In a recent event for the Indian retail and footwear industry, the iconic French shoe brand Kickers opened its first store in Chennai, India yesterday. The inauguration, held at the V R Mall in Chennai, was officiated by Etienne Rolland-Piegue, the Consul General of France in Chennai and Puducherry, marking the beginning of a promising journey for the brand in South Asia and the Middle East.
The store launch is part of a strategic 30-year agreement between Chennai-based Kothari Industrial Corporation Limited (KICL) and France’s renowned Royer Group.
This partnership aims to establish Kickers as a household name across India and expand its footprint to eight other countries, including Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal, Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Jinnah Rafiq Ahmed, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, KICL highlighted that the collaboration includes manufacturing Kickers footwear in India, a move that aligns with the “Make in India” initiative.
The company plans to export the footwear to neighboring countries, ensuring Kickers’ reach extends beyond Indian borders.
Kickers’ first store in Chennai offers a wide range of products, including sandals, boots, chappals, sneakers, and closed shoes for both men and women.
The inauguration was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Carl Boulanger, Economic Diplomacy Officer at Bureau de France, who emphasized the significance of the event as a symbol of strong France-India economic ties.
With plans to open several stores across India and beyond, KICL and Royer Group are positioning Kickers as a major player in the Indian footwear industry.
