This is the right time to be in India, says Benetton

, 42, is the executive deputy chairman of Italian fashion group Benetton. Benetton is also the founder and chairman of 21 Investimenti, a merchant banking company and private equity fund managing operations and assets worth Euro 1 billion in France and Italy. He is also the chairman of Benetton Formula, the company's Formula 1 racing team.

In India to announce the strategic tie-up of the group's premium brand Sisley with the Tata Group's retail venture Trent, Benetton spoke to Prasad Sangameshwaran on how the tie-up will help in ensuring a rapid growth of the Sisley brand in India. Excerpts:

How big is Sisley as a part of Benetton's global portfolio. What were the reasons for launching it in India?

Sisley contributes about 15-18 per cent to the company's global sales. The upscale segment to which Sisley belongs is growing fast across the globe, including India. This is the right time for the brand to be in India. The tie-up with the Tata Group is a high entry point.

What prompted you to tie up with the Tata Group to retail Sisley considering that you have a 100 per cent subsidiary operating in India?

The Trent Group has a deep understanding of the local market. We bring to the table our understanding of fashion trends and apparel that's built to last. The tie-up will ensure an independent operation for Sisley and give it the required attention to grow faster.

You have a significant presence in Formula 1, which is beginning to attract a huge fan following in India. Do you have any plans to play up Benetton's association with the sport in India?

Yes. Formula 1 is an exciting way to build a brand. This is an interesting opportunity to highlight Benetton's association with the sport in India and help it stand out from the clutter in the market. We will be certainly looking at options to highlight Benetton's Formula 1 association in India.

Your other leisurewear brand Playlife has created ripples abroad. Are you looking at introducing it in India?

We will certainly look at launching the brand in India. But it will be difficult to indicate the time-frame by which the brand will be ready for launch. We have been in India for 15 years and the market has consistently outperformed our expectations in the last couple of years.

You also chair a merchant bank and are involved in private equity deals. Do you have any plans to invest in Indian businesses?

Private equity investments require a deep understanding of the local market conditions. We are active in Italy and France and are still in the process of building that capability elsewhere. We have no plans at present to launch our private equity business in India.