Raymond Lifestyle has announced it will lower prices on select apparel following a recent government decision to reduce the tax on clothing. This is a response to the Indian government’s largest tax overhaul in eight years, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which adjusted the goods and services tax (GST) for garments priced under 2,500 rupees from 12% to 5%.
Starting September 22, Raymond plans to pass these savings to customers, particularly since about two-thirds of its clothing is priced below that threshold. The company will also reduce prices on items just above 2,500 rupees to bring them under the new tax rate.
This move is expected to resonate beyond Raymond as industry experts anticipate a wave of price cuts across various sectors. From small cars to everyday essentials, many businesses might follow suit. However, Amit Agarwal, Raymond’s CFO, believes that even with lower prices, increased sales volume should maintain revenue levels.
Raymond’s offerings include formal shirts that are often priced below 1,000 rupees, while many of its blazers and jackets remain above 2,500 rupees. Despite the price changes, Agarwal notes that customers tend to be willing to pay for these premium items.
Interestingly, global brands like Lacoste and Superdry may face challenges due to this tax change. Most of their products, including basic tees, are priced above 2,500 rupees, meaning they won’t benefit from the tax cut.
According to recent surveys, consumers are eager for price reductions, indicating that this adjustment could lead to a significant shift in shopping behavior. As people become more price-sensitive, brands will need to adapt quickly to stay relevant in a competitive market.
Overall, as the retail landscape shifts, it will be interesting to see how various companies navigate these changes and respond to consumer demands for affordability.
For more details, you can read about the tax changes on the Indian government’s official website.