Reflections on FY2024 and the Road Ahead: Choudhary Footwear’s Vision for the Future

As we close the books on FY2024, Choudhary Footwear looks back on a year defined by resilience, innovation, and steady growth. For over 35 years, we have blended heritage craftsmanship with global design standards, and this year has reaffirmed our belief that adaptability and strong partnerships are key to success in the evolving footwear industry.

The Indian Footwear Industry: Growth and Evolution

India’s footwear industry has continued its upward momentum, now valued at approximately ₹1.23 lakh crore (USD 17.89 billion). With projections pointing towards ₹1.91 lakh crore (USD 26 billion) by FY2028, the sector is growing at a CAGR of 13%, highlighting its increasing sophistication and alignment with international standards.

While inflationary pressures impacted mass-market sales, the demand for premium, well-crafted leather footwear remained strong—especially in export markets. At Choudhary Footwear, we stayed committed to delivering high-quality leather shoes for men, women, and children, reinforcing our position as a trusted footwear manufacturer in India.

The digital revolution also played a pivotal role. The online footwear market contributed nearly USD 5.07 billion by FY2024, making up 26% of India’s fashion e-commerce segment. Meanwhile, offline retail continues to thrive, particularly in Tier II and Tier III cities, requiring footwear brands to strike a balance between traditional and digital sales channels.

Choudhary Footwear’s FY2024 Milestones

1. Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

Throughout the year, we prioritized craftsmanship over short-term volume, delivering precision, reliability, and value to our global clients. Brands like ASOS, NEXT, Eram, and Gemo continued to trust our expertise, allowing us to uphold our legacy of high-quality, custom-designed footwear.

2. Strategic Adaptation to Market Trends

Navigating rising raw material costs was a key challenge in FY2024. Through efficient sourcing and production planning, we maintained stable margins. All leather was sourced from LWG-certified tanneries, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and compliance with global environmental standards.

3. Strengthening Compliance and Quality Standards

The introduction of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) by the Indian government brought new regulatory challenges. As one of the few Indian footwear manufacturers equipped to meet these stringent requirements, we embraced compliance as a competitive advantage. With SMETA and ICS certifications and a rigorous in-house quality control system, we successfully adapted ahead of schedule—ensuring uninterrupted operations and strengthening trust with our international partners.

4. Building Stronger Client Partnerships

FY2024 was a year of collaboration. From launching a sustainable summer collection in Europe to ensuring fast-turnaround deliveries in North America, our client-first approach led to innovative solutions and deeper relationships with retailers worldwide. Our ability to translate client visions into fashion-forward, commercially viable footwear continues to set us apart.

The Road Ahead: FY2025 and Beyond

1. Expanding Sustainable and Non-Leather Footwear

Sustainability remains a key focus as we invest in non-leather alternatives and eco-friendly manufacturing practices. The demand for sustainable footwear is rising, and we aim to cater to this growing segment while maintaining our hallmark of quality and style.

2. Integrating Advanced Technologies

From 3D modeling and digital sampling to automation in stitching and cutting, we are adopting technologies that enhance efficiency while preserving the artistry of footwear manufacturing. These innovations will streamline production, reduce waste, and elevate design precision.

3. Strengthening Global Expansion

With a strong presence in the UK, France, and the USA, we are now eyeing opportunities in Denmark, South Africa, and Italy. Given that Indian footwear exports are projected to contribute USD 8 billion by 2030, we aim to significantly expand our global reach.

4. Driving Product Innovation

Consumer preferences are shifting towards hybrid designs that combine style, comfort, and durability. Our R&D investments will focus on crafting footwear that meets these evolving demands, ensuring a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the Indian footwear industry faces challenges such as the unorganized sector (accounting for 70% of the market) and the rise of counterfeit products, these hurdles also create opportunities for ethical and reliable manufacturers. As regulations tighten and quality expectations rise, the demand for trustworthy, compliant, and design-forward footwear brands will only grow.

Choudhary Footwear is ready to meet this demand. With nearly four decades of expertise, a robust production setup, and a steadfast focus on quality, we continue to be a dependable partner for retailers and importers seeking consistency, innovation, and speed.

Final Thoughts: Looking Ahead with Confidence

Since 1987, Choudhary Footwear has been committed to crafting footwear that blends art, function, and global appeal. FY2024 reinforced this mission, paving the way for deeper client engagement, product innovation, and sustainable growth.

As we step into FY2025, our vision remains clear: to keep evolving, keep innovating, and keep delivering footwear that stands the test of time. For retailers and importers seeking a reliable footwear manufacturer in India, we welcome new conversations, collaborations, and successes—together.