US-based Kenneth Cole has entered into a partnership with Reliance Brands, which is a unit of Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries, to open retail stores across India.

Under the partnership, the two firms will open 25 stores across India over the next five years offering collection of men and women's apparel and accessories. Kenneth Cole and Reliance Brands have signed a licencing agreement for retail and premium wholesale distribution in the country.

Five planned stores will be opened in the next three years and another twenty will come up in the following five years. According to Reliance Brands President and CEO Darshan Mehta, Kenneth Cole is an iconic American brand that "encapsulates a lifestyle that is chic, urban and is infused with modern style and sensibility that perfectly resonates with the contemporary Indian consumers".

The two firms will initially open dual-gender stores in major cities in the country. These stores will offer men's and women's footwear, clothing and accessories under the Kenneth Cole New York and the Kenneth Cole Reaction labels.

Kenneth Cole Productions CEO Paul Blum said that he sees a great growth potential in India. He added that the economy is growing and thus the company wants to create a presence in the Indian market.