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Project Report
On

“Potential of Safety Shoes in North India”

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

Master of Business Administration

2009-2011

Submitted by

Ritika Wadhwa
Roll No. - 94972238222

Punjab College of Technical Education, Baddowal,

Ludhiana

Affiliated to

Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar

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Acknowledgement

An individual cannot do project of this scale. I take this opportunity to express my acknowledgement and
deep sense of gratitude to the individuals for rendering valuable assistance and gratitude to me. Their
input have played a vital role in success of this project & formal piece of acknowledgement may not be
sufficient to express the feeling of gratitude towards people who have helped me in successfully
completion of my training.

I would like to wish my sincere thanks to my project guide Ms. Sukhjinder Kaur Baring Department
of management studies for her keen interest and giving valuable guidance at every stage of this project.
Later on I would like to confer the flower of acknowledgement to the company guide Mr. Haemant
Mohan (Head of Institutional Sales Department), who is my external guide.

I take this opportunity to thank all respondents who spared their precious time to provide me with
valuable input for project without which it would have not been possible.

I firmly believe that there is always a scope of improvement. I welcome any suggestions for further
enriching the quality of this report.
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Abstract

The Shoe industry is highly competitive. Products and services that are easily replicated, together with
informed and demanding consumer markets, add to the complexity of the dynamic and fast changing shoe
industry. The Companies try to differentiate themselves on the basis of corporate identity. The purpose of
the current study was to understand the customer needs and wants and what a customer expects from the
company. And how do and on what attributes customer choose a particular brand. And what is their
frequency of their purchase.

The review of literature focuses on the importance of safety products and customer preferences. The
questionnaire was made to fulfill all the set empirical objectives. The schedule had the questions on
different attributes to understand the complete perception of the customer.

The statistical analysis was done. This study and analysis can help the various companies to understand
that how much potential of safety shoes is there in the market and what are those factors on the bases of
which customers select those shoes.

Signature of Major Advisor Signature of Student

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CERTIFICATE-1

This is to certify that report entitled, " Potential of Safety Shoes in North India." submitted for the degree
of MBA in subject of summer training report, is a bonafide research project earned out by Ritika
Wadhwa, PCTE student under my supervision and no part of this report has been submitted for any other
degree.

The assistance and help received during the course of investigation have been fully
acknowledged.

Ms. Sukhjinder Baring

(Major Faculty Advisor)
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Contents

Part A

Serial No. Title Page no.

A.1 Introduction to the Footwear Industry 1-2

A.2 Introduction to Group of Companies 4-

A.2.1 Liberty Group 4

A.2.2 Mission & Vision 5

A.2.3 Liberty Group of Companies 5-6

A.2.4 Board of Directors 7-8

A.3 Introduction to the particular Firm 9-

A.3.1 Liberty shoes Ltd. 10

A.3.2 History 10

A.3.3 Corporate Philosophy 11

A.3.4 Social Responsibility 11

A.3.5 Corporate Goals 12

A.3.6 market 12-13

A.3.7 Awards 14

A.3.8 Products 15-16

A.4 Organizational Structure 18-19

A.5 SWOT Analysis 21

A.6 Financial Statement Analysis 23-35

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Part B

Chapter No. Title Page no.

1. Introduction to the Project 36-39

2. Review of Literature 40-42
3. Research Methodology 43-48
4. Data Analysis & Interpretation 49-58
5. Results, Findings and Conclusion 59-60
6. Suggestions 61-62
Bibliography
Appendix
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1. Introduction to the Footwear Industry

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Indian Scenario of footwear industry

The Footwear Industry is a significant chunk of the Leather industry in India. India ranks second
among the footwear producing countries next to China. The industry is labor intensive and is
concentrated in the small and cottage industry sectors. While leather shoes and uppers are
concentrated in large-scale units, the sandals and chappals are produced in the household and
cottage sector. India produces more of gents' footwear while the world's major production is in
ladies footwear..

The industry is on the edge of adopting the modern and state-of-the-art technology to suit the
international requirements and standards. The Indian Footwear Industry is all set for leveraging
its strengths towards maximizing benefits.

Strength of India in the footwear sector originates from its command on reliable supply of
resources in the form of raw hides and skins, quality finished leather, large installed capacities
for production of finished leather & footwear, large human capital with expertise and technology
base, skilled manpower and relatively low cost labor, proven strength to produce footwear for
global brand leaders and acquired technology competence, particularly for mid and high priced
footwear segments. India has the competitive advantage over other countries in the form of
materials and skilled manpower.

The footwear industry exists both in the traditional as well as modern sector. While the
traditional sector is spread throughout the country with clusters of concentration catering largely
to the domestic market, the modern sector is largely confined to selected centers like Chennai,
Ambur, Ranipat, Agra, Kanpur and Delhi with most of their production for export.

Assembly line production is organized, and about 90% of the workforces in the mechanized
sector in South India consist of women. In fact, this sector has opened up plenty of employment
opportunities for women who have no previous experience.

