Apparel Group plans 150 new stores in Saudi Arabia in 2025: CEO

Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group plans

Apparel Group plans to open 150 new stores this year, reaching 1,000 stores in Saudi Arabia by the end of next year, according to CEO Neeraj Teckchandani.

Speaking to Argaam at the Retail Leaders Circle Global Forum 2025, he said the group is among the region’s top five retailers, with around 750 stores in Saudi Arabia.

The company signed 28 new brand agreements last year and acquired brand rights from other operators, expecting strong growth over the next three to five years.

Saudi Arabia generates 35–36% of the group’s Gulf revenue, a share Teckchandani expects to rise to 55–60% in three years, driven by expansion and investment in digital and logistics infrastructure.

Founded in the Middle East in 1996, Apparel Group now runs over 2,300 stores in 14 countries, representing 85 global brands and employing more than 25,000 people.

The company focuses on competitive pricing and plans to double its private label brand, R&B, from 50 to 100 stores this year.

Higher inflation has intensified competition and squeezed profit margins but also created new opportunities in value-focused retail.

Teckchandani said the group’s digital platform is seeing strong growth alongside brand websites, strengthening its omnichannel strategy.

The company is also investing in distribution centers and training programs to develop local talent through its Retail Academy.