New Delhi: Danish premium footwear brand Ecco is strengthening its presence in India with an ambitious retail expansion strategy. The brand which entered the India market in 2019, has launched its first signature store in Mumbai’s Phoenix Palladium.
Sumeet Lohia, country manager of Ecco India, highlighted the brand’s performance in the country, attributing growth to the rising demand for premium footwear in the Rs 15,000-25,000 price range. “India’s growing affluence is creating a strong demand for premium brands like ours. We are witnessing high consumer interest, with repeat customers accounting for 50% of our sales,” he stated. Despite a broader slowdown in the lifestyle segment, Ecco has continued to see strong traction, particularly in top-tier cities where the brand is expanding its offline presence.
Ecco is targeting top malls and high streets across India’s metro cities and aims to open 25 exclusive stores by the end of 2026. “Our expansion plan focuses on key retail hubs in India’s top six cities. By the end of 2026, we plan to have a robust presence in all key malls,” Lohia added.
Patrick Iversen, regional director for South East Asia, expressed confidence in Ecco’s long-term prospects in India. “As a family-owned company, we are committed to the Indian market for the long run. We see significant potential driven by India’s demographic push and rising disposable income,” he said. The brand envisions expanding beyond the initial 25 stores, with long-term plans extending to 2030.