Skechers Footwear enters India. After success in Brazil and China, Sketchers USA Inc. announced the launch of the brand in India. Sketchers is poised to position itself as a global footwear powerhouse with a major presence in 5 of the world’s most populated countries.

Vietnam leather and footwear exports to top $6.2 billion according to the Leather and Footwear Research Institute. A large jump over the $5.3 billion from last year. There are over 700 firms with 70% doing sub-contracting work for larger foreign companies.

Zazzla launches men’s PRO-keds, the unique line of customizable sneakers are now available on the Zazzle family of websites and will be on the Keds website this Spring.

Crocs Inc. has appointed its second president and CEO in the span of a year. Crocs appointed Chief Operating Officer John McCarvel to President and Chief Executive Officer after former-CEO and President John Durden retired. The switch becomes official March 1st.

Ted Baker is focusing on a more mainstream customer for fall ’10. The eclectic label is offering a range of men’s styles — from hiking-inspired boots to patent slip-ons to sneakers in bold colors — at 20 percent less than last year. Retail prices now average $155 for dress shoes and $255 for boots. Widely available in the U.K., the line is also carried on Zappos.com, and the company is opening up to more U.S. independents this season.