Daybreak Bata's premium problem in a Prada-priced world
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Jun 26, 2025 The podcast explores the journey of Kolhapuri chappals from humble Indian roots to being flaunted on runways by luxury brands like Prada. It dives into Bata's struggles as it tries to shift its image from a middle-class staple to a premium offering, facing fierce competition. The discussion also highlights cultural appropriation, questioning how authentic heritage can transition into high-priced fashion. Listeners are prompted to reflect on the value of local craftsmanship versus the allure of foreign labels in today’s consumer landscape.
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Bata's Market Squeeze
- Bata struggles between being affordable for budget shoppers and aspirational for premium buyers.
- The brand finds itself squeezed and unable to firmly position in either segment.
CEO Success Then Decline
- Bata thrived under CEO Sandeep Kataria, doubling its stock price despite the pandemic.
- However, after initial success, its market performance declined, lagging behind the broader stock market gains.
Bata's Cultural Identity
- Bata is not originally an Indian brand but from Czechoslovakia, now Switzerland-based.
- Despite this, it became a default middle-class Indian brand known for affordable, reliable shoes.