the in-store experience.

Trend #4: Emphasising Sustainability

More and more, shoppers are thinking about how their clothing choices affect the environment. With the help of technology, brands are embracing sustainability. Here’s how.

1. Blockchain technology allows for transparent tracking of materials' origin and transit, guaranteeing responsible production and ethical sourcing.
2. It is becoming more and more vital to use recycled materials, organic fibres, and low-impact dying techniques in sustainable production processes.
3. Initiatives for the circular economy: resale sites and rental services help clothes get used again and again, which extends their life cycle.

Trend #5: Increase in the Use of Social Commerce

In recent years, social media platforms have transformed into formidable online marketplaces. Here’s how.

1. Introducing Shoppable Postings and Stories: Say goodbye to platform switching and hello to direct product purchases from social network postings.
2. The introduction of gifting tools by social media platforms has simplified the process of buying and sending fashionable products to loved ones.
3. People who are influential can help you build trust and sales through user-generated content and relationships with influential people.

Trend #6: Automated and robotic systems are taking over tasks that are repetitive.

Within warehouses and factories, repetitive jobs are being taken over by robots, which is leading to improvements in both efficiency and accuracy.  Here’s how.

1. Robots have the ability to help speed up the process of order fulfilment while also reducing the number of errors that occur.
2. When it comes to quality control and inspection, robots are able to analyse clothes for flaws with a higher degree of accuracy than humans.
3. Automated Customer Service: AI-driven chatbots may respond to simple consumer questions, allowing real people to address more complicated problems.

Trend #7: Phygital is the way of the future for retail.

Experiences that are seamless and engaging will be created as a result of the continued convergence of the digital and physical worlds.  Here’s how.

1. In-Store Displays That Are Interactive The shopping experience is enhanced with displays that are interactive and include augmented reality (AR) elements and product information.
2. Utilising customer data to provide personalised product recommendations to customers while they are shopping in-store is an example of providing personalised in-store recommendations.
3. Frictionless Checkout: In order to facilitate transactions that are both quicker and more convenient, it is recommended to use self-checkout choices and mobile payment solutions.

Trend #8: Ongoing Innovation is Crucial.

To keep up with the ever-changing fashion market, one must embrace ongoing innovation. Some significant strategies are as follows.

1. Invest Money in R&D: Put money into discovering new solutions and researching new technologies.
2. Work with tech companies as partners: pool resources and ideas with tech companies to create ground-breaking solutions.
3. Take an Agile Approach: Embrace change, try new things fast, and use what you learn to get better.

Trend #9: Decision Making That Is Driven By Data.

Fashion businesses are making smart decisions by utilising data to obtain insights. Here’s how.

1. Customer Analytics: Learn your customers' wants and needs and tailor your products and services to them by studying their actions, tastes, and buying habits.
2. Attribution in marketing: optimise ad spending by measuring the efficacy of marketing efforts across channels.
3. To forecast trends, one must first identify new styles and fads by analysing data from social media, search engines, and sales.

Trend #10: The Emergence of Voice Commerce as a Powerful Mechanism.

The way in which we engage with technology is being revolutionised by voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, and the fashion industry is no exception. Expect to see.

1. Activated via voice: Voice commands allow you to shop for garments without having to use your hands, making it a great gift for consumers who are constantly on the go.
2. For the purpose of making well-informed decisions, you can have voice assistants provide you with product information and reviews, as well as size recommendations and product specifics.

In a nutshell, fashion businesses can unlock new opportunities, improve customer experiences, and prosper in the constantly shifting retail landscape if they adopt these top ten technological trends.

Take into consideration that this is only the beginning. It is those who are willing to accept technology will be the ones to shape the future of fashion, which is filled to the brim with infinite possibilities.

Top 5 Clothing Retail Franchises To Consider in India 2024

You have arrived at the right location if you are considering entering the fashion sector and would like to learn more about the market for clothing brand franchises. There is a great possibility to capitalise on the expanding retail sector in India through apparel franchises.

Here are some of the best apparel retail franchises in India.

1. Biba Franchise - When it comes to traditional Indian wear, no one does it better than Biba. Young and old alike are captivated by its verdant and colourful attire. Additionally, it holds a commanding position in global markets. Unsewn garments for both sexes are also available at Biba. They will assist the franchise with marketing and training.
2. Jockey India Franchise - This has made a name for itself in the country as a popular men's and women's knickers brand. Jockey items sell like hotcakes because of the trustworthiness of the brand and the high quality of the products. Regarding training, shop design, and guaranteeing a high profit margin, the brand fully supports its franchise partners. A lot size of 1000 to 1400 square feet is needed to establish a Jockey business.
3. Raymond Franchise - In India, this men's apparel brand is renowned for quality and style. Raymond franchisees receive comprehensive support. We help with in-shop design, building, and business development. Raymond franchises must have 15 feet of space to meet brand standards. Customers trust Raymond after 90 years, guaranteeing a strong consumer base for franchisees.
4. The Arvind Store Franchise - Seller of men's clothes and suiting fabrics. It represents Indian young fashion. A 700-1000-square-foot franchise land space is necessary. The brand sells Italian materials to affluent clientele. The franchise will receive advertising and marketing from the brand to promote holiday campaigns and end-of-season sales.
5. Siyaram’s Franchise - Indian fashion company with 1 lakh retail shops is popular with the populace. Franchise owners must comprehend fashion trends and strive for perfection, according to Siyaram. The company offers a 30% ROI in 3–4 years. Siyaram strives for profitability to build successful franchise partnerships with their owners.

To Conclude,

Taking advantage of India's booming retail sector, investing in a franchise for a clothing brand may be an exciting and lucrative business move. Franchisees looking to break into the fashion industry can find exceptional prospects with each of the brands featured in this article.

Before choosing, consider brand positioning, investment needs, development prospects, and support. Remember, working with a well-known apparel brand can help you succeed in Indian fashion. The apparel franchise sector in India is booming, so make a smart choice, be open to possibilities, and start your journey today.  For more assistance, reach out to our experts at FranchiseBazar right away.

Disclaimer: The brands mentioned in this blog are the recommendations provided by the author. FranchiseBAZAR does not claim to work with these brands / represent them / or are associated with them in any manner. Investors and prospective franchisees are to do their own due diligence before investing in any franchise business at their own risk and discretion. FranchiseBAZAR or its Directors disclaim any liability or risks arising out of any transactions that may take place due to the information provided in this blog.