Summer is here and so is the cult favourite BIRKENSTOCK! Celebrating 250 years of tradition in shoemaking in 2024, the German footwear brand unveiled its first flagship store in the bustling heart of India’s financial capital, Mumbai.
Steeped in the brand’s ethos of function, quality and tradition, the flagship store intertwines contemporary design with India’s vibrant cultural heritage. The commemoration of the exquisite store in Mumbai signifies an enduring bond between the brand and its Indian consumers.
Spanning 1,600 square meters, the store encapsulates the essence of the brand with an oversized replica of its iconic footbed, serving as the centrepiece, that is meticulously crafted by local artisans. The fusion of Brass and elements like cork, jute, and leather pays homage to the brand’s global identity and India’s rich tapestry of culture. The interior design takes further inspiration from iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and traditional structures such as Mandaps and Charpai-Jhulas.
“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our first flagship store in India, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to the Indian market,” says Jens Hattab, Regional Managing Director, Middle East Africa India at BIRKENSTOCK. “This store opening coincides with our 250th anniversary in shoemaking, a testament to our enduring heritage and constant innovation. India is a dynamic market with an ever-growing appreciation for quality and comfort, and we see immense potential for BIRKENSTOCK’s continued expansion here. This flagship store will serve as a platform to showcase our latest collections, the alluring 1774 drops and connect with our Indian customers on a deeper level.”
Beyond commerce, this flagship store aims to cultivate an immersive consumer experience by hosting events and cultivating a sense of community. The interactive displays in the store provide insights into the brand’s illustrious journey spanning two and a half centuries.
“The opening of our first BIRKENSTOCK flagship store, in India is a landmark moment for us. The love for BIRKENSTOCK in India has been truly inspiring. We’re witnessing a passionate and ever-expanding consumer base who value not only the comfort and quality of our footwear but also the brand’s commitment to heritage. This motivates us to continuously innovate and deliver exceptional experiences that resonate with our community,” added Vinay Bansal, Managing Director of BIRKENSTOCK India.