Castle AY25. Photo: Pexels
India's luxury market is undergoing a remarkable transformation, emerging as a global powerhouse driven by economic growth, evolving consumer preferences, and increased global exposure. As of 2025, the market is poised for substantial expansion, offering lucrative opportunities for luxury brands worldwide.
Current Market Landscape
India's luxury goods sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20%, aiming to reach $200 billion by 2030. This surge is fueled by a burgeoning affluent population, with the country adding over 7,000 new millionaires annually, and a significant increase in high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs)
Key Growth Drivers
Rising Affluence: The expanding middle class and the emergence of dual-income households without children (DINKs) are contributing to increased discretionary spending on luxury goods. Aspirational spending is growing at an annual rate of 30%, reflecting a shift towards premium consumption.
Urbanisation and Tier-II City Expansion: Luxury consumption is no longer confined to metropolitan areas. Tier-II cities like Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, and Pune are witnessing annual growth rates of 15-20% in luxury spending, indicating a broader geographic spread of luxury demand.
Digital Influence and Global Exposure: Increased internet penetration and global travel have exposed Indian consumers to international luxury brands, enhancing their desire for high-end products. Over the past three years, more than 50 international luxury brands have entered the Indian market, spanning categories such as fashion, travel, leisure, and gourmet foods.
Sector-Specific Insights
Automobiles: Luxury car manufacturers are experiencing robust demand, particularly in smaller cities. Mercedes-Benz India plans to expand by adding 20 new dealerships and service centers in 2025, primarily targeting smaller cities. This expansion is driven by demand from younger, well-traveled generations who are now leading family businesses and are more inclined towards luxury spending.
Real Estate: The luxury real estate market is thriving, with 71% of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs) planning to invest in luxury properties in 2024. This growth is driven by a desire for premium living spaces in prime locations, with an increasing focus on investment opportunities.
Watches and Jewellry: Swiss watch exports to India have surged, with a 20% increase in the first seven months of 2024, reaching SFr139.5 million, despite a global decline of 2.4%. This growth follows a 41.4% increase from 2022, making it the highest rise reported by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry.
Predictions for the Future
The trajectory of India's luxury market suggests sustained growth across various sectors:
Fashion and Accessories: The fashion and accessories segment remains one of the most significant contributors to India’s luxury market. This sector has experienced a steady increase in revenue, growing from ₹6 billion in 2018 to an estimated ₹31 billion by 2029.
Experiential Luxury: There is a growing preference for experiences over material possessions among luxury buyers. A survey revealed that 55% of high-net-worth individuals are inclined to spend more on unique experiences, such as luxury travel, exclusive events, and immersive brand experiences.
Digital Integration: E-commerce platforms are launching specialized luxury sections, providing consumers with access to premium, authentic luxury brands across apparel, accessories, and lifestyle categories. These platforms adopt a "slow commerce" model, focusing on curated selections and storytelling, creating an enhanced online shopping experience.
Conclusion
India's luxury market is on an accelerated growth path, driven by economic prosperity, evolving consumer behaviors, and increased global connectivity. Brands that adapt to these dynamics, focusing on personalization, digital engagement, and expansion into emerging markets within India, are poised to thrive in this burgeoning landscape
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