Tata International to introduce more foreign labels

Noel Tata, who built Trent into a Rs 1,000 crores company

and launched a slew of brands such as Sisley and Zara in India, is looking at launching more global brands through Tata International, the exports and trading arm of Tata Group which he heads. Tata International Wolverine Brands, a joint venture between Tata International and US-based Wolverine World Wide, plans to launch more brands from Wolverine’s portfolio in India.

Wolverine World Wide has 16 brands under it those include Bates, Harley-Davidson Footwear, Cat, Hush Puppies among others. Hush Puppies is currently marketed by Bata in India. The JV launched apparels, footwear and accessories under the premium brand 'Cat' from Wolverine’s stable last week. It is now looking to launch another brand in the next 3-4 months.

In April last year, Tata International entered into a joint venture with NYSE listed Wolverine Worldwide. The 50:50 JV will also had an arrangement with another Tata group firm, Trent, which operates lifestyle chain Westside. Noel Tata was managing director of Trent before taking over as MD of Tata International in July 2010.