Presently the key players in Indian market are Bata, Adidas, Liberty, Action, Relexo, Reebok
and NIKE.
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2. Introduction to Corporate and briefing

about Group Companies
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2.1 Liberty Group

Liberty Group was the vision of three dreamers who thought of producing an Indian brand of
footwear to make a basic necessity available to their countrymen.

Mr. D P Gupta, Mr. P D Gupta and Mr. R K Bansal looked beyond the geographical
boundaries and brought cutting-edge technologies to their own country. Soon the name,
“Liberty” became synonym to quality in the domestic market and this encouraged the company
to invest further for enhancing production capacities and to cater to the demand of international
markets.

Today, Liberty is not only about footwear. It has diversified into various sectors establishing an
invincible business empire of prosperity. In the domestic market it is one of the most admired
names that ensure quality. Liberty Group expanded and diversified into manufacturing of
ceramic sanitary ware under the brand name “Liberty White ware” With innovations in bathroom
products and accessories that go beyond graceful lines, the company is setting new trends in
Indian ceramic sanitary ware Industry.

In order to offer unusual shopping experience to the customers, the group also entered into
retailing and set up stores in the major cities under the brand name, “Liberty Revolution”

The Liberty Group is expanding with the passage of time and it is committed to venture into
more business areas keeping abreast with the demands and needs.
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2.2 Mission & Vision

Mission

It’s the mission of the Liberty Group to continuously improve the quality of its products using
cutting-edge technologies and following the latest trends. The group emerged with an enthusiasm
to offer world-class products to its countrymen and it will carry forward the same attitude along
with the determination to be the global leader.

Vision

The Group is committed to achieve the highest performance standards in each area of its
business. It envisages itself as the most trusted name all over the world.

2.3 Liberty Group of Companies

Liberty Shoes Ltd.

Liberty Whitewares Ltd.

Liberty Retail Revolutions Ltd.

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2.3.1 Liberty Shoes Limited

The company has a turnover exceeding U.S. $100 million and produces more than 50,000 pairs
of footwear a day. The company produces varieties of ranges covering virtually every age group
and income category. The products are marketed across the globe through 150 distributors, 350
exclusive showrooms and over 6000 multi-brand outlets, and sold in thousands every day in
more than 25 countries including fashion-driven, quality-obsessed nations like France, Italy, and
Germany.

2.3.2 Liberty Whitewares limited

With innovations in bathroom products and accessories that go

beyond graceful lines, the company is setting new standards in the
Indian ceramic sanitary ware industry. The products break the
mould to achieve balanced and coherent integration of space, form,
design and comfort. It is redefining the bathroom as a treasured
sanctuary to luxuriate in. Liberty Whiteware is a part of the Rs.
350 crore Liberty Group, and it is taking the concept of luxury to a
new level of excellence.

2.3.3 Liberty Retail Revolutions Ltd.

In the elite shopping avenues of fashion capitals "Revolutions" has

begun its walk. The fashion accessory and footwear stores have begun
operations in Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkatta, Hyderabad, Pune,
Indore and Lucknow. These are company managed and owned outlets
where the emphasis is to deliver high fashion to the customers backed
by quality service making it a delightful shopping experience. Liberty
showrooms enter the international market as the company has plans of
opening more revolution showrooms nationally & internationally.
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2.4 Board of Directors

 Mr. Adesh Gupta, Executive Director / CEO

 Mr. Shammi Bansal, Executive Director
 Mr. Adarsh Gupta, Executive Director
 Mr. Sunil Bansal, Non Executive Director
 Mr. S.K. Goel, Independent Non Executive Director
 Mr Amitabh Taneja, Independent Non Executive Director
 Mr. Prem Garg, Independent Non Executive Director
 Mr. S.K.Arya, Independent Non Executive Director
 Mr. Siddharth Sanghi, Independent Non Executive Director
 Mr. Vivek Bansal, Independent Non Executive Director
 Mr. Raghu Dayal, Independent Non Executive Director

Audit Committee

 Mr. Sunil Bansal

 Mr. Prem Garg
 Mr. Raghu Dayal
 Mr. Vivek Bansal

Remuneration Committee

 Mr. Raghu Dayal

 Mr. Prem Garg
 Representative of outside consultants

Share Transfer & Share Holders/Investors Grievance Committee Meeting

 Mr. Adarsh Gupta

 Mr. Prem Garg
 Mr. Sunil Bansal
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3. Introduction to particular Firm/Division

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3.1 Liberty Shoes Ltd.

Liberty Shoes Ltd. is the only Indian company that is among the top 5 manufacturers of leather
footwear in the world with a turnover exceeding U.S. $100 million.

It produces more than 50,000 pairs of footwear a day covering virtually every age group and
income category. Products are marketed across the globe through 150 distributors, 350 exclusive
showrooms and over 6000 multi-brand outlets, and sold in thousands every day in more than 25
countries including fashion-driven, quality-obsessed nations like France, Italy, and Germany

With 50 years of excellence, today Liberty produces footwear for the entire family and is a
trusted name across the world. In the domestic market it is one of the most admired footwear
brands and holds the largest market share for leather footwear.

