Catalyst Brands opens its GCC in Bengaluru; hires 700 associates

Bengaluru: Catalyst Brands, formed from the merger of JCPenney and SPARC Group, has officially launched its India operations under the new name Catalyst Brands Business Services Ltd. This marks a new chapter for the Bengaluru-based global capability centre, which has a portfolio of six of America’s most recognised retail names: JCPenney, Aéropostale, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer, Lucky Brand, and Nautica. 

The Bengaluru GCC will now expand its capabilities to become a hub for the entire Catalyst portfolio. With deep expertise in IT, stores and payment systems, digital and ecommerce, supply chain, finance, merchandising, marketing, and data and analytics, the GCC in India will play a central role in driving efficiency, innovation, and growth for over 60 million customers worldwide, the company said in a statement. 

“By transitioning to an integrated services model that supports multiple functions and capabilities, India is not just supporting Catalyst Brands—it’s helping shape its future,” said Marc Rosen, Chief Executive Officer, Catalyst Brands. 

Formed in 2025, Catalyst Brands is a $9 billion global retail powerhouse with 1,800 stores and a strong presence across e-commerce and wholesale channels. 

With over 700 associates and nearly a decade of operational excellence, the centre has been instrumental in building global technology and enterprise systems for JCPenney. As Catalyst Brands, it will take this impact further—removing redundancies, enabling faster collaboration, and shaping the future of a multi-brand retail ecosystem.

“India has long been essential to our success. Now, as we unite six heritage brands under one roof, our Bengaluru team will be key to streamlining operations, embedding standardisation, and driving operational excellence across the board,” said Kevin Harper, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Catalyst Brands.