Image used for representational purpose only. File
| Photo Credit: Reuters
After two phases of capacity expansions involving capex of ₹250 crore, India has become the largest manufacturing base of American luggage company Samsonite, out beating other locations such Hungary and Belgium.
The company has successfully tripled its factory capacity in Nashik to 7 lakh pieces per month in a span of six years. The company manufacturers luggage units under the brands Samsonite, American Tourister and Kamiliant.
The first phase began pre-Covid and was completed in 2021, doubling production from about 2.2 lakh to 4.3 lakh pieces per month by then.
Phase two was inaugurated in December 2024, officially raising capacity to 7 lakh pieces, with tested peak utilisation hitting that number once.
Current utilisation stands at around 80-85%, producing approximately 5.5 lakh pieces monthly, leaving room for growth before the next expansion which is planned in 12 to 18 months.
“The company experienced phenomenal growth post-Covid with a 70% growth compared to pre-Covid levels, outpacing industry Compound Annual Growth Rate [CAGR] substantially over the past six years,” said Jai Krishan, CEO – India, Samsonite South Asia Private Limited.
“2024 was a slow year, marking an expected market correction after unprecedented growth driven by increased travel and strong strategic decisions.
Growth resumed in 2025, and there would be steady growth due to India’s overall economic trajectory and corporate emphasis on outperforming global growth rates,” he said.
He said the company was focusing on premiumisation and quality, targeting consumers willing to pay more for durable, repairable luggage.
Currently having about 600 stores nationwide, the company plan to take the store network to 1,000 stores in the next few years, focusing on small towns and emerging cities.
“We open approximately 50 new stores annually, using franchising models to maintain brand consistency and reach viable markets, including taluka and district headquarters,” Mr Krishan said.
Online sales currently account for about 16% of total revenue, driven by marketplaces like Amazon and Flipkart, with expected growth in digital channels.
Exports represent about 10% of monthly production (5.5 lakh pieces), primarily serving internal group companies across regions including Europe, Middle East and Latin America, he added.
The factory has significantly indigenized components to reduce import dependence, enhancing supply chain resilience and manufacturing self-sufficiency.
The company plans to decide on the next expansion location within the next 12-18 months, weighing options in North, South, and East India, including pitches from Odisha.
Construction for new plants is expected to take about 9-12 months, with modern prefab options under consideration to speed up setup.
Published – December 23, 2025 10:39 pm IST
