The Indian stock market is generally considered a risky investment avenue. However, it is also a platform where a well-planned investment strategy, executed with sound judgment and patience, can yield exceptional returns for any common investor.
Tata Stock: Many stories in the stock market serve as inspiration for investors, but some examples not only inspire but also demonstrate how timely investments can be life-changing. One such story is that of Trent Ltd, the retail company of the Tata group, which has given its investors a return of over 58,000%.
Trent Limited's History and Growth
Trent Limited was established in 1952 and is part of the prestigious Tata Group. Initially, the company operated in a different sector. However, in 1998, when the Tata group sold its cosmetic company Lakmé to Hindustan Unilever, the funds were used to restructure Trent as a fully retail-focused company. This decision reflects the Tata group's foresight, as organized retail was just beginning in India at that time.
Trent's Identity in the Indian Retail Market
Considering the rapidly changing consumer behavior and urbanization in India, Trent Limited strengthened its retail business through three major brands:
Westside
- This is Trent's flagship fashion retail brand, launched in 1998.
- Westside offers apparel, footwear, accessories, and home decor for women, men, and children.
- Its specialty is providing stylish and quality products at moderate prices.
- Westside's network spans most major cities in India, and it has become a preferred brand for middle-class families.
Zudio
- Zudio was launched in 2016, specifically targeting budget-conscious customers.
- Its aim was to make fashion affordable for the common man.
- Zudio has rapidly expanded into smaller and medium-sized cities in a few years.
- Its inexpensive yet trendy collection is quite popular among young people and college students.
Star Bazaar
- This was Trent's attempt to enter the grocery and daily-needs segment.
- Star Bazaar are large hypermarkets offering groceries, fresh produce, household goods, and daily essentials.
- It provides a modern retailing experience, especially in metro and Tier-1 cities.
A ₹10 Share in 1999
In 1999, a Trent Limited share cost just ₹10. At that time, no one could have imagined that this share would reach such heights in the future. However, over time, the company improved its business model, increased the number of brands, and expanded its retail network. As a result, the share price reached ₹8300, giving investors a return of over 58,000%.
Current Status and Future Prospects
Although Trent's share price reached ₹8345 in 2024, it is around ₹4600 in 2025. Despite this, the company's financial position is b. In the March 2025 quarter, the company's net profit was ₹350 crore. Furthermore, brokerage firm Macquarie has given Trent shares a b rating and set a target price of ₹7000.
- Brokerage Firm Opinions
- Motilal Oswal has recommended buying Trent shares and set a target price of ₹7040.
- Axis Securities has also recommended buying Trent shares and set a target price of ₹7000.
- Bernstein has given Trent shares an "outperform" rating and set a target price of ₹8100.
Suggestions for Investors
Risk is always involved when investing in the stock market. However, Trent Limited's long track record and b financial position make it an attractive investment option. Investors are advised to exercise caution in their investment decisions and invest only on the basis of information obtained from reliable sources.
