August 4, 2025

Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd (KICL), a major player in the footwear industry and part of the diverse D C Kothari Group, has announced its acquisition of footwear brands Zodiz and Jeetlo, with the official transaction set to commence on August 4, 2025. This strategic move is aimed at fortifying KICL's presence in the mass-market footwear segment, allowing the company to cater effectively to underserved consumer segments. Zodiz, a brand marketed by Coimbatore-based Zaimus Trends Pvt Ltd, is well-regarded for its affordable footwear offerings. Similarly, Jeetlo, promoted by Jeetlo.Com India Pvt Ltd based in Haryana, boasts a strong presence across various e-commerce platforms, making these brands ideal additions to KICL's portfolio. The acquisition not only expands KICL’s offerings but also aligns with its goal of embracing a value-driven market, particularly focusing on products priced under Rs 1,000. KICL's move into this segment is backed by industry data indicating that footwear priced under Rs 1,000 constitutes a staggering 80 percent of total footwear consumption in India. This segment is also estimated to be valued between Rs 80,000 crore and Rs 85,000 crore annually, highlighting a significant market opportunity. In a statement regarding the acquisition, KICL executive chairman Jinnah Rafiq Ahmed emphasized the transformational potential this acquisition promises. "This is not just an acquisition; it marks the beginning of a new chapter that will unlock value for consumers, partners, and stakeholders," he asserted. His vision for KICL includes focusing marketing strategies on tier-II and tier-III cities, where there is an increasing demand for quality and affordable footwear. The company plans to innovate and evolve its product offerings to resonate with changing fashion sensibilities while also ensuring the comfort that customers seek in daily wear. Ahmed also pointed out that the Indian footwear market is undergoing a significant transformation, with per capita consumption currently standing at 1.9 pairs per annum. This figure is expected to double by the year 2030, reflecting the changing landscape of consumer behavior and preferences. Footwear is no longer perceived merely as a utility but has evolved into an important aspect of personal style and self-expression, indicating a shift in what consumers are looking for in their footwear choices. The acquisition of Zodiz and Jeetlo underscores KICL’s long-standing strategy of expanding its reach and presence in the competitive footwear market, building on its previous successes such as the acquisition of international brands like Kickers and the establishment of a non-leather footwear park in Tamil Nadu's Perambalur district. By leveraging its existing infrastructure and distribution channels, KICL is well-positioned to integrate these brands into its portfolio seamlessly. Looking forward, KICL aims to capture the growing market for affordable footwear while enhancing its brand recognition. By targeting less saturated regional markets, the company plans to utilize e-commerce to maximize reach, ensuring that consumers in tier-II and tier-III cities have access to stylish, high-quality footwear at competitive prices. In conclusion, KICL's acquisition of Zodiz and Jeetlo is a strategic expansion into the mass-market footwear segment, designed to meet the evolving needs of Indian consumers. With a focus on quality, affordability, and emerging market trends, KICL is poised to redefine the landscape of affordable footwear in India, catering to a broad demographic while fostering brand loyalty and awareness among consumers.

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Tags: Kicl, Zodiz, Jeetlo, Footwear acquisition, Mass-market segment,