“The Fashion business has three pillars: Newness, Responsiveness, and Agility,” said Mr. Alok Dubey, CEO (R&B) of Apparel Group India. He addressed a captivated audience during an exclusive webinar organised by the Badruka School of Management (BSM) in Hyderabad. The Future of Retail: Luxury, Leadership & MBA Pathways was hosted by Ms. Nidhi Reddy, Senior Partner at 9.9 Education.
With over 35 years of experience in the retail industry, Mr. Dubey has held leadership roles in prestigious organisations, including Reliance Brands, Arvind Fashions, Titan, and The Times of India Group. He has also helmed renowned youth-focused brands such as US Polo Assn, Flying Machine, and Ed Hardy. During the webinar, Mr. Dubey shared invaluable insights into his journey, the evolution of the retail industry, and what aspiring leaders can expect in the future.
Born and raised in Uttar Pradesh, Mr. Dubey’s early life was filled with aspirations that eventually led him to retail and management. Reflecting on his MBA journey, he highlighted how it transformed his thought process, honed his analytical skills, and opened doors to opportunities that defined his career trajectory. A pivotal moment was his summer training with the Times of India Group, where he networked with senior leaders and discovered his passion for the dynamic world of retail.
During his tenure at Titan Industries, he led the successful launch of Sonata watches in India, an achievement he proudly recounted. In an era before social media, convincing consumers to adopt new products relied heavily on trust, seller relationships, and innovative strategies Mr. Dubey mastered through hands-on experience.
The retail industry has evolved significantly, especially in understanding consumer behaviour. Mr. Dubey emphasised how modern consumers, particularly the youth, expect instant gratification and resonate with brands that reflect their values. Drawing from his experience with Swatch watches, he underscored the importance of creativity and new communication modes in engaging this audience.
Reflecting on the challenges posed by supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Dubey introduced the three foundational pillars of the fashion business:
- Newness – Keeping products and strategies fresh to meet ever-changing consumer demands.
- Responsiveness – Adapting quickly to market shifts.
- Agility – Ensuring flexibility across operations.
He credited his MBA for equipping him with the tools to navigate these complexities, particularly in retail planning, supply chain management, and data analysis.
Looking ahead, Mr. Dubey highlighted how AI is set to revolutionise the retail industry. From personalised customer insights to streamlined operations, he emphasised the importance of incorporating AI-centric education in retail programs to prepare future leaders. He encouraged students to remain curious, seek out problems to solve, and stay attuned to their surroundings – qualities he deems essential for tomorrow’s leaders.
Regarding sustainability, Mr. Dubey discussed the rise of “pre-loved” products in India, noting their current appeal among affluent consumers. He stressed the need for sustainable practices across the product lifecycle, from ethical manufacturing to responsible disposal. He argued that sustainability should extend beyond products to include internal organisational practices.
During the interactive Q&A session, Mr. Dubey addressed several pressing topics:
- Zepto’s 10-Minute Café: He acknowledged the environmental impact of ultra-fast delivery services and raised concerns about the pressures placed on delivery partners and logistics systems.
- Balancing Customer Insights and Privacy: With AI’s growing role, he urged consumers to remain cautious about sharing personal information online. He advised future leaders to prioritise ethical practices in leveraging AI.
As the session drew to a close, Mr. Dubey emphasised three key skills for students aspiring to build careers in retail:
- Embracing the pillars of newness, responsiveness, and agility.
- Cultivating adaptability and resilience.
- Maintaining an inquisitive and solution-oriented mindset.
Through his extensive experience and candid reflections, Mr. Dubey provided a roadmap for navigating the exciting yet challenging world of retail. His insights reaffirmed the transformative power of an MBA in shaping future leaders, equipping them with the skills to excel in a rapidly evolving industry.
About the Speaker: Mr. Alok Dubey is a seasoned retail professional with over three decades of experience in leadership roles across top organisations. Known for his innovative strategies and commitment to excellence, he inspires the next generation of retail leaders.
About the Event: This webinar was part of Badruka School of Management’s ongoing efforts to provide its students with industry insights and thought leadership, fostering a holistic learning environment for tomorrow’s business leaders.