Crocs India, Metro Brands strengthen partnership to boost footwear retail in India

In a significant move for India’s retail footwear sector, Crocs India Limited (CIL) and Metro Brands Limited (MBL) have announced the extension of their partnership, marking a milestone in their collaborative journey to expand and enhance the retail experience for customers across India. This renewed partnership, initially formed in 2008, has evolved with Metro Brands Limited now securing exclusive rights to operate and own Crocs “full price” stores in the western and southern states of India, reflecting both companies’ commitment to further growth and presence in the Indian market.

The latest agreement between Crocs India Limited and Metro Brands Limited not only renews their commitment but also expands MBL’s operational territory, allowing it to continue, renew, and operate all existing stores across the northern and eastern states of India. This strategic move is aimed at leveraging MBL’s vast retail network to increase Crocs’ footprint across the country, capitalizing on the growing demand for innovative casual footwear among Indian consumers.

Since the initiation of their partnership, MBL has integrated Crocs products within its multi-brand outlets, transitioning to a more significant collaboration in 2015 with a non-exclusive retail license agreement. This agreement enabled MBL to distribute Crocs products across India, aligning with its mission to bring global brands to the Indian market and offering customers a dynamic and diverse retail experience. Presently, MBL operates over 200 exclusive Crocs stores across India, a testament to the partnership’s success and MBL’s expertise in retail operations.

Sumit Dhingra, VP & General Manager, India, Middle East & Africa at Crocs, lauded Metro Brands’ efforts in elevating Crocs’ brand presence in India. He emphasized the partnership’s role in translating Crocs’ unique value propositions—self-expression, personalization, and iconic comfort—into a retail experience that resonates with Indian consumers. Dhingra expressed enthusiasm about continuing the journey with MBL, aiming to broaden Crocs’ reach and unlock new possibilities for customers in India.

Echoing this sentiment, Nissan Joseph, CEO of Metro Brands Limited, reflected on the extraordinary journey with Crocs, emphasizing the partnership’s role in advancing Crocs’ presence in India. He highlighted Metro Brands’ commitment to delivering a world-class retail experience and its vision for a future filled with limitless possibilities and milestones alongside Crocs.

Metro Brands Limited’s diverse brand portfolio, including iconic Indian labels like Metro Shoes, Mochi, Walkway, and international brands like Crocs, FitFlop, and recent partnerships with Foot Locker and Fila, illustrates its strategic approach to elevating sportswear culture in India. The extended partnership between Crocs India Limited and Metro Brands Limited signifies a robust foundation for future growth, setting the stage for both companies to explore new avenues and achieve remarkable milestones in the Indian retail landscape.

The extended partnership between Crocs India Limited and Metro Brands Limited is a strategic move that exemplifies how collaborations in the retail sector can drive growth and innovation. By leveraging each other’s strengths, Crocs and Metro Brands are set to further penetrate the Indian market, offering consumers access to a broader range of footwear options that embody comfort, style, and innovation. This partnership not only signifies a promising future for both entities in the Indian retail market but also serves as a model for successful collaborations in the industry.