3.2 History

It was the 25th December of 1954 when India was nurturing its growth as a free country, three
dreamers in a small town in erstwhile Punjab thought of producing an Indian brand of footwear
to make a basic necessity available to their countrymen.

Mr. D P Gupta, Mr. P D Gupta and Mr. R K Bansal allowed their vision to cross every barrier
and brought cutting-edge technologies to their own country. Within a short span of time, the
name, Liberty became a synonym to quality footwear in the domestic market and this
encouraged the company to invest further for enhancing production capacities and to cater to the
demands of international markets.

With 50 years of excellence, today Liberty produces footwear for the entire family and is a
trusted name across the world. In the domestic market it is one of the most admired footwear
brands and holds the largest market share for leather footwear
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3.3 Corporate Philosophy

Steeped in a philosophy that has at its core innovation, technology and advancement, Liberty,
pride itself over and above everything else on its healthy and heart-felt respect for the human
ethos, which projects itself in the expectancy and excitement with which one greets the arrival of
the new combined with a sincere and deep regard for the old, which is appreciative of and adopts
at every stage the unique balance between modernization and tradition.

Liberty as a brand is constantly evolving to keep pace with the changing trends, styles, beliefs,
and aspirations of people while maintaining the sanctity of certain traditions like workmanship
and good value.

3.4 Social Responsibility

People at Liberty, are ever conscious of the fact that their reputation stems not just from quality
products and technological innovations but also from the manner in which they discharge their
responsibilities towards its employees, its customers, the society and the environment. Utmost
importance is given to ensuring safe, healthy and non-discriminatory working conditions for all
Liberty employees and ethical standards and practices are rigorously adhered to. That's why
Liberty finds place in the most favored list of respectable brands like Wal-Mart, Reebok, Nike,
etc as an Equal Opportunity Employer.

In fact for Liberty, 3000 employees are all members of the extended Liberty family. So it's no
surprise that its Humantech Centers have crèches which give working mothers the freedom and
peace of mind to pursue their careers.

Liberty also have a special charity fund for providing financial assistance to families who suffer
the tragedy of losing their sole earning member. It's this sense of social commitment that inspired
it to set up the Sanjay Charitable Hospital at Karnal and join the Nation in felicitating the
winners of the Republic Day Bravery Awards with a special gift of free footwear. Ecological
awareness also happens to be uppermost on our minds.
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3.5 Corporate Goals

Any company if it grows which is the key to survival in the long run should clear and well
defined goals. The goals of liberty shoes limited are given below:

 Liberty wants to develop a spirit of cooperation between individuals and group within the
company

 Liberty wants to attain and maintain good relations between its union and management

 Liberty will endeavor to keep highly qualified employees by appropriate training and thus
raise their morale and competence.

 Liberty will try to practice management of highest standard of competence and

professionalism.

 Liberty will strive to remain or become the technological as well as market leaders in
footwear industry and leather product industry.

 Liberty wants to be known for the quality of its products and services.

3.6 Markets

3.6.1 Domestic Market

Liberty has a big and burgeoning market that spans a vast and varied spectrum. It includes the
fashion-driven, always in with the latest style, elite at one end and the budget conscious, always
seeking the best value for money, middle class at the other end. The third nodal point in this
market is the institutional buyer from a wide range of industries looking for safety shoes.
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 Retail-part of domestic market

Liberty Shoes has over the years emerged as the driving force of the retail market in India.
Covering virtually every strata.

There are the neighborhood family footwear stores catering largely to the middle class to be
found in large, medium and small cities across the country.

And rounding it of in style is a high fashion chain in metros across the country that caters to
individual styles and looks, in an ambience that is as magical and exciting as the products lined
up.

 Distribution part

Lending muscle to the marketing arm of Liberty Shoes is a distributor network that is
continuously growing. And it gives us a reach as well as a highly visible presence in the far-flung
areas of our vast nation. Contributing greatly to its identity as a household name in footwear in
India.

 Institutional sales-part

The changing economic scenario, the upsurge in industrial development and the rise in
construction activities opened up immense possibilities which inspired Liberty to came up with a
world class range of safety shoes.

 Conforming the euro safety norms (EN-345). These safety shoes have emerged as
standard professional gear for the workers in light and heavy engineering units as well as
for the defense forces.
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3.6.2 International Market

Liberty makes footwear that meet demanding standards and requirement across the globe. Names
like ROMIKA, JOSEF SIEBEL, DEICHMANN, RICHTER, JELA, SALAMANDER,
VANLTEN source their high quality footwear from Liberty. And a dedicated team of people
monitors their requirements to ensure the satisfaction levels are kept high.

