Is Costco next in line to come to India?

More exciting news on the retail front. The world's fifth largest retailer, Costco Wholesale Corp. might be heading to India as it looks to increase its presence in the world's emerging markets. The Economic Times reports that the Washington based company has 504 warehouses where it sells branded products in bulk quantities at discounted rates. It's largest competitor in the US is Wal-Mart's wholesale format store called Sam's Club. India would be an ideal market for the company since there is very little competition, with only Metro Cash & Carry operating in this format.

Sources said Costco may look to partner a local retail powerhouse, with several names, including Kishore Biyani’s Future Group, being touted as possible partner. Mr Biyani denied talks, stating that Future was set to unveil a wholesale retail business on its own.