Alberto Torresi plans Rs 35 cr investment

Alberto Torresi, the footwear brand from Agra-based

Virola International, having significant presence in the US, Canada, Europe, South Africa, Australia, etc, plans to invest more than Rs 35 crores over the next two years to consolidate and strengthen its position in India. The fund will be utilised in technology up-gradation to boost production capacity, retail expansion — both physical and e-retail, marketing and brand building activities.

After introducing its footwear range for men in 2010, Alberto Torresi, will soon roll out its ladies range in the country. The company is bullish about the prospects Indian footwear space. According to them, the women’s segment will possibly grow faster than the men’s. The company exports its products to as many as 60 countries either under Alberto Torresi brand or to other premium brands. It gets 65 per cent of its revenue from the ladies range. It is also buoyed by the fact that the branded segment in India that was at mere 10 per cent 3-4 years back has now crossed the 30 per cent mark.

The products are designed in Italy and made across six facilities in and around Agra. The present capacity is 12,000 pairs per day. Another 2,000-3,000 pairs per day capacity will be added over the next three months and 10,000 pairs per day capacity will be added over the next one year. At present, Alberto Torresi range is sold through 100 multi-brand outlets and 14 distributors across the country.