3.7 Awards

3.7.1 Amity Corporate Excellence Award

Amity International Business School has accorded a special honor to Liberty Shoes Ltd. for
outshining the competition with their distinct vision, innovation, competitiveness and sustenance.
A two phase selection process was followed to identify the deserving corporate. In the first phase
a study was conducted of various Indian companies across 20 different sectors. The study was
backed by information obtained from secondary sources including Economic Times and Dun &
Bradstreet. Then a panel comprising noted academicians and management students short-listed
200 companies on the basis of key parameters including Existence in India (years), Employee
Strength, Current Gross Revenue (Rs. in crores), Market Capitalization, Net Fixed Assets, Key
Initiatives taken and Discharge of Social Responsibilities among other things. In the final phase a
student poll involving management graduates from various institutions across the country was
conducted where they were asked to vote for the company they admired most on the basis of a
pre-set questionnaire. On the basis of the response received the final nomination list of
companies was prepared. And from among the final nominees Liberty Shoes Ltd. was chosen for
the Amity Corporate Excellence Award. The award was given to the Company at the School’s
Valedictory Function on February 23, 2007.

3.7.2 Liberty shoes won the 2005-2006 Export Awards

The council for leather exports has presented the plaque for non leather footwear exports as well
as the brand promotion award for non leather footwear to Liberty Shoes Ltd.
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3.8 Products

For men:

Cooler Fortune1 Gliders000

Windsor Force10 Gliders11

For women:

Force 10 Gliders1000 Senorita Tiptop Tiptopp

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For kids:

Footfun Force102 Gliders Perfect33

Safety shoes:

Pro_fd1 proo_fd3 warrior warrior.33

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4. Organizational Chart of Liberty

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C.E.O

C.G.M

Liberty Liberty Shoes Liberty White

Revolutions Ltd. Ltd. Ware Ltd.

Departments

H.R Finance Production Purchase Marketing R&D IT Excise

Institutional
Domestic Export
Sales

Department Heads

C.E.O: Mr. Adesh Gupta D&D: Mr. Kajal Sinha

C.G.M: Mr. S.S Lehri IT: Mr. Inderjit Singh
H.R: Mr. M.S Sharma Excise: Mr. Pramod Bansal
Finance: Mr. Ajay Dhingra Lab: Mr. Suresh Kumar
Production: Mr. State Khare
Domestic: Mr. Raman Bansal
Export: Mr. Sunil Goel
Institutional Sales: Mr. Haemant Mohan
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ORGANISATION CHART OF INSTITUTION SALES DEPARTMENT

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5. SWOT Analysis
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Strengths

Track record of growth in turnover and profits

Superior quality

Vast experience in domestic and export market

Weaknesses

High prices

High lead time

Less Variety in sports shoes

Opportunity

Quicker response to customers need

To increase share in non leather products

Threats

Heavy competition

More aggressive marketing by foreign competitors in sports shoe markets

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6. Financial Statement Analysis

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6.1 Introduction

The management, creditors, investors and others who have interest with the organization form
judgement about the operating performance and the financial position of the concern by using the
information contained in the financial statements. Users of financial statements can get further
insights about the strengths and weaknesses of the firm if they properly analyze information
reported in these statements. Management should be particularly interested in the knowing the
financial strengths of the firm to make their best use and able to spout out the financial weakness
of the firm to take suitable corrective actions. The future plans should be taken in the light of
strengths and weaknesses of the firm. Thus financial analysis is the starting point for making the
plans before using any sophisticated forecasting and planning procedures.

The RATIO ANALYSIS is one of the most powerful tools of financial analysis. It is one of the
techniques of the financial analysis where ratios are used as yardsticks for evaluating the
financial condition and performance of the firm. It is with the help of ratios that the financial
statements can be analyzed more clearly and decisions made from such analysis. Analysis and
interpretation of gives a better understanding of the financial conditions of the firm than what
could have obtained only through the perusal of financial statements.

6.2 Objectives of Ratio Analysis

Ratios are regarded as the true test of earning capacity, financial soundness and operating
efficiency of a business organization. In other words, the objective of using ratios in accounting
and financial management analysis is to test the profitability, financial position (liquidity and
solvency) and operating efficiency of an enterprise.

o To analyze the trends in the past years.

o To analyze the firm’s ability to bear the current liability
o To know the extent to which the firm has used the long term solvency by borrowing the
funds
o To determine the overall operating efficiency and performance of the firm.
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o To analyze the efficiency with which the firm is utilizing its assets in generating the sales
revenue

6.3 The following ratios are calculated

I. Liquidity Ratios

II. Efficiency Ratios

III. Solvency Ratios

IV. Profitability Ratios

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Liquidity Ratios

6.3.1 Current Ratio

Current ratio is used to make the analysis of a short-term financial position of a firm. It tells the
relationship between current assets & current liabilities.

