Virat Kohli's Stake in Agilitas Sports Rises to 6.4% After One8 Merger

Virat Kohli's ownership in Agilitas Sports has increased to 6.4% following the NCLT-approved One8 merger, supporting the company's ambition to build a global Indian sportswear brand.

Virat Kohli's Stake in Agilitas Sports Increases to 6.4%

Indian cricketer Virat Kohli's stake in sportswear company Agilitas Sports has risen from 1.8% to 6.4% following the National Company Law Tribunal's (NCLT) approval of the merger involving his lifestyle and sportswear brand, One8.

Kohli had invested ₹40 crore in Agilitas last year, acquiring a minority stake in the company. Under the approved merger arrangement, One8 Sports has become a wholly owned subsidiary of Agilitas, with Kohli's existing shareholding in One8 transferred to the parent company.

The transaction strengthens the relationship between Kohli and Agilitas while bringing the One8 brand into a larger sportswear business.

One8 to Benefit From Agilitas' Manufacturing and Retail Network

The merger will allow One8 to use Agilitas' established capabilities across product design, research and development, manufacturing and retail operations.

This integration is expected to support the brand's product development and distribution as it looks to expand its presence in India's competitive sportswear market.

Kohli will continue to serve as One8's co-founder and remain actively involved in the brand's development and future growth.

Agilitas also plans to establish exclusive One8 outlets, giving the brand a dedicated retail presence and greater control over its customer experience.

Agilitas Targets International Expansion for One8

Agilitas aims to take One8 beyond India and establish it in international markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

The company has set an ambitious revenue target of ₹2,000 crore to ₹3,000 crore for One8 over the next four to six years.

Abhishek Ganguly, co-founder of Agilitas Sports and former managing director of Puma India, said the merger would create significant business opportunities by combining One8's brand identity with Agilitas' operational capabilities.

He said the objective is to develop One8 into a globally recognised sportswear brand originating from India.

Virat Kohli's Vision for Building One8

Kohli said he had been closely involved in developing One8 since its early days. His participation included decisions related to technology, materials and product design.

He expressed his ambition to build a sportswear label that could establish an independent identity and become part of consumers' everyday lifestyles.

His continued involvement is expected to provide the brand with a strong connection to sports and fitness audiences as it expands its product range and geographical reach.

Agilitas' Brand Portfolio Includes Lotto and Mochiko Shoes

Apart from One8, Agilitas has several businesses and brands under its portfolio. These include Italian sportswear label Lotto, footwear manufacturer Mochiko Shoes and Sports Yard, a multi-brand retail format.

Mochiko manufactures footwear for several international brands, including Adidas, Puma, Skechers, New Balance, Reebok and Asics. Its manufacturing capabilities provide Agilitas with an established presence in the footwear supply chain.

Ganguly also said Lotto generated more than ₹100 crore in revenue during its first year in India, indicating the potential of the company's brand-building strategy.

Agilitas Plans Sports Yard Expansion and New Brand Launch

Agilitas is looking to strengthen its retail operations through the expansion of Sports Yard. The company plans to open 10 new Sports Yard stores over the next six months.

It is also preparing to introduce another brand as part of its strategy to broaden its presence in the sportswear and lifestyle market.

These initiatives are expected to complement the company's manufacturing operations and brand portfolio.

Company Plans Private Equity Fundraising

To finance its expansion plans, Agilitas is preparing to raise equity capital through a private funding round. The proposed fundraising is expected to support investments across manufacturing, retail infrastructure and brand development.

Ganguly said the company's long-term ambition is to build a major global business from India rather than focus exclusively on the domestic market.

Agilitas Aims to Build a Global Sportswear Business

The One8 merger represents an important step in Agilitas Sports' expansion strategy. With Kohli's increased stake, One8's integration into its operations and plans for international markets, the company is positioning itself for a larger role in the global sportswear industry.

Its ability to strengthen manufacturing, expand retail operations and build consumer-focused brands will be important in achieving its long-term growth ambitions.

Conclusion

The One8 merger marks a significant step in Agilitas Sports' growth strategy, with Virat Kohli increasing his stake to 6.4%. Backed by Agilitas' manufacturing, design and retail capabilities, One8 aims to expand internationally and build a strong global sportswear identity. The company's planned investments, new stores and brand expansion will be crucial to achieving its long-term revenue ambitions.