HOW TO START A CUSTOM JERSEY BUSINESS IN INDIA

The custom jersey market in India is growing rapidly, driven by rising sports culture, IPL popularity, and social media. Starting a jersey business can be profitable with the right approach. Here's what you need to know.

TWO BUSINESS MODELS

You can either invest in your own sublimation printing setup (higher investment, higher margins) or work as a reseller partnering with an established manufacturer (lower investment, lower margins but faster start). Most successful jersey businesses in India started as resellers before investing in their own equipment.

INVESTMENT FOR OWN SETUP

A basic sublimation printing setup requires a sublimation printer, heat press machine, computer with design software, raw fabric stock, and cutting and stitching equipment. Total investment ranges from a few lakhs for a basic setup to significantly more for a fully equipped factory.

THE RESELLER MODEL

Partner with an established manufacturer who handles production. You focus on marketing, customer acquisition, and order management. Your investment is primarily in branding, marketing, and working capital. This model works especially well if you have strong local networks in sports communities.

FINDING CUSTOMERS

Start with your personal network — local cricket clubs, school teams, corporate sports events. Build an Instagram presence showcasing your designs. List on platforms like IndiaMart and JustDial. Create a WhatsApp catalog for easy sharing. Attend local tournaments and sports events to network with team organizers.

PRICING STRATEGY

Research local competition and price competitively. Offer volume discounts to incentivize larger orders. Create package deals (jersey + shorts + cap) for higher average order value. And always deliver quality — repeat customers and referrals are the backbone of the jersey business.

Interested in partnering with Athenax as a reseller? WhatsApp us for reseller pricing and terms.