Nappa Dori eyes global expansion, set to launch men’s apparel line

Gautam Sinha, founder of Luxury leather goods and lifestyle brand Nappa Dori
| Photo Credit:
MEETA AHLAWAT

Luxury leather goods and lifestyle brand Nappa Dori is preparing to open its first standalone men’s apparel store in Gurugram this year, even as it eyes deeper expansion in the Middle East and London.

With a presence in Dubai and London already, and over 1,500 SKUs spanning leather bags, stationery, home décor and now clothing, Nappa Dori is evolving into a full-fledged lifestyle brand. “We are seriously looking at the travel segment, especially airport stores. India is opening 24 to 28 new airports and that’s a key part of our growth story,” founder Gautam Sinha told businessline in an interview.

Despite the increasing consumer appetite for homegrown luxury, Sinha has stayed away from venture funding, citing the importance of creative control and brand integrity. “I could have made a lot of money a lot quicker… but I have picked a harder route. It’s a grind, but one that’s worth the wait,” he said.

Nappa Dori, which has five Café Dori locations, including one in Hyderabad, is also planning smaller café formats and deeper southern expansion. The brand grew 50–60 per cent year-on-year over the past three years, according to Sinha, who confirmed that the company is profitable and self-funded.

While the brand’s initial proposition was focused on premium leather goods, its expansion into home, fashion and F&B reflects a broader strategy to position itself as an experiential lifestyle label from India. “Scarcity is luxury as well. You don’t need to be everything to everyone,” Sinha said.

With its eye firmly set on legacy, not just valuation, Nappa Dori now plans to scale selectively — and on its own terms. “Legacies are not made overnight. We are trying to create a brand from India which people will remember,” he said.

Published on May 3, 2025