Japanese sportswear brand Asics has received Indian government approval to operate as a single brand retailer.

As a result, the company will end its exclusive distribution arrangement with Indian retail powerhouse Reliance Retail and appoint its own retail partners. However, it said Reliance would be its preferred retail partner, demonstrating the companies remain on good terms.

The company has already formed an Indian subsidiary Asics India Pvt Ltd.

“We have an exclusive distribution agreement with Reliance Retail (Footprint) which will be finished by end of March 2015,” Asics India director Rajat Khurana said.

Asics believes it has an opportunity to triple its sales in the growing market.

“The change is intended to bolster sales of Asics products in the country.”

Asics Asia Pacific Division senior GM and Asics India director Dae Chul Kim said in an interview with The India Times that India is a promising market and has a huge potential.

“We plan to expand our sales network and bolster marketing support for retail shops in order to establish Asics’ value and image as a true sport performance brand.”

Company-owned flagship stores are under consideration.