Bata plans hundreds more stores within the next three years
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Footwear brand Bata in planning to launch 100 new stores in India against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.
The openings are part of the firm’s plans to have 500 more outlets operating by 2023 in the territory above its current 1500 stores. The move is expected to improve Bata’s market penetration in semi-urban and rural areas.
“We will open around 100 stores this year,” said Bata India chairman Ashwani Windlass, “and 80 percent of these outlets will be opened through a franchise model in tier-II and tier-III cities.”
Stores will be selectively opened in areas that performed comparatively well economically despite the impact of the pandemic. More urban customers may be targeted with mobile shops driving into more remote regions and setting up temporarily in residential complexes.
The firm is also boosting its efforts in e-commerce, making deliveries in more than 1300 cities. Bata management currently estimates that online sales make up 5 or 6 percent of total sales.
Questions & Answers
Q.How many new stores does Bata plan to open specifically in India this year?
How many new stores does Bata plan to open specifically in India this year?
Bata plans to open approximately 100 new stores in India this year. Most of these new outlets, around 80%, will be operated through a franchise model in tier-II and tier-III cities.
Q.What is Bata's overall expansion target for its Indian retail presence by 2023?
What is Bata's overall expansion target for its Indian retail presence by 2023?
By 2023, Bata aims to have an additional 500 outlets operating in India. This expansion will significantly increase its current network of 1,500 stores in the territory.
Q.How are e-commerce sales currently contributing to Bata's total revenue?
How are e-commerce sales currently contributing to Bata's total revenue?
Bata management currently estimates that online sales account for 5 to 6 percent of its total sales. The company is actively boosting its e-commerce efforts, delivering to over 1,300 cities.