Bata India notches 2,000 stores, plots course to 3,000

It will focus on Tier III and Tier IV markets.

Bata India has achieved 2,000 retail stores across the country, and is now planning to expand its network to 3,000 stores nationwide over the coming years.

The company said in a press release that the expansion will focus on Tier III and Tier IV markets through a franchise-led growth model.

India is Bata’s largest market globally and its largest manufacturing and sourcing hub. It contributes close to one-fourth of Bata’s global revenues and supports sales of close to 50 million pairs annually.

The company is also accelerating investments in digital and omnichannel capabilities across online and offline touchpoints.

With nearly 90% of its stores operating as hyperlocal fulfilment hubs, Bata expects digital channels to contribute 20% to 25% of overall business over the next few years.

Moreover, as part of its retail transformation journey, Bata India has expanded its Zero-Based Merchandising format to around 775 stores and plans to scale this to nearly 900 stores by the end of 2026.

The initiative is helping enhance merchandising efficiency, improve inventory agility and deliver a more elevated in-store consumer experience.