Shoppers' Stop launches new co-branded clothes  ( May '3,2004, HBL)

IN a pioneering initiative in retail, Shoppers' Stop and Raghavendra Rathore have announced the launch of a new co-branded range of merchandise at the Lakme India Fashion Week 2004.

The line will be retailed exclusively at all Shoppers' Stop across the country.

According to a press release, for the first time, designs of one of India's leading designers will be manufactured by a retailer. The brand will be owned 50:50 by both partners. The clothes will be priced between Rs 500 and Rs 1,500.

Mr Govind Shrikhande, Director, Buying & Merchandising, said: "The idea is to create an aspirational brand keeping in mind the price sensitivity".

The Jodhpur-based designer Raghavendra Rathore, added: "The future of Indian fashion is in the sharing of individual strengths through partnering efforts ."