US-based designer footwear brand Stuart Weitzman has sealed a deal with Reliance Brands to launch in India in 2013.

Stuart Weitzman will initially open stores in Delhi and Mumbai.

The brand, which has 40 domestic stores and 42 international stores, says entering India is part of its ongoing international expansion. Stuart Weitzman, the designer himself, is famous for his use of unique materials and his attention to detail.

“India is a key strategic region of our world that has shown a strong demand for our products and we see this as one of the most important long term markets in the world,” said Weitzman.

Stuart Weitzman’s 20-year exclusive partnership with Reliance Brands follows the latter’s tie-up with UK-based footwear retailer Dune. Reliance Brands also represents Ermenegildo Zegna, Quicksilver, Steve Madden, Diesel and Kenneth Cole, among others.

“Stuart Weitzman’s ability to leverage the global strength of the Stuart Weitzman brand, and building a larger presence for them here in India is a great opportunity,” said Darshan Mehta, president and CEO of Reliance Brands.

GB