Formula= Current Assets/Current Liabilities

2007 2008 2009

Current Assets 1324671440 1353758087 1254411337

Current Liabilities 435353212 429374450 442519417

Ratio 1.31 1.36 1.41

Interpretation:

Practically thumb rule of current ratio is 1.33:1 . Current ratio for all the years is near to thumb
rule so it can be said that it is satisfactory. And current ratios are increasing from the previous
years. It means company is able to pay its current obligations.
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6.3.2 Quick Asset Ratio

It is also known as acid test ratio or liquid ratio. It establishes a relationship between liquid assets &
current liabilities.

Quick Assets= Current Assets- Inventories- Prepaid Expenses

2007 2008 2009

Quick Assets 330868441.12 3392058155 380566699

Current Liabilities 435353212 42,93,74450 44,25,19,417

Ratio 0.76 0.79 0.86

Interpretation:

The rule of thumb quick ratio is 1:1. Company is able to fulfill the thumb rule of quick ratio.
This indicates that the company has the ability to pay its current liabilities on time
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II. Efficiency Ratios

6.3.4 Stock Turnover Ratio

This ratio indicates the number of times the stock has been turned over in an accounting period and
evaluates the efficiency with which a firm is able to manage its inventory.

Formula= COGS/Avg. Inventory at Cost

2007 2008 2009

COGS 2025245586 2574903304.87 2639661276.8

Avg. Inventory 649117175 761805711.5 717299260

Ratio 3.12 times 3.38 times 3.68 times

Interpretation:

Inventory turnover ratio indicates the velocity with which stock of finished goods is sold. A high
ratio suggests efficient inventory control and sound sales policies, reputation in the market, better
competitive capacity where as low ratio suggests the possibility of slow moving items and poor
selling policy. The analysis shows that the turnover ratio has been improved every year which
means company is showing improvement in selling policies.
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6.3.5 Inventory Conversion Period

It is the average time taken to clear the stocks.

Formula= Days/Stock Turnover Ratio

2007 2008 2009

Days 365 365 365

Stock Turnover 3.12 times 3.38 times 3.68 times

Ratio
Months (approx.) 116 days 107 days 99 days

Interpretation:

From the above table & graph, it can be interpreted that inventory conversion period is
decreasing. It means that the time taken to sell the stock is improving and the company is able to
sell the stock in less time compare to earlier years.
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6.3.6Debtors Turnover ratio

Debtors turnover ratio indicates the velocity of debt collection of the firm.

Formula= Net Credit Sales/Avg. Trade Debtors

2007 2008 2009

Net Credit Sales 2375448269 2478507881 2404437901

Avg. Trade Debtors 602140145.5 722521228.5 714235238.5

Ratio 3.94 times 3.43 times 3.36 times

Interpretation:

Generally higher the value of debtors, turnover the more efficient is the management of sales.
This ratio is decreasing from last 3 years means that debtors are becoming less liquid.
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6.3.7 Debtor Collection Period

It represents the average number of days for which a firm has to wait before its receivables are converted
into cash.

Formula= Days/Debtors Turnover Ratio

2007 2008 2009

Days 365 365 365

Debtor Turnover ratio 3.94 times 3.43 times 3.36

Collection Period 92 days 106 days 108.6 days

(approx.)

Interpretation:

Collection period from debtors is increasing from the last three years means that time taken to
receive payments from debtors in increasing. The company needs to improve that.
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6.3.8 Creditors Turnover Ratio

The creditor’s turnover ratio indicates the velocity with in which the creditors are turned over in
relation to purchase.

Formula= Net Credit Purchases/ Avg. Creditors

2007 2008 2009

Net Credit Purchases 1212249787 1319594764 1164316511

Avg. Creditors 222905064.5 314900084 324621164.5

Ratio 5.43 times 4.19 times 3.58 times

Interpretation:

If the payable turnover ratio is high the company in not using the credit facility and may believe
in availing cash discounts. On the other hand lower the ratio; better the liquidity position of the
company because the higher creditors turnover ratio signifies that creditors are being paid
promptly.
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6.3.9 Creditor Payment period

Formula= Days/Creditors Turnover Ratio

2007 2008 2009

Days 365 365 365

Creditor Turnover ratio 5.43 4.19 3.58

Payment Period (approx.) 67 days 87 days 102 days

Interpretation:

It can be interpreted that the company is enjoying high credit facilities and able to maintain high
liquidity in the organization.
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III. Solvency Ratios

6.3.11 Debt-Equity Ratio

Debt Equity Ratio is calculated to measure the extent to which debt financing has been used in the
business.

2007 2008 2009

Debt 1279548711 1208157589 1016862654

Equity 816740225 1148189285 1223398993

Ratio 1.56 1.05 0.83

Interpretation:

Acceptable limit for debt equity ratio is 2:1, but generally it should be less so that the company
does not completely exhaust its borrowing capacities. The portion of debt is more in the capital
structure of the company.
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IV. Profitability Ratios

6.3.14 Gross Profit Ratio

G.P Ratio: This measures the relationship of gross profit to net sales and usually represented as
percentage.

