Renuka Jagtiani stands at the helm of Landmark Group, a conglomerate that redefined retail in the Middle East. But her journey wasn’t always about success; it was about vision, resilience, and the sheer will to build something lasting from the ground up. Under her leadership, the Landmark Group evolved from a local business into a global retail powerhouse, but it is Renuka’s unique blend of intuition, bold strategy, and unwavering commitment to both customers and employees that truly sets her apart.
Renuka entered retail in 1993, joining her husband Micky Jagtiani’s family business, Landmark Group, at a time when the Middle East retail scene was evolving. Recognising untapped potential, she charted an innovative course that would redefine regional fashion and consumer experiences. Her breakthrough came with the launch of Splash, a fashion brand offering trendy, affordable apparel for the region’s youthful, dynamic demographic. It wasn’t just clothing—it was a response to the market’s desire for stylish yet budget-friendly options, capturing the essence of a new generation’s global aspirations. Splash quickly became a cultural phenomenon, reshaping regional retail.
Crafting a Global Retail Legacy
Renuka’s foresight extended beyond just a single brand. Her leadership was about scaling up. Over the next few decades, Landmark Group expanded exponentially under her guidance, adding brands like Max, Lifestyle, and Centrepoint to its portfolio. Each brand represented a unique fusion of style, value, and accessibility, enabling the group to cater to diverse market segments.
But Renuka didn’t stop at regional dominance. She set her sights on a global vision, making bold moves into international markets across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Landmark’s presence grew in over 24 countries with more than 2,200 stores—a direct result of Renuka’s strategic planning, calculated risk-taking, and meticulous attention to detail. She didn’t just expand; she elevated the brand’s global reputation, ensuring that Landmark Group would be synonymous with high-quality retail experiences no matter where it operated.
Pioneering E-Commerce Transformation
While many companies were hesitant about embracing the digital revolution, Renuka saw e-commerce not as a trend but as the future of retail. In the early days of e-commerce, when many retailers were still testing the waters, Renuka led Landmark Group’s digital transformation with clear intent and purpose. The group’s foray into online retail wasn’t a mere add-on; it was an integral part of her vision to create a seamless, omnichannel retail experience.
Her understanding of consumer behaviour allowed the company to anticipate trends and respond with agility. By merging physical and online shopping experiences, Renuka turned Landmark into one of the leading e-commerce players in the Middle East, bringing the convenience of online shopping to consumers while maintaining the personalised service and experience of brick-and-mortar stores.
This digital pivot not only expanded the group’s reach but also positioned Landmark Group as a forward-thinking, customer-centric company in an increasingly tech-driven world.
Purpose Beyond Profits
Renuka’s leadership goes beyond just scaling revenue. She is committed to creating a lasting, positive impact on society. Landmark Group’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is a direct reflection of her values. Under her direction, the group has initiated numerous philanthropic projects, focusing on education, sustainability, and supporting marginalised communities.
One of her proudest achievements is the Landmark Group Foundation, which focuses on driving social impact across the region. Whether it’s through donations to local charities, fostering talent development, or supporting environmental sustainability, Renuka has ensured that the success of the business is not just measured by profits but by the difference it makes in the world.
Her approach to CSR is rooted in the belief that businesses have a moral responsibility to contribute to society. She has ensured that Landmark Group leads by example, with employees and customers alike participating in a broader mission to uplift communities and create a more sustainable future.
Innovation as a Way of Life
Renuka’s leadership is not defined by following the conventional. Her innovation isn’t about launching new products or services for the sake of novelty but about rethinking what retail can truly mean. Under her leadership, Landmark Group launched homegrown brands that are now pillars of the regional retail landscape. From Home Centre to Shoexpress, these brands were not merely retail concepts—they were deeply attuned to the desires of the market.
Her approach to innovation is holistic, ensuring that every product, every brand, and every experience reflects a deep understanding of evolving consumer needs. Landmark Group’s ability to anticipate changes in consumer behaviour—whether through sustainability efforts, product innovation, or enhanced customer service—has been one of Renuka’s strongest legacies.
Recognition and a Legacy of Leadership
Renuka Jagtiani’s journey is one of vision, determination, and impact. Her transformative leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including being named among the world’s most influential women in business. However, for Renuka, it is not the accolades that drive her; it is the responsibility to leave a legacy of empowerment and excellence.
Her leadership has inspired an entire generation of entrepreneurs, executives, and employees to think beyond the ordinary and strive for greatness. Landmark Group is not just a business—under Renuka’s stewardship, it has become an institution of innovation, values, and enduring impact.
