Women leaders are transforming India’s fashion retail industry with innovation, strategic vision, and customer-centric approaches. From luxury to fast fashion and D2C brands, they are driving growth, sustainability, and inclusivity while redefining brand storytelling and digital transformation.
Despite challenges like gender biases and work-life balance, they continue to set new benchmarks and influence Indian fashion globally. This special feature highlights inspiring women who have redefined business strategies, introduced breakthrough innovations, and led their brands to success.
In this edition, we are featuring a visionary leader making waves in the fashion retail industry, Preeti Chopra, Chief Retail Expansion & Projects, FabIndia Ltd.
A Commerce graduate & a PG in Advertising & PR, Preeti Chopra’s career started as a search for flexibility but turned into a deep-rooted passion for business development and retail expansion.
Over the years, her role in retail has undergone a significant transformation, shaped by experience, industry trends and evolving business needs.
In the early stages of her career particularly at M&B footwear, her focus was on understanding BD fundamentals i.e. identifying opportunities, building relationships and learning the nuances of retail growth.
Once she moved to Blackberrys, her role became more strategic. This shift was a more data driven approach, integrating insights into decision making and ensuring expansion was aligned with business objectives.
At Raymond, she drove expansion while launching new brands under the company’s portfolio. This demanded a more holistic perspective – balancing brand positioning, market penetration as well as operational execution. It was here that Preeti honed her ability to scale brands efficiently.
Current Role & Responsibilities
Preeti currently works as Chief Retail Expansion & Projects at FabIndia, her role having evolved into a strategic leadership position. At FabIndia, she oversees large scale expansion, drives innovation in retail formats and works closely with cross functional teams to ensure sustainable and profitable growth.
Challenges & Triumphs in Leadership
A persistent bias has always underscored the ongoing struggle for women in leadership, particularly in the real estate side of the retail business, where breaking stereotypes and advocating for equal opportunities remain an uphill battle – a notion Preeti smashed through as she reached the top of the ladder.
Key Strengths & Areas for Growth
- Strengths: Boundless energy; Bringing innovative ideas to the table; Viewing challenges as opportunities; Believing impossible simply means I’M POSSIBLE!
- Areas for Improvement: Always striving for excellence and getting caught up in the smallest of details.
Game Changing Decisions for Brand
Preeti has always taken initiatives to ensure decision making is not solely based on experience but supported by data.
Career Aspirations & Future Goals
To cultivate strong leadership skills, drive business growth by staying ahead of trends and leveraging technology for strategic success. Make a meaningful impact by fostering a positive environment, creating opportunities for young professionals to grow.
Essential Skills for Success
- A combination of strategic thinking, adaptability and resilience
- A willingness to pivot and embrace change
3 Emerging Trends & Technologies Shaping Retail
- Omnichannel & Phygital retail
- AR & VR enhancing in-store digital experience
- AI-powered personalisation and automation
Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders
Own your confidence and never underestimate your worth. Your ability to stand tall, speak up and trust your instinct will set you apart.
Life Mantra
Live with ‘Go win the world’ attitude
