Changing retail scene in India

Purpose - The research presented here aims to build a picture of the changes in retail taking place in India. India is poised to become a retail power house. The paper looks at the changing scene in the retail sector in view of many MNCs and large industries entering into this segment. Design/methodology/approach - Data were drawn from industry sources which included national and international published sources from 1993-2006. Findings - The findings presented show that malls in 2006 are more developed in the North and West part of India. Food, groceries and apparel purchase by customers contributed to 52 percent. On average 75 percent of customers spend about 1-3 hours in the mall. Malls with multiplexes such as cinema theatres, food courts, play places for children are becoming the centre for family outings. Small retailers have improved their service to cater to Indian consumers. Credit limits and home service are helping them to hold on to their customers. Retailing focus is changing towards satisfying the different hierarchy of needs of customers. Research limitations/implications - All are from Indian perspectives which perhaps limits its usefulness else where in the world. Practical implication - A very useful source of information and review of this scenario which should help other retailers across the world, especially in developing economies, to face big giants more aggressively and do better. Originality/value - This paper fulfils an identified information/resources need and offers guidance to small retailers