US specialty retailer American Eagle says it has plans to expand its footprint in India adding 50 stores through franchisees.

The company has entered into a multi‐store retail and e-commerce licensing agreement with Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd (ABFRL). The first store has opened in Jaipur, with plans to expand further.

Ashish Mukul, brand head at American Eagle India described the label as a global jeans brand and “we believe a strong market like Jaipur offers tremendous potential”.

Mukul said the brand will open stores in most major cities in the country.

American Eagle Outfitters and spinoff athleisurewear brand Aerie operate more than 1000 stores in the US, Canada, China, Hong Kong and Mexico. The company ships to 82 countries.