Bata's production capacity surges

Footwear manufacturer Bata Shoe Company has increased production capacity utilisation from 27 percent to 42 percent and is targeting 65 percent as improved currency stability and growing demand for locally manufactured products boost operations.

The company said the improvement had been driven by a more stable business environment, stronger support for Zimbabwean-made goods and an increase in orders from both government institutions and the private sector.

According to Bata, the relative stability of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency has created a more predictable operating environment, allowing businesses to plan more effectively, invest in production and expand operations.

"The stability of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency has provided a more predictable operating environment, allowing businesses to plan, invest and expand production," the company said.

It added that increasing demand for locally manufactured products had also contributed significantly to the recovery of its operations.

"The increase in demand for locally produced goods has played a significant role in improving operations, with institutions and consumers increasingly supporting Zimbabwean-made products," the company said.

Bata, one of Zimbabwe's oldest manufacturing companies, currently employs more than 1,000 people directly while supporting more than 400 additional jobs through its supply chain and distribution network.

The company said it has also strengthened partnerships with small and medium enterprises operating within the leather value chain, creating opportunities for entrepreneurship, skills development and broader economic empowerment.

The increase in production represents a significant recovery for the footwear manufacturer, which, like many local industries, has faced years of subdued output due to economic challenges.

With production now at 42 percent of installed capacity and a target of reaching 65 percent, Bata is positioning itself to capitalise on growing demand for locally produced footwear while contributing to employment creation and the revival of Zimbabwe's manufacturing sector.