Reliance Brands Holding UK Limited (RBL UK), a subsidiary of Reliance Brands Limited, has formed a joint venture (JV) with Mothercare, a British retailer specialising in products for parents and young children.  

RBL UK will hold a 51% stake in the JV, with the Mothercare global brand retaining 49%. RBL UK will acquire its stake for a cash payment of £16m ($20.7m). 

The JV will control the Mothercare brand and its intellectual property assets in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Bangladesh. 

The JV, which will serve as the franchisor of the Mothercare brand in the five countries, will combine the strengths of both companies to drive growth in the region. 

Reliance Brands Limited managing director Darshan Mehta said: "Mothercare has been a trusted name for parents in India for years, and this joint venture marks an exciting new chapter in our partnership. 

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside the talented Mothercare team, and this deeper collaboration reflects the strong relationship we’ve built over time. I’m excited about the opportunities this new era brings as we continue to expand the brand’s presence across South Asia."  

Since acquiring rights to the Mothercare brand in India in 2018,  Reliance Brands has launched 87 stores in 25 cities and established an online presence.  

Mothercare operates more than 450 retail stores globally. 

Chairman Clive Whiley said: “Today’s agreement strengthens our operations in South Asia through an even closer working relationship with Reliance, our existing valued franchise partner, and underlines the intrinsic value of the Mothercare brand strength.” 

In September 2023, Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd (RRVL) entered an agreement to acquire Ed-a-Mamma, a children’s and maternity wear clothing brand.