How to Start a Shoe Business in India (Complete Guide)

Learn how to start a shoe business in India in 2025. Step-by-step process, costs, legal requirements, suppliers, and profit margins explained. India is one of the largest footwear producers in the world, with millions of pairs manufactured every year. From leather hubs in Agra and Kanpur to ethnic footwear in Rajasthan, the country offers endless opportunities for entrepreneurs.

If you’ve been wondering how to start a shoe business in India, this guide will help. It covers legal requirements, step-by-step setup, costs, suppliers, and common mistakes. In addition, you’ll find answers to FAQs and a free checklist to get started.

Why Start a Shoe Business in India?

India’s footwear industry is full of potential.

• High domestic demand: Millions of Indians buy new shoes every year, from budget options to luxury brands.

• Second-largest producer: After China, India is the second-largest footwear manufacturer in the world.

• Export opportunities: Indian-made shoes are in demand across the USA, Europe, and the Middle East.

• Diverse categories: From school shoes to sneakers, formal wear, and ethnic footwear, the market serves every age group.

Clearly, this is an excellent time to enter the industry.

Step-by-Step Process to Start a Shoe Business in India

Step 1 – Decide Your Business Model

There are several ways to enter the shoe business in India. You can:

• Open a retail shop or boutique in your city.

• Launch an online store on Amazon, Flipkart, or Shopify.

• Start as a wholesaler, supplying retailers in bulk.

• Begin your own manufacturing unit and create a private label.

Each model has different costs and profit margins, so choose one that fits your budget.

Step 2 – Register Your Business in India

Legal registration is essential for long-term growth.

• Business registration: Choose Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Private Limited.

• GST registration: Required for selling on e-commerce sites like Amazon.

• Trade license: Obtain from your local municipal authority.

• Trademark: Protects your brand name and logo.

Without proper registration, scaling your business can be difficult.

Step 3 – Find Shoe Manufacturers & Suppliers

India has many well-known footwear hubs:

• Agra & Kanpur (U.P.) → Famous for leather and formal shoes.

• Chennai & Ranipet (Tamil Nadu) → Major leather export hubs.

• Delhi & Mumbai → Wholesale markets for casual and sports shoes.

• Rajasthan → Known for ethnic and handcrafted footwear.

Alternatively, you can connect with suppliers through IndiaMART, TradeIndia, or Justdial.

Step 4 – Set Up Sales Channels

Your sales channel determines how you reach customers.

• Offline retail shop: Ideal for local buyers in high-footfall areas.

• Online sales: Sell on marketplaces like Amazon or build your own Shopify store.

• Hybrid approach: Combine online and offline for maximum reach.

Step 5 – Branding & Marketing

In India’s competitive footwear market, branding is critical.

• Develop a strong brand name and logo.

• Market on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube with product videos.

• Collaborate with fashion influencers for affordable promotions.

• Offer Cash on Delivery (COD) to build trust with Indian customers.

Step 6 – Logistics & Delivery

A strong delivery network is crucial to keep buyers satisfied.

• Use reliable courier services like Shiprocket, Delhivery, or BlueDart.

• Provide COD and easy returns.

• Invest in quality packaging to avoid damage during transit.

Step 7 – Scaling Your Business

Once your business is running smoothly, it’s time to expand.

• Add more designs and product categories.

• Enter Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where demand is increasing.

• Consider exports through government schemes.

• Franchise your brand or open additional outlets.

Costs of Starting a Shoe Business in India

Pro Tip: Start with a small investment, test the market, and then reinvest profits.

Is Shoe Business Profitable in India?

Yes, footwear is highly profitable in India.

• Reselling can earn ₹20,000–₹40,000 per month with a small stock.

• A boutique may generate ₹50,000–₹2,00,000 per month, depending on location.

• Manufacturing offers the highest margins and export potential.

Therefore, with the right model, the shoe business can provide long-term financial stability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping registration, which may cause compliance problems later.

• Relying only on offline sales instead of building an online presence.

• Choosing poor-quality suppliers, which damages customer trust.

• Ignoring digital marketing, even though it’s vital in India’s competitive market.

FAQs About Starting a Shoe Business in India

1. How much investment is needed to start a shoe business in India?
You can begin with ₹7,000 (reselling) or go up to ₹20,00,000+ for manufacturing.

2. Do I need GST to sell shoes in India?
Yes, GST is mandatory for selling on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, or Myntra. For small home-based sales, it is optional.

3. Where can I find shoe manufacturers in India?
Agra, Kanpur, Chennai, and Delhi NCR are top hubs. You can also search on IndiaMART or TradeIndia.

4. Is shoe business profitable in India?
Yes. Depending on the business model, margins range from 20% to 70%.

5. Can I sell shoes online in India without a shop?
Yes, you can sell shoes directly through Instagram, Facebook, or a Shopify store without owning a physical shop.

Conclusion

India provides one of the best environments for starting a shoe business in 2025. With strong domestic demand, global export opportunities, and access to skilled suppliers, entrepreneurs have plenty of room to grow.

To recap:

• Register your business and secure GST.

• Decide on your model — reselling, boutique, wholesale, or manufacturing.

• Find reliable suppliers from India’s leading hubs.

• Build a strong brand, invest in marketing, and offer COD to attract customers.

Take the first step today. Download the free Shoe Business Checklist, explore our guide to Shoe Manufacturers in India, and read the Pillar Article on How to Start a Shoe Business in 2025 for more strategies.

Your small start could become India’s next big footwear brand!