French sports retailer Decathlon is intensifying its investments to bolster production and expand its retail footprint in India, which is deemed one of its “most significant” global markets, according to its Global CEO Barbara Martin Coppola, news agency PTI reported.
Decathlon anticipates maintaining its robust growth trajectory in the Indian market, which is also emerging as a crucial manufacturing hub for the sports retailer. Coppola noted that around 65 per cent of the production in India is currently exported to global markets.
India ranks among Decathlon’s top ten global markets and is experiencing growth at twice the rate of others. Since entering the Indian market in 2009, Decathlon has established a network of 129 stores.
Coppola expressed admiration for the evolving sports culture in India, particularly among the middle class, who are increasingly participating in various sports activities as their income levels rise alongside the economy’s growth.
Decathlon plans to accelerate local production and sourcing in India while expanding its retail network. Coppola emphasized the importance of India as Decathlon’s most critical market, with expectations for continued high growth.
India holds significant importance in Decathlon’s global operations, given its digital prowess and creative production capabilities. The company aims to enhance local sourcing to 85 per cent of sports goods sold in India within the next two years, up from the current 60 per cent.
Coppola highlighted the increasing popularity of sports among Indian society, attributing it to factors such as rising incomes and increased spending on sports and leisure activities. She also mentioned the thriving opportunities in India’s sports industry.
Decathlon’s app has garnered nearly 29 million downloads in India, offering an exemplary omni-channel experience encompassing sports goods sales and sports-related activities at its stores.
As the official partner of the Paris 2024 Olympics, Decathlon expresses enthusiasm for India potentially hosting the event in 2036, as the Indian government bids for it.
Decathlon commenced operations in India in 2009 and obtained approval for single-brand retail in 2013. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2023, Decathlon India reported sales of Rs 3,995 crore, marking a 37 per cent growth.
