Lee opens new store in city

Chennai, Oct 18 (UNI) Lee, the leading denim fashion brand, will open 11 new exclusive stores all over India by March 2007 at a total investment of about Rs 15 to 16 crore.

Talking to UNI after the inauguration of its third exclusive outlet in the city today, VF-Arvind Brands CEO Darshan Mehta said at present Lee had 70 outlets across the country.

''We will open 11 new exclusive outlets in India by March 2007, including Delhi and Chandigarh,'' he said.

The 3000 sq ft Chennai outlet was the second largest Lee showroom after the one at Bangalore opened last month.

Lee was expecting an annual sales turnover of Rs three crore per annum from the new showroom, which had come up with an investment of Rs 1.5 crore.

Mr Darshan said on display at the new showroom was the latest fall winter collections. ''Women can choose from cut slim jeans to the regular boot cuts with interesting detailing. Gorgeous knits with a splash of colours, sweat shirts, crocheted pullovers, denim linen shirts are all up for grabs at the store, which also contains 101, X-line and Lee by Reds,'' he added.

Inaugurating the new outlet, Bollywood star Aftab Shivdasani said Lee range jeans were affordable for every section of the people.

Speaking on the occasion, DJ of MTV fame Anusha said Lee collectons were getting better and better. It had varities for all age groups and the fit and comfort levels were extremely good, she said.

UNI GV AJ 1456