Reflections on FY2024 & What’s Next: Choudhary Footwear’s Path Forward

As FY2024 wraps up, it’s a good moment for us at Choudhary Footwear to pause and reflect on a year that tested our resilience, sharpened our focus, and pushed us to innovate like never before. With more than 35 years of experience in the footwear industry, our commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design and technology continues to be our guiding light.

The Evolving Landscape of India’s Footwear Industry

The Indian footwear industry has shown remarkable momentum—currently valued at ₹1.23 lakh crore (USD 17.89 billion), and expected to touch ₹1.91 lakh crore (USD 26 billion) by FY2028. A robust CAGR of 13% signals how rapidly the sector is evolving to meet global standards.

Yes, inflation took a toll on the mass market, but demand remained strong for premium, well-crafted leather footwear—especially across international markets. That’s where we stayed firmly grounded—offering premium leather shoes for men, women, and children with a focus on quality, durability, and global appeal.

Digital also had its say. The online footwear market alone crossed USD 5.07 billion by FY2024, contributing nearly 26% to the fashion e-commerce pie. At the same time, brick-and-mortar stores in Tier II and III cities saw solid traction—reminding us that the future lies in an omnichannel approach that respects both tradition and innovation.

FY2024: Our Highlights & Milestones

1. Doubling Down on Craftsmanship and Innovation

Throughout the year, we stayed committed to quality over quantity. We chose long-term value over short-term gains. Leading global brands like ASOS, NEXT, Eram, and Gemo continued to place their trust in us—something we don’t take for granted. Each order, each collection, was built on precision, craftsmanship, and a keen understanding of fashion-forward functionality.

2. Navigating Market Challenges Smartly

Rising raw material costs made things interesting—but not unmanageable. Thanks to efficient sourcing strategies and tight production planning, we kept things steady. Plus, every leather product we crafted came from LWG-certified tanneries—an important step toward sustainability and environmental accountability.

3. Staying Ahead on Compliance and Quality

The government’s rollout of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) brought new regulatory standards. Instead of seeing this as a hurdle, we turned it into a strength. Our facilities are equipped to meet these requirements, and our SMETA and ICS certifications ensure we stay compliant on all fronts. Our in-house quality systems helped us meet these standards well ahead of schedule—keeping operations smooth and client trust intact.

4. Deepening Global Partnerships

From launching an eco-conscious summer collection in Europe to ensuring quick delivery turnarounds in North America, FY2024 was full of meaningful partnerships. Listening to our clients’ needs and responding with speed and creativity helped us turn ideas into high-performing, market-ready footwear.

Looking Ahead: Our FY2025 Focus Areas

1. Scaling Sustainability with Non-Leather Footwear

As the demand for sustainable products grows, we’re investing in non-leather alternatives and cleaner production practices. But no matter the material, we’ll never compromise on design, comfort, or quality.

2. Leveraging Smart Technology

We’re bringing in tools like 3D modeling, digital sampling, and semi-automated processes to enhance precision and reduce waste—without losing the artistry that defines our shoes. This balance between tech and touch will define the next phase of our evolution.

3. Pushing Global Boundaries

We already have a strong footprint in the UK, France, and the USA. FY2025 will see us exploring exciting new markets like Denmark, South Africa, and Italy. With Indian footwear exports expected to contribute USD 8 billion by 2030, we’re ready to play a bigger role on the global stage.

4. Innovating for the Modern Consumer

People today want shoes that are stylish and comfortable. They want performance without sacrificing aesthetics. Our R&D team is working on hybrid footwear solutions that cater to these evolving tastes—delivering products that look great, feel great, and last longer.

Embracing Challenges, Seizing Opportunities

Yes, there are challenges—the unorganized sector still dominates about 70% of the Indian market, and counterfeit products remain an issue. But these also present opportunities for ethical, reliable manufacturers like us to stand out. As compliance and quality expectations rise, the demand for dependable partners will only grow—and we’re here to answer that call.

Closing Thoughts: Walking Forward with Purpose

Since 1987, Choudhary Footwear has stood for quality, trust, and innovation. FY2024 reaffirmed our belief in long-term thinking, strong partnerships, and customer-first solutions.

As we move into FY2025, we remain committed to pushing boundaries, building new relationships, and designing footwear that not only meets the moment—but defines it. For global retailers and importers looking for a reliable footwear manufacturer in India, we’re ready to talk, collaborate, and create the future—one step at a time.