‘The Indian consumer is getting more demanding’

If you had to predict a trend in the retail sector, what would it be?
Organised Retail is making great inroads slowly but it will certainly grow at a higher speed in the coming days. The exposure is high about brands and stores.

Advertising by brands is high with new offers, new products, new styles, price range etc. The Indian consumer will be spoilt for choice because of the advent of international brands and local brands may suffer.

This also applies to durables and FMCG companies. Traditionally more buying takes place only during festive seasons. The retailers are fighting to promote shopping at all times of the year. This may also happen with growing income levels.

There’s this idea that sales help clear up old stocks to make way for new. Does profit come into the picture?
The ‘End of Season’ sales helps a brand to move into the next season without excess baggage. Apparels, footwear and accessories are perishable products. The objective is to clear stocks, but it’s up to the brand/store if they can make small or better margins. Liquidation or profits is a catch 22 situation, the challenge is to maintain a balance if you need to make profits.

What are people buying now?
Buying behaviour varies from city to city. Keeping in mind the festive season, starting with Ramadan Eid, Onam, Durga Pooja and Diwali, we are seeing a spurt in sales of denims, casual and formal shirts.

How has the Indian consumer’s mindset changed over the years, as more and more foreign brands launch their stores?
The Indian consumer is only getting more brand conscious with the exposure to international brands and high advertising is only fuelling the awareness. At the same time he is getting more educated on what he wants, price range, fit, style and even product technicalities. In short, he is getting more demanding.

We still love the ‘Buy 1, Get 1’ concept, don’t we?
It’s simple and doesn’t push the shopper to buy more. We run offers keeping in mind our merchandise and what consumers demand.