Abstract

This report examines in detail the changing dynamics in the Indian retailing industry at the turn of the 20th century, mainly driven by the growth of organized retailing sector and increased personal consumption of customers on account of rising incomes, increased exposure to foreign goods and growth in nuclear families and double income families. It discusses in detail the emerging trends in the retailing industry with help of examples such as FoodWorld and Subiksha (food retailing), Shoppers Stop and Westside (lifestyle/apparel/accessories retailing), Landmark (books retailing), Health & Glow and Shahnaz Husain (drugs and pharmacy & beauty). The report observes the changing dynamics in the FMCG sector through the late 20th century, which forced the FMCG majors to revamp their product, marketing, distribution formats to meet the changing customer requirements or preferences. In the light of this, the report discusses some innovative customer-centric initiatives taken by companies such as HLL, CavinKare and TVS. It finally explores future threats and opportunities for the retailing and FMCG industry in India.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Understand the nature and changing dynamics of the Indian retailing business and the reasons behind the evolution of many organized sector players
• Explore the need for innovations and customer-centric strategies in the retailing & FMCG businesses
• Examine and appreciate the new innovative business formats emerging in the Indian retailing and FMCG industry in the early 21st century

Keywords

Retailing and FMCG Industry in India, Food Retailing, Foodworld, Subiksha, Retailing of Lifestyle Products and Books, Shoppers' Stop, Westside, Landmark, Barista, Café Coffee Day, Retailing of Packaged Goods, Beauty and Healthcare Retailing, Retail Formats, Industry, TVS e-Shop