The Limited plans to launch its Victoria’s Secret brand in India by early next year.

The American brand has partnered with Bradford Licensing to open five stores in the country initially.

“We are helping the brand enter India through licensing where the partner will open stores as well as produce the garments in India,” said Bradford Licensing founder Gaurav Marya.

“Within the high-fashion market, the positioning is somewhere between Mango and Zara,” adds Marya.

According to Shoppers Stop MD Govind Shrikhande, India’s womenswear market is still underbranded, signalling opportunities for global brands like The Limited.

“The challenge will be to get the pricing and sizes right for Indian consumers.”

The apparel market in India is projected to be worth $225 billion over the next seven to eight years.