Trent net profit up 25% despite cost pressures and stiff competition

Net profit rose to ₹468 crore in the July-September quarter.

Net profit rose to ₹468 crore in the July-September quarter, while revenue from operations increased 22% to ₹5,873 crore, the owner of fashion chains Westside and Zudio said on Thursday.

Trent said inflation remained elevated across cost categories, with geopolitical uncertainty, interest-rate trends and supply-chain disruptions contributing to cost pressures. The company said sourcing initiatives and supplier engagement were helping it manage these headwinds while maintaining relative stability in its value proposition.

"It was encouraging to witness a more robust consumer sentiment despite the relatively inflationary backdrop. We are increasingly expanding our presence across diverse markets, including in many tier-2 and tier-3 locations. The compelling reception we are witnessing gives us the conviction to double down into more hinterlands," said Noel Tata, who would retire as chairman and director on November 11, in line with Tata Group governance guidelines.

Bahram Vakil will take over as chairman. Tata will become chairman emeritus from November 12. Like-for-like growth across its fashion portfolio was in the mid-single digits,

Trent said in its investor presentation, suggesting that overall revenue growth also reflected its expanding store base.

The retailer continued to expand its store network, opening 19 Zudio outlets and 10 Westside stores during the quarter, while consolidating two Zudio stores. It had 999 Zudio stores, including seven in the United Arab Emirates, and 311 Westside stores at the end of September.