Luxury brand Alfred Dunhill to exit India

Alfred Dunhill, the luxury brand is shutting all its

three outlets in India run through a franchise deal with Brand House Retail, an S Kumars group company. The economic slump and low consumer sentiment has led to both reaching a mutual agreement over the decision of wrapping up India operations for the brand.

Though the decision to exit India has been taken, the partnership continues to remain with both hoping to re-launch the brand when the conditions are conducive for the brand’s survival and growth.

Founded by Alfred Dunhill in early 20th century, Dunhill is best known for leather goods, watches and timepieces, gadgets and clothing. South African group Richemont - the world’s second-largest luxury group behind LVMH and owner of brands such as Cartier and Piaget - took over Dunhill in 1993. The brand also makes writing instruments, lighters and fragrances. It has occasionally provided accessories for James Bond films since 1962 when it made a gunmetal cigarette lighter used by Sean Connery in Dr. No.

Alfred Dunhill came to India four years ago through Brand House, which has Reid & Taylor, Belmonte and Carmichael House too in its portfolio. Brand House has already closed Dunhill outlets in Mumbai and Bangalore. The store at DLF Emporio Mall in Delhi will be closed in the coming week.