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With a rich legacy of nearly a century, Bata India has cemented its place as one of the most trusted footwear brands in the country. Today, it operates over 1,954 stores across 499 cities, including 624 franchise stores and 1,330+ company-owned outlets. Known for blending fashion with comfort, the brand serves over 260,000 customers daily and sells nearly 50 million pairs annually through its omnichannel network. In this exclusive interview, Abhinav Sharan, AVP – Franchise Operations & Retail Centre of Excellence at Bata India, shares insights into the brand’s aggressive expansion plans, franchise-led growth, digital transformation, and how it continues to stay relevant to modern Indian consumers.
What is your take on franchising as a business model?
At Bata India, franchising is a strategic growth engine—enabling scalable expansion while tapping into local market expertise. It has been instrumental in deepening our footprint across diverse geographies, especially Tier 2 to Tier 5 cities, where agility and regional know-how drive success.
The model ensures brand consistency while empowering entrepreneurs with the credibility of a legacy name, proven retail formats, and an extensive product portfolio. It complements our company-owned operations by accelerating market access and fostering shared value. In today’s dynamic retail environment, franchising helps strike the right balance between operational efficiency and hyper-local customer engagement. It remains central to Bata’s omnichannel strategy—bringing us closer to our consumers, both physically and experientially.
How has the franchise model aided your business growth?
The franchise model has been pivotal in accelerating Bata India’s retail growth, particularly in untapped, high-potential markets. It has strengthened our presence in Tier II, III, and IV cities, where local partnerships are essential for sustained success.
By working with regional franchisees, we've enhanced last-mile connectivity while ensuring a unified brand experience. This partnership merges Bata’s legacy, product innovation, and retail expertise with the agility and on-ground insights of our franchisees. The model has not only expedited our expansion but also fostered a more integrated retail ecosystem—driving job creation, deeper market penetration, and elevated customer service. Franchising remains a core growth engine, helping us stay accessible and relevant to the ever-evolving Indian consumer.
How have you incorporated digitally enabled products & services to grow your brand?
Digital transformation is at the heart of Bata India’s strategy to elevate customer engagement and operational efficiency. We've built a robust omnichannel ecosystem that seamlessly connects online and offline experiences—offering services like endless aisles, click-and-collect, and home delivery.
Our revamped mobile ordering application for franchise partners now offers an intuitive shopping experience, supported by suggestive ordering, recommendations, and real-time inventory visibility. On the operational front, we’ve integrated advanced analytics and digital tools to better forecast demand, optimise inventory, and streamline supply chain efficiency.
Our website and mobile platforms provide a smooth, personalized shopping experience. On the marketing front, we’ve amplified our digital footprint through performance-driven campaigns, influencer collaborations, social commerce, and loyalty programs—aligning with the preferences of today’s digital-first consumer. These initiatives have broadened our reach, increased agility, and reinforced Bata’s relevance in an increasingly connected world.
Quick Facts – Bata India
- Presence in Indian Cities (Franchise Stores): 499
- Franchise Stores: 624
- Company-Owned Stores: 1,330+
- Preferred Locations: Tier 1 to Tier 5 cities, ground floor in prime locations
- Expansion Plans: 700+ franchise stores by December 2025
- USP: Stylish, affordable footwear with strong local legacy
