Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd (KICL), a prominent player in the D.C. Kothari Group conglomerate, has announced a landmark 30-year licensing and distribution agreement with the Royer Group of France. This strategic partnership will focus on the sales and marketing of the renowned footwear brand Kickers across multiple regions, including India, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Nepal, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

This agreement aligns with the Centre's ambitious 'Make In India' initiative, aiming to boost local manufacturing and technological advancements in the apparel and footwear sectors. Under this partnership, KICL and the Royer Group will collaborate on technology exchange and production processes, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing the quality and innovation of footwear products.

J. Rafiq Ahmed, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of KICL, emphasized the potential impact of the Kickers brand's entry into the Indian market. "The introduction of Kickers could be a transformative move not just for KICL but for the entire retail fashion industry," he stated. "The new range of products will blend high fashion content with superior quality and advanced comfort technologies."

The agreement also includes provisions for design and technology transfer, ensuring that all Kickers products will be manufactured domestically. Jacques Royer, Chairman of the Royer Group, highlighted the brand's unique appeal, saying, "Our concept is to reconnect every individual with material through our products, which are distinguished by their shapes and evocative colors."

India's growing prominence as a stable manufacturing hub and its significant footwear consumption make it an ideal market for the Kickers brand. The partnership reflects a strategic move to capitalize on India's potential while contributing to the nation's economic development through enhanced local production capabilities.