Formula= GP/ Net Sales

Where, Gross Profit = Net Sales – COGS

2007 2008 2009

Gross Profit 1018095727 1089921599 955453553

Net Sales 2375448269 2578934907 2475266480

Ratio 42.8 % 42.2 % 38 %

Interpretation:

A high ratio is a sign of good management as it implies that the cost of production of the firm is
low. It may also be indicative of a higher sales price without a corresponding increase in COGS.
A firm should have a reasonable gross margin to ensure adequate coverage for operating
expenses of the firm and sufficient returns to the owners of the business. The above Table and
Figure shows that GP margin has decreased slightly in each year from the previous year.
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6.3.18 Earning Per Share

2007 2008 2009

Net profit after tax 289043098 388659777 403869485

No. of Equity Shares 28933243 41258999 91166926

Rs. 9.99 9.42 4.43

Interpretation:

EPS has decreased with the years which indicate that company is on the way of decreasing
wealth.
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Chapter- 1
Introduction to the Project
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Safety Shoes

Safety shoes are meant to provide protection to the feet under extreme conditions such as to
avoid shocks, abrasion resistance, oil resistance, heat resistance and others.

There may be different types of safety shoes. In this project we are talking about the safety shoes
that are used in industries for the safety of workers working in industries. There are different
types of industries where safety shoes are used. Example:

o Automobile industry
o Construction industry
o Chemical industry
o Cement industry
o Pharmaceutical industry etc.

There are a lot of safety shoe companies in India. Major players in this category are liberty, Bata,
Relaxo, Action, Supernova, Tiger etc. There is neck to neck competition between all these
players.

This project is to find out that how much potential of safety shoes exist in the market i.e. what
are the features that are considered by the customers while purchasing safety shoes. And the
brands that are most preferred by the customers. And there by finding the potential of safety
shoes of Liberty.
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Need of the study

As in this competition era you must be aware about the customer needs & wants & what a
customer expects from the company. You must have this information or a customer data base if
u wants to stay in the market to have competitive edge in the market. After conducting
this study we must be able to understand what customer’s wants from a brand, why he switches
to other brand, what are the factors which force him to purchase Safety Shoes. This research will
tell what factor consumer wants. Thus he can convert maximum of potential customer into
buyers if he knows what exactly triggers the customer decision. On the other hand study will also
give an estimation of the demand of Safety Shoes in North India. This study will help Liberty in
formulating strategies as per the customer needs & deliver them the products which they want
from the company which will be profitable for the company.

Objectives of the Study

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To find out Factors considered while purchasing Safety Shoes.

To find out the preference of customers regarding the safety shoes.
To know the frequency of purchase of safety shoes.
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Chapter-2
Review of Literature

Aarkstore (2010) in his research derived that global rubber gloves market is growing with
rising market trends. The opportunity section highlights scope for Gloves in the present
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market scenario by replacing Natural Latex Gloves. The report also discusses leading
players in the market, with an overview of their business and strategies.

Lilly (2010) in his study concluded that brands need to deliver on their value proposition,
as well as dislodge someone else from the consumer’s preference set to move consumers
fro trial to preference. Pricing, promotional deals and product availability, all have
tremendous impact on the position of the brand in the consumer’s preference set.

Ahmadi et al (2009) concluded that there is a system of law enforcement. This is an

important step in assessing the underlying factors that provoke motorcyclists to either not
use or misuse a safety helmet. Further studies are needed to investigate how "risks" are
perceived and relate to "reactions", and how a 'culture of masculinity' may encourage risk
tolerance and a disposition toward lawlessness and carelessness among male
motorcyclists.The present study also alludes to the need for the development and
implementation of comprehensive and multidimensional interventions that would offer
socio-culturally sensitive educational and motivational messages to the motorcyclists and
the in-service traffic-enforcement officers in Iran.

Euromonitor (2009) in the research found out that clothing and footwear market in India
is growing at a very fast rate and this analysis by distribution format allow finding the
sectors driving growth.

Mukhopadhya and Paswan (2008) in their research inferred that Safety measures are
major concerns in productivity enhancement in steel producing plant. Various types of
accidents in iron making division are being monitored and all incidents are investigated.
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Cast house operation is a special field and hazards and safety precaution may differ from
case to case depending upon the company, operating practice, country’s law, rules and
regulations, the size and capacity of the blast furnace, working environment, average age
of workers, expertise and educational level of the working employees, approach of
management and so on.

Sharma et al (2007) concluded that Double gloving offers considerable protection against
exposure to contaminants in the blood and body fluids of the patient and should be made
routine, especially in developing countries where HIV, hepatitis B and C are widely
prevalent. Double gloving should be made mandatory in emergency procedures, which
have a higher perforation rate due to operative urgency, and gloves should be changed in
operations lasting for more than 40 min to ensure integrity of barrier.

