Decathlon Boosts India’s Sporting Goods Sourcing

French sports goods company Decathlon, has unveiled plans to scale its sourcing from India to $3 billion by 2030, a jump from its current $480 million. This expansion is designed to serve both domestic and international markets, reflecting India’s growing importance in Decathlon’s global supply chain. At present, India contributes 8% of Decathlon’s global sourcing volume, with the company aiming to nearly double that share to 15% within the next decade. Alongside sourcing, Decathlon also intends to double its Indian business underscoring the country’s role as one of its top-four manufacturing hubs.

India’s contribution to Decathlon’s global operations is already substantial. The country produces 35% of all umbrellas sold worldwide by Decathlon and accounts for more than 20% of its textile sourcing. It has also become the leading supplier of rugby balls, manufacturing 60% of the global supply. Frederic Merlevede, head of Decathlon production, emphasized that the company’s long-term investment in India stems from strong partnerships and confidence in categories such as footwear and fitness equipment. This trust has positioned India as a cornerstone of Decathlon’s manufacturing strategy.

Currently, Decathlon produces 100 million units of sports goods in India, and the company has laid out a roadmap to diversify further. Over the next five to ten years, it plans to expand production into footwear, cricket gear, technical sports balls, textiles, kids’ accessories, metal and fitness equipment, electronics, alloy-carbon bicycle frames, and swimming inflatables. Importantly, Decathlon will continue to rely on third-party manufacturers rather than building its own factories, reinforcing its collaborative approach to growth.

From cricket bats and backpacks to bicycles, gloves, and socks, Decathlon has already scaled across diverse categories in India. With a strong supplier base and confidence in the country’s manufacturing ecosystem, Decathlon sees a robust future ahead, one that aligns with its vision of making India a global hub for sports goods production.