Bata India has crossed 2,000 retail stores and is now aiming to expand its network to 3,000 outlets over the next few years, with growth driven primarily through a franchise-led model in Tier III and Tier IV cities.
India continues to be Bata’s largest global market and its biggest manufacturing and sourcing hub, contributing nearly one-fourth of the Bata Group’s global revenue. The company sells close to 50 million pairs of footwear annually through its company-owned stores, franchise outlets, multi-brand retailers and digital channels.
The company said its future retail expansion will largely be driven by franchise stores to accelerate its presence in smaller towns while maintaining a balanced portfolio of company-owned and partner-operated outlets.
Bata is also scaling up its omnichannel operations, with nearly 90% of its stores now serving as hyperlocal fulfilment centres. The company expects digital channels to contribute 20–25% of its overall business over the next few years as it continues to invest in app-based engagement and seamless shopping experiences.
As part of its retail transformation strategy, Bata has expanded its Zero-Based Merchandising (ZBM) format to around 775 stores and plans to increase the count to nearly 900 stores by the end of 2026.
The initiative is designed to enhance merchandising efficiency, improve inventory management and elevate the in-store customer experience.
The company said its continued investments in retail expansion, omnichannel capabilities and franchise-led growth are expected to support the next phase of its expansion in the Indian footwear market.
Bharat Tex Special Report 2026 
