Reliability meets modern style

Apex Footwear Limited has spent more than three decades shaping the way Bangladesh wears its shoes. What began in 1990 as a leather export venture has since grown into a powerhouse brand, catering to international buyers while building one of the country's largest retail footprints.

The Daily Star (TDS): How would you describe the current state of the Bangladesh footwear market?

Syed Nasim Manzur(SNM):  The market is vibrant and at an inflection point: strong domestic demand driven by youth, rising incomes and fashion awareness, and a growing role as a sourcing hub for global retailers. Consumers are increasingly demanding quality, comfort, and design.

There has been a strong rise in fashion consciousness, especially among the youth. Price is no longer the only deciding factor; design and lifestyle compatibility matter greatly. Secondly, women are shaping the market more than ever before. With higher workforce participation and mobility their demand for both comfort and style has grown significantly.

Syed Nasim Manzur Managing Director Apex Footwear Limited

TDS: What major trends or consumer shifts have you noticed in the last five years?

SNM: Fashion consciousness has surged, women's demand has risen with higher workforce participation, e-commerce has become mainstream, and there are early moves toward sustainability and premiumisation.

TDS: Where does your company stand in terms of market share in the industry?

SNM: The market totals around BDT 12,000 crore (structured ≈ BDT 4,000 crore; unstructured ≈ BDT 8,000 crore). Apex reported structured sales of BDT 987 crore and unstructured sales of BDT 238 crore (total BDT 1,225 crore). This is roughly 10% of the full market and about 25% of the structured segment. Apex competes across price tiers with emphasis on reliable quality, accessible pricing, expanding product diversity and digital adoption.

TDS:What are the biggest challenges and opportunities right now?

SNM: Challenges include rising import costs for raw materials, currency volatility, inflation and the need to accelerate technology adoption. Opportunities arise from a young urban consumer base, increased regional and global buyer interest, and returns from investment in skills, design, sustainability and compliance.

TDS: After long storage, some customers report sole or glue separation of their shoes. What causes this issue?

SNM: Separation commonly stems from prolonged storage without flexing, humid conditions and heat or moisture exposure that weaken adhesives. Apex is responding with stronger adhesives, enhanced quality checks, clearer consumer storage guidance, and strengthened after-sales service and warranty policies to protect brand trust.