Archies Launches ‘Archies Express’ Format, Plans 20 New Stores in FY26

Archies has rolled out a new retail concept, Archies Express, as part of its broader strategy to revitalise its offline footprint and deepen connect with younger consumers. The company aims to launch 20 Archies Express outlets across India in FY26.

The compact-format outlets are designed to deliver a quicker, more convenient shopping experience while staying true to the brand’s core ethos of emotional connection and self-expression.

Commenting on the launch, Varun Moolchandani and Hanisha Gandhi, Executive Directors, Archies, said, “Archies Express is our way of evolving with the times while remaining true to the emotional DNA of the brand. Today’s consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z, seek products that blend style, function, and personal expression. With this format, we are creating a retail experience that is faster, more accessible, and deeply relevant, while still carrying forward the warmth and nostalgia that Archies is known for.”

The inaugural Archies Express store is set to open at Unity One Elegante Mall in Netaji Subhash Place, Delhi. The company noted that the site was chosen for its high footfall and its catchment of young professionals, students, and families.

Unlike its conventional outlets, the Express format introduces a contemporary store design paired with a tightly curated assortment centred on high-velocity categories, including gifting essentials, lifestyle accessories, stationery, soft toys, chocolates, fragrances, and seasonal merchandise. The concept is designed to encourage product discovery and spur impulse buying.

Archies said the rollout will follow a cost-efficient and scalable model with lower capital expenditure per store, enabling faster expansion and improved unit economics. The expansion strategy will include a mix of metro cities and high-potential Tier 2 markets, with a focus on mall-based locations. The new format is positioned as a complement to the company’s existing stores rather than a replacement.

Archies Limited has been active in the greeting cards and gifting space for over 45 years. Its portfolio spans photo albums, baby books, jewellery and accessories, gift hampers, perfumes, stuffed toys, and allied merchandise. The company operates a network of more than 1,000 sales touchpoints nationwide, comprising company-owned outlets, retail partners, franchisees, and distributors across India.