With the advent of industrialization, humanity has witnessed significant advancements in production, job opportunities, and urbanization. However, this progress has come at a cost. Industrialization has led to the contamination of our air, water, and soil through the release of dust, smoke, fumes, and toxic gases. The use of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials has further contributed to irreversible environmental degradation. Fortunately, people are now recognizing the importance of conserving the environment, leading to the emergence of innovative eco-friendly startups in India.
Neeman’s: Leading the Way in Sustainable Footwear
Neeman’s, a Hyderabad-based startup founded in 2017, is transforming the footwear industry with its commitment to sustainability. As India’s first shoe brand to utilize natural, renewable, and sustainable fibers, including merino wool, Neeman’s envisions manufacturing shoes that are not only stylish and comfortable but also environmentally friendly.
Inspired by the renowned American brand Allbirds, which is known for its sustainable shoes and clothing, Neeman’s collaborates with leading manufacturing units and suppliers worldwide to bring perfectly-crafted, natural fiber shoes to the Indian market. Their shoes are crafted using materials such as merino wool, organic cotton, recycled PET bottles, wood, fruit pulp, bamboo, and even tires, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint.
Neeman’s Product Range
Neeman’s offers three main types of shoes: Wool Classic Sneakers, Wool Joggers, and Wool Loafers. Each pair is thoughtfully designed to provide both style and comfort, while also adhering to the brand’s sustainable ethos.
Unique Selling Points of Neeman’s
Neeman’s stands out in the footwear industry due to its numerous unique selling points:
Stylish and Comfortable: Neeman’s shoes are designed to offer both style and comfort, making them suitable for various occasions.
Use of Natural and Renewable Materials: The brand utilizes natural and renewable fibers, such as merino wool and organic cotton, along with castor bean oil and recycled rubber, to manufacture its shoes.
Versatile for All Seasons: Neeman’s merino wool shoes can be worn throughout the year, providing comfort in both extreme summers and winters.
Flexibility and Lightweight: Neeman’s shoes are flexible and lightweight, conforming to the foot and ensuring lasting comfort throughout the day.
Timeless Designs: The brand’s timeless designs seamlessly transition from work to play, allowing customers to wear them for any occasion, whether casual or dressy.
Odor-Resistant and Machine-Washable: Neeman’s shoes are odor-resistant and can be worn without socks. They are also machine-washable, making them convenient to clean if necessary.
Collaboration with Expert Manufacturers: Neeman’s works with top design companies, manufacturing units, and spinning mills to create their ultra-soft merino wool fabric, ensuring the highest quality for their exclusive shoes.
The Indian Footwear Industry and Neeman’s Impact
India holds the distinction of being the second-largest footwear producer globally, with approximately 9% of the total annual production. In terms of consumption, India ranks third, with a consumption rate of around 2.1 billion pairs per year. The premium footwear market in India represents 8 to 10% of the overall footwear market, amounting to $7-8 billion.
Neeman’s Founders and Their Journey
Neeman’s was founded by Taranjeet Singh Chhabra and Amar Preet Singh in 2017. The idea for the company arose from Taranjeet’s personal experience and frustration while traveling with multiple pairs of shoes. This inconvenience inspired him to create a versatile shoe that could be used for various purposes throughout the day. With little background knowledge in footwear and design, Taranjeet embarked on a journey, visiting shoe manufacturing hubs worldwide to learn about the industry.
During his exploration, Taranjeet observed that most shoes were made using synthetic and chemical-heavy fibers that had detrimental effects on the environment. This realization led him to explore natural sources, and merino wool from Australia emerged as the top choice due to its exceptional qualities. Merino wool is softer compared to traditional wool and can be comfortably worn year-round. Additionally, this fiber is natural and renewable, as sheep produce a new fleece each year.
After two years of dedicated work, Neeman’s was officially launched in October 2016. The brand’s mission is to create classic, stylish shoes made from natural merino wool and other eco-friendly materials.
Neeman’s Business Model and Expansion
Neeman’s initially launched its products directly to consumers through its website, simplifying the buying process and making it accessible to customers across India. To enhance discoverability, the brand expanded its distribution channels and made its shoes available on popular e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. Furthermore, Neeman’s has begun exploring offline markets, introducing its products in retail chains like Shoppers Stop and Lifestyle.
The pricing for Neeman’s shoes ranges between INR 5,500 and INR 5,850. To ensure customer satisfaction, the brand offers a 7-day risk-free trial, allowing customers to experience the comfort of their shoes at their doorstep. If any issues arise, Neeman’s promptly delivers a new pair within a few days.
Neeman’s: Paving the Way for Sustainable Footwear Choices
Neeman’s remarkable journey exemplifies the potential for startups to drive positive change in the footwear industry. By prioritizing sustainability and incorporating eco-friendly materials into their designs, Neeman’s is reshaping the way people perceive and choose footwear. With their commitment to style, comfort, and environmental consciousness, Neeman’s is inspiring a new generation of conscious consumers and contributing to the collective effort of conserving our planet for future generations.
Neeman’s Funding & Investors
Other significant shareholders include Stride Ventures with a 14.29% stake and other angel investors who collectively hold the remaining shares. The funding received by Neeman’s has allowed the company to fuel its growth, expand its product offerings, and further establish its position in the sustainable footwear market.
The financial support from these investors demonstrates their confidence in Neeman’s vision and the potential for sustainable fashion in India. With their expertise and resources, the investors contribute not only capital but also strategic guidance to help Neeman’s scale its operations and reach a wider audience.
Neeman’s ongoing funding efforts highlight the continued interest and support from investors who recognize the value of eco-friendly and socially responsible businesses. The funds raised enable Neeman’s to continue innovating and leading the way in sustainable footwear, making a positive impact on both the industry and the environment.