Boyer et al (2005) found out that footwear research has made substantial progress in last
30 years. The new methodology and the bright young researchers joined the field will
provide additional substantial and exciting development and progress in the next ten
years.
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Chapter – 3
Research Methodology
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Research

Research can be defined as systematic investigation to establish facts.

Research methodology is defined as a highly intellectual human activity used in the investigation
of nature and matter and deals specifically with the manner in which the data is collected,
analyzed and interpreted.

Research Design

Research design is a blueprint for any kind of research. It provides direction to the researcher for
further carrying on the research in the Population. Research design provides the glue that holds
the research project together. A design is used to structure the research, to show how all of the
major parts of the research project- the samples or groups, measures, treatments or programs, and
methods of assignment- work together to try to address the central research questions. A research
design lays the foundation for conducting the project. A good research will ensure that the
research project is conducted effectively and efficiently. Research design involves following
components or tasks:-

Define the information needed

Design the exploratory, descriptive and causal phases of research.
Specify the measurement and scaling procedure.
Construct a questionnaire or an appropriate form for data collection
Specify the sampling process and sample size
Develop a plan for data analysis

Types of Research Designs:-

1. Exploratory Design.
2. Descriptive Design.
3. Causal Design.

In doing this research descriptive research design is used

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Descriptive Design

Descriptive research also known as statistical research, describes data and characteristics about
the population or phenomenon being studied. It basically deals with everything that can be
counted and studied. Descriptive research is preplanned and structured. A descriptive design
requires clear specification of the WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY and WAY (the six
Ws) of the research.

The objective is to know the percentage (%) of phenomenon in population.

 All perceptual studies are come under Descriptive study.

 Where comparisons of two variables are done that is descriptive research.
 In this design the variables are being predicted.
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Sampling Plan

Sample

A sample is a sub – group of the elements of the population selected for participation in the
study.

Sampling plan

Sampling is one of the most important aspects of Research design. It involves several basic
questions like should sample be taken, the size of sample, the kind of sample, process to be
followed etc. The objective of most marketing research projects is to get information about the
parameters of population.

Sampling unit

It is the basic unit containing the elements of the sample to be collected.

Here the sampling unit comprises of respondents as industries from all the states of north India.

Sampling Technique

For conducting this research I had used

Convenience sampling

Convenience Sampling: It is a Non – probability sampling technique that attempts to obtain a

sample of convenient elements. The selection of sampling units is left primarily to the researcher.
It is an easy to measure and accessible.

Universe:

Universe comprises of all the Industries as customers of safety shoes.

Population

It is the aggregate of all the elements that share some common characteristics and which
comprise the universe for the purpose of marketing research problem. Population in this study is
all the industries in North India.
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Sampling Size

It refers to the number of elements to be included in the study and for conducting this research I
have selected sample size of 100 respondents

Data Collection
There are two types of Data Collection methods which are as following:-

1. Primary Research
2. Secondary Research.

Primary Research

Primary research (also called field research) involves the collection of data that does not already
exist. This can be through numerous forms, including Questionnaires and telephone interviews
amongst others.

Secondary Research
Secondary research (also called desk research) involves the summary, collation and/or synthesis
of existing research rather than primary research, where data is collected from, for example,
research subjects or experiments.

In doing this research the both methods are being used.

Primary data is being collected by direct interview through Schedules.

Secondary data is being collected with the help of internet.
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Limitations of the Study

The main constraint in the study was time; the duration of training was not enough so as to carry

out this survey all across India. Due to lack of time the study was conducted in North India only.

Scaling and rating questions were not considered in the study because responses were collected

through telephonic interview.

Non-cooperative approach and rude behavior of the respondents.

Biased Respondents.
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Chapter- 4
Data Analysis & Interpretation

Table no. 4.1

Title: - No. of Respondents procuring safety shoes
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Options No. of respondents

Yes 100

No 0

Analysis and Interpretation:

From the above graph it can be analyzed that 100% respondents are procuring safety shoes for
their employees. It shows that all my respondents are very particular about the safety and it is an
essential part for industries where safety is required.
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Table: 4.2

Title: preference of Brand of Safety Shoes by the customers

Options No. of respondents

Liberty 33
Bata 20
Action 11
Other 36

Analysis and Interpretation:

From this table it can be analyzed that maximum of our respondents i.e. 36 like to buy shoes of
other brands that include relaxo, supernova and mostly local brands. 33 respondents like to buy
Liberty followed by bata and action.
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Table 4.3

Title: Either procuring from company or dealers

Options No. of respondents

Company 83

Dealers 17

Analysis and Interpretation:

Maximum people are procuring shoes from directly company and not dealers because they face
problem of replacement and bad service from the dealers while these kinds of problems are
hardly faced when they procure it directly from the company.

And the few one who are procuring it from dealers find it easy to approach to dealers rather
approaching directly the company.
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Table: 4.4

Title: Price Range of shoes procured by the customers

Options No. of responses

200-400 41
400-600 18
600-800 14
800-1000 27

Analysis & Interpretation:

From it can be analyzed that maximum i.e. 41 of respondents like to purchase shoes ranging
from 200-400. 27 of them like to buy shoes ranging from 800-1000 followed by 18 respondents
like to purchase shoe ranging from 400- 600 and 14 of them in price range of 600-800.

