
Tata Group-owned Trent Ltd reported a 9.5% year-on-year rise in net profit to ₹430 crore for the first quarter of FY26, marking its slowest quarterly profit growth in two years amid subdued consumer demand.
The retail company, which operates popular chains Westside and Zudio, saw its revenue grow 19% to ₹4,884 crore during the quarter ended June 2025. However, like-for-like growth in its fashion portfolio remained in the low single digits, highlighting ongoing pressure on discretionary spending.
Trent said revenue trends across micro markets remained healthy despite early monsoon conditions and broader geopolitical disruptions. The company added 12 stores during the quarter, ending the period with 1,043 outlets.
Focusing on strategic growth, Trent said it is enhancing its store portfolio in key markets while expanding into tier-2 and tier-3 cities. “Many of these markets are still emerging in terms of fashion adoption and consumption density, but they offer substantial long-term opportunities,” the company noted.
Margins for Westside and Zudio remained consistent. Meanwhile, newer categories like beauty and personal care, innerwear, and footwear contributed over 20% of total revenues, underscoring diversification in Trent’s product mix.
E-commerce continued to perform well, with online revenues growing 35% year-on-year and now contributing more than 6% of Westside’s overall sales.
Trent’s hypermarket chain Star Bazaar opened two stores and closed three during the quarter. The company is investing in technology and other initiatives to enhance customer experience and drive differentiation in a competitive market.
Commenting on the food retail segment, Chairman Noel Tata said, “The opportunity in the food space for the Star proposition is exciting, even though it remains competitive. We remain convinced that this business is well poised to deliver strong consumer value and long-term growth.”
Despite near-term headwinds, Trent remains focused on expansion, efficiency, and strengthening its presence in both metro and emerging markets.
(Source: PTI)