• TIMBERLAND’S INDIA DEAL: The Timberland Co. has partnered with Reliance Brands Ltd., part of Reliance Industries Ltd., to distribute its apparel and footwear in India. The merchandise will be available through Timberland-branded retail stores and premium department stores in major cities throughout the country. A Timberland spokeswoman said the company could not disclose the number of Timberland stores Reliance expects to open in India. “With its rapidly growing fashion and retail sectors, we believe India will become a key market for us,” said Jeff Swartz, president and chief executive officer of Timberland. “Reliance Brands has a wealth of experience in launching and successfully distributing international brands in India.”