So it can be interpreted here that most of the respondents do not want to spend much on the
safety shoes.
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Table: 4.5

Title: Either just one type of safety shoes are procured by customers or not.

Options No. of respondents

Yes 80

No 20

Analysis & Interpretation:

From this table it can be analyzed that 80 people out of 100 are using just one type of safety
shoes and 20 out of 100 are using more than one type of safety shoes.
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Table: 4.6

Title: Frequency of purchase of safety shoes

Options No. of responses

Once a year 66

Twice a year 34

Thrice a year 00

Analysis & Interpretation:

From the above graph I came to know that 66respondents out of 100 procure safety shoes once a
year. And 34 out of 100 procure them for twice a year and none of the respondents procure it for
thrice a year. So it can be interpreted that most of the industries procure it for once only in few
cases they procure it for twice a year if new employees are being employed
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Table: 4.7

Title: Factors considered

Options No. of Responses

Price 77

Comfort 16

Design 9

Durability 40

Quality 76

Analysis and Interpretation:

From this research I came to know that most important factor that is considered while purchasing
safety shoe is Price and after that it is quality. And least important factor is comfort and design.

So it can be interpreted that people want to buy fine quality shoes in suitable prices. Neither they
want to pay much for the shoes nor can they compromise with quality.
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Table: 4.8

Title: Sole that is preferred in Safety Shoes

Options No. of responses

PU Sole 61

Rubber Sole 39

Analysis & Interpretation:

From this question I came to know that 61 respondents out of 100 are procuring safety shoes
made up of PU sole and only 39 are procuring shoes made up of rubber sole.
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Table: 4.9

Title: Problems faced by the customers regarding Safety Shoes

Options No. of Responses

Size 35
Wrinkles 36
Sole cracking 27
Others 19
No Problem 29

Analysis & Interpretation:

Most of the problems faced by the customer regarding safety shoes is size and wrinkles and least
is other problems like lead time and regarding services. And there are some customers who are
satisfied with the shoes they are procuring and having no problem.
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Chapter- 5
Results, findings and
Conclusion
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o As far as present potential of Liberty is concerned. There are 14 customers which are
buying shoes ranging from 600-800 . and out of which 10 are of Liberty.. and there are 27
customers which are buying shoes ranging more than 800 rs. And out of that 23 are of
liberty..
So there are 8 customers out of 100 customers which are untapped by liberty.

o From this research I came to know that mostly people prefer to buy shoes of other brands
most of which are of local brands. And are not costly. Most of them lie in the price range
of 200-400. Which implies they do not want to spend much on their employees

o Maximum respondents like to buy shoes of PU sole which is a flexible sole.

o Price and Quality are the two most important features whixh they take into consider
before purchasing shoes.and do not give much importance to design. Because design does
not play important role in safety of shoe.

o 36% i.e. maximum people are facing problems regarding size.

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Chapter- 6
Recommendations &
Suggestions
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Either the company should decrease the prices or the shoes of less price range should also
be there so that need of every kind of customers could be fulfilled.

Lead time should be decreased.

More attention should be paid to customers complaints

The placement of defected pairs should be paid more attention so as to remove

dissatisfaction.

A company should regularly visit the industries and listen to their complaints.

Some planning and meetings of company executives should be there so as to avoid

complications.
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Thorough inspection of stocks should be done to avoid mixing of inferior quality stock
with fresh stock.
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Bibliography

 www.liberty.in
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 www.libertyshoes.com
 www.wikipedia.com

 Aarkstore enterprise, “ An analysis of global rubber glove market.” June 2010, July 21;
< http://prlog.org/10748969>.

 Lilly J., “Customer Perception and Preference towards Branded Products”, “Indian
Journal of Marketing”, Vol. XXXX, No. 2, Feb 2010, Pg (49-55).

 Ahmadi. Fazlollah, Hejazi. Shahrzad, Mohammadi. Eesa, “Motorcyclist reactions to

safety helmet law.” October 2009, July 21; <ahmadif@modares.ac.ir >

 Eurominator International, “recently released market study on footwear and clothing

market in India.” 2009, july 22; http://www.pr-inside.com/recently-released-market-
study-clothing-r1628990.htm

 Mukhopadhya.A, Paswan.M, “study on safety measures in steel plant” September 2008,

july22;

 Arora.Rakesh, Sharma.Jai bhagwan, Wadhwa.Leena , “Prospective study of glove

perforation in obstetrical and gynecological operations.” 2007, july 22.

 Boyer.Kath, Cole.Gerald, Nigg.Beno, “ Footwear Research- Past, Present and Future.”

2005, july22; < www.staffs.ac.uk/isb-fw/ISBFootwear.../Nigg_Keynote.pdf>
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Appendix
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