Indian Retail Landscape, Game of Thrones: Physical, Digital or Quick!

Retail is the Most Visible Face of the Progress of Consumerism.

- Govind Shrikhande

The Variety of Products, Brands, Channels, and Players are a testimony of a country's path towards Active Consumerism. India has had a History of rich traditions in Textiles and Handicrafts, and its markets have always been lively & colourful.

It is a country full of diversity - Language, Religion, Food, Movies, Festivals, etc. A hard-fought battle is in progress for the Game of Thrones in Indian Retail in 2025.

So who will be the Winner amongst the Rivalries, Plots and Twists amongst this Drama ??? Let us understand the various aspects of Indian Retail before we come to the conclusion ...

Indian Retail's Evolution

Indian Retail has gone through many versions over the last 77 Years

Version 1 - From 1947 to the 1990s

Driven by Haths/Week end Markets, Exclusive Outlets of Textile and Footwear Companies- Calico, DCM, Bata, Corona, etc, Rationing shops and mainly shortages ... Sellers had a dominant hold during the period.

Version 2 - 1991 to 2005

Organised Physical Retail is born with the birth of Shoppers Stop, Pantaloon, Westside, Lifestyle, Big Bazar and the entry of many Global Brands like Levi. Malls started the journey of Modern shopping with a mix of shopping, dining and entertainment.

Version 3 - 2005 to 2020

Biggies like Reliance entered the market, Walmart tied up with Bharti BT Exied, Acquired Flipkart, Amazon entered India, & Online shopping started making an impact in a few categories - while incurring big losses. Mall Rats started growing their Tribe. Online players bought in Convenience and Endless choice.

Version 4 - Post 2021