20 July 2006 — Bentonville (AR): Wal-Mart Stores is said to be in talks with DLF Universal, an Indian real estate firm, to explore the possibility franchise deal, according to reports.
Current Indian legislation only permits multiple-brand retailers such as Wal-Mart to operate as franchises or cash-and-carries.
The Indian organised retail market is reportedly worth $6 billion, approximately three percent of the overall consumer market and is expected to grow between 25 and 30 percent over the coming four years.
When asked by OPI, Wal-Mart would neither confirm nor deny the accuracy of the reports.
