Franchise channel now accounts for over 35% of Bata India’s total retail network of 1980 stores
India, 24.03.26: Bata, India’s most trusted footwear brand, has crossed the milestone of 700 franchise stores across the country, marking a significant step in its retail expansion journey and reinforcing the growing importance of the franchise-led model in taking the brand deeper into emerging India.
The milestone reflects Bata India’s continued focus on widening access, strengthening local relevance, and growing by creating business opportunities for our partners. Around 70% of Bata’s franchise stores are located in Tier 2, 3 and 4 markets. Going forward, Bata expects even faster and stronger franchise momentum as it plans to double its rate of new store openings.
Commenting on the milestone, Badri Beriwal, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Business Development Officer, Bata India, said, “The franchise model has become a strong pillar of our retail expansion strategy because it brings together the strengths of both partners. Our franchise partners bring deep local market understanding and on-ground operational efficiency, while Bata brings strong brand equity, consumer trust, and a wide portfolio. This allows us to grow with speed and discipline, especially in markets beyond metros where branded footwear demand is rising steadily.
For franchise partners, the model offers an attractive business proposition with an initial investment of around just ₹35-40 lakh it is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs in India. For Bata, it enables faster market entry and expansion with relatively lower capital deployment, while strengthening presence in high-potential markets.
With this milestone, Bata India continues to strengthen a retail model that combines national brand strength with local execution, supporting its broader ambition of serving consumers across regions, categories and price points with greater accessibility and consistency.
