Taking an Indian D2C Brand Global: A Step-by-Step Playbook

Expanding an Indian D2C brand beyond borders is an exciting yet complex journey. From picking the right market to managing compliance, pricing, and fulfillment—every step requires strategic planning.

?? Where to Sell?

• The US is a no-brainer but highly competitive.
• The UK and UAE offer easier access.
• Australia and Canada have stricter compliance but potential niche demand.
• Saudi Arabia & Indonesia are emerging opportunities.

?? Winning Categories from India ? Price Competitiveness: Handmade goods, embroidery, customized products. ? Product Quality: Leather goods, premium home décor, ayurvedic products. ? Geographical Edge: Ayurveda, yoga, herbal supplements, homeopathic products.

?? Key Challenges to Solve

• Shipping & Returns: Free sizing products (scarves, shawls) work better than apparel due to return complexity.
• Marketplace vs. D2C?: Marketplaces like Amazon & Walmart offer easier entry, but ad spend is crucial for visibility.
• Compliance & Regulations: The US has the highest compliance costs, while the UAE is the easiest to enter.

?? How Does the Math Work?

• A product selling for ?100 in India typically retails at ?250-?300 internationally.
• Margins & Costs Breakdown: 10-15%: Cost of goods sold 30-40%: Supply chain & logistics 15-20%: Marketplace commissions 10-15%: Advertising spend Final Margin: 10-30%, depending on strategy.

?? Pro Tip: The first 6-12 months are for market-building, not immediate profits. Brands investing in digital ads, influencers, and reviews early on tend to win long-term.

?? The world is your marketplace. The question is—how will you take your brand global?

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