India is where majority of our products are made

European shoemaker Astor Mueller, which retails brands such as Bugatti and Bagatt in India, expects India to become its largest market in the next five years.

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The shoemaker was among the first few European shoemakers to recognize India's capability in shoemaking and consequently established a strong manufacturing base here since early 2000's. Currently, India is where majority of its products are made, accounting for over two-thirds of its global sourcing and growing. Recently, it started opening retail stores, and now has three outlets in India. We are resolute in establishing a strong presence in the Indian market and we intend to establish a robust retail presence in the top 10 cities over the next 18 months, Tim Mueller, chairman of the AstorMueller inform N Bobo Meitei. Excerpts.

What factors have motivated Astor Mueller to expand its footprint in India?

Over the past decade, Indian footwear market has seen tremendous growth along with the economy in general. Also, with a young population and strong economic fundamentals, India is set to grow rapidly for the foreseeable future.

Indian consumers are also evolving in their choices and preferences. They have a distinctive fashion sense and largely prioritize their personal preferences over perceived global trends. Moreover, we are discussing a customer base which is consuming luxury brands at an ever-increasing pace on the one hand, but also demands value for money on the other.

All these factors make India one of the most important markets for this decade and considering we already have an established manufacturing base in the country, expanding into retail was the next logical step in our Indian journey.

Can you discuss how the two brands are positioned in the Indian market?