Bata India has strengthened its commitment to domestic manufacturing with the commissioning of a high-capacity DESMA-PUDIP (Polyurethane Direct Injection Process) machine at its flagship production facility in Bata Nagar, Kolkata. The installation represents a significant enhancement in the company’s production infrastructure and aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The DESMA-PUDIP system, developed by global footwear machinery specialist DESMA, introduces advanced automation and process precision to the facility. Key features of the system include robotic spray and roughening arms, automated mold handling, and direct soling capabilities. These upgrades are designed to improve manufacturing efficiency, ensure product consistency, and support elevated quality standards.
The inauguration event was attended by senior government officials, including Maloy Ghatak, Minister of Labour & Law, Government of West Bengal, and Avanindra Singh (IAS), Labour Secretary. Senior leadership from Bata India also participated, with Gunjan Shah, Managing Director and CEO of Bata India Ltd., and David Lynch, Chief Supply Chain Officer of Bata Global, joining remotely. Anjan Kundu, Head of Supply Chain for Bata India, was present on site.
Mr Shah stated, “The deployment of the DESMA-PUDIP machine is a strategic step toward enhancing our production capabilities and operational excellence. It reinforces our long-term commitment to innovation, domestic manufacturing, and our partnership with the state of West Bengal. This development is expected to contribute significantly to the sustainability, competitiveness, and growth of our operations.”
This investment emphasizes Bata India’s focus on scaling its industrial and safety footwear segment, aligning with national manufacturing priorities, and building a resilient, localized supply chain. The enhancement further solidifies Bata Nagar’s position as the principal manufacturing hub for the company within India.
For over 85 years, Bata has maintained a prominent and enduring presence in the Indian footwear industry. As one of the few brands catering to every member of the family, Bata has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern footwear landscape in India. With an annual sale exceeding 47 million pairs and a daily customer base of over 120,000, the brand has firmly established itself as the most trusted name in branded footwear in the country.
Bata India holds the distinction of being the nation’s largest footwear retailer. Its product portfolio spans footwear, accessories, and bags, offered through a diverse range of brands including Bata, Hush Puppies, Naturalizer, Power, Marie Claire, Weinbrenner, North Star, Scholl, Bata Comfit, and Bubblegummers. This extensive portfolio allows the company to serve a wide range of customer preferences and needs.
The brand operates through a robust retail network comprising over 1,600 company-owned and franchise stores across India. Additionally, Bata products are available on the official e-commerce platform bata.in and through a vast distribution network of multi-brand retail outlets throughout the country.
To improve accessibility and respond to evolving consumer needs, Bata has expanded its distribution model by introducing innovative service channels. These include Bata Chat Shop, Bata Home Delivery, and the Bata Store-on-Wheels initiative—each designed to provide convenient shopping experiences for local and neighbourhood communities. This strategic evolution reflects Bata’s ongoing commitment to enhancing reach, customer convenience, and service standards, while reinforcing its leadership position in the Indian footwear market.
