Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, a subsidiary in India of Reliance Industries Ltd., has acquired a majority stake in Abraham & Thakore Exports Pvt Ltd. RRVL wants to use its subsidiary Reliance Brands Limited (RBL)’s deep understanding of Indian customers to grow brand Abraham & Thakore in the fashion and lifestyle categories.
Kevin Nigli, who became famously known as the & in Abraham & Thakore(A&T), joined David Abraham and Rakesh Thakore in 1992. A&T tapped into the power and potential of Indian handlooms through a modern, meaningful approach to weaving and design, which was unconventional and non-conformist.
A&T began its interpretation of Indian textiles with loungewear and home collection that were sold first at The Conran Shop, London, and then in prestigious global stores such as Liberty and Browns. Harrods and Selfridges followed. The brand was primarily sold in international stores for almost 15 years before it came to India and presented its first fashion show.
The brand’s philosophy is firmly rooted in understanding the cultural construct behind fashion. Abraham & Thakore’s Ikat saris are not only part of the permanent collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A), but they were also selected for Fabric of India in 2015, V&A’s first major exhibition exploring the world of Indian hand-made fabrics. Each collection explores the development of a quiet, modern design voice that draws on the rich vocabulary of Indian craft and design. The strong cultural language of the collection gives it a unique resonance with different markets and mindsets.
Abraham & Thakore has a distinctive design signature thanks to its innovative use of materials and new take on traditional textiles. Abraham & Thakore is a timeless brand that has a heightened appeal to Indian luxury consumers who are experiencing a generational shift in their consumption habits. We’re excited to partner up with Abraham & Thakore to share its unique expression of Indian craftsmanship to global consumers,” said Isha Amanani, director of RRVL.
“Abraham & Thakore are excited to partner up with RRVL. The company is responsible for redefining India’s luxury landscape. We will extend the presence of our brand through this partnership and will bring together fashion and lifestyle collections, which will include home furnishing and lounge wear,” said David Abraham.
David Abraham, Rakesh Takore, and Kevin Nigli, the design trio, will continue to be the creative leaders of the brand.
