Retail

In a strategic move to elevate Uttarakhand's local economy and promote indigenous products, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated a flagship outlet of House of Himalayas—an umbrella brand for hill-based goods—at Jolly Grant Airport. This initiative, aimed at expanding market access for regional farmers and artisans, also includes plans to establish a Centre of Excellence for research and promotion.

India’s automobile retail market posted modest growth of 2.95% year-on-year in April 2025, with total retail volumes reaching 22,87,952 units. Positive festive tailwinds during Chaitra Navratri, Akshay Tritiya, and regional New Year celebrations helped lift demand. Most categories, including two-wheelers, passenger vehicles (PVs), and tractors, closed in the green, while commercial vehicle (CV) sales dipped slightly. Rural demand rebounded post-harvest, but urban sentiment remained tempered by financing constraints and inventory overhang.

India’s retail inflation for agricultural and rural workers has shown a significant decline in March 2025, with inflation rates falling to 3.73% for farm workers and 3.86% for rural labourers. This marks a substantial improvement compared to February 2025, where rates stood at 4.05% and 4.10%, respectively. The All-India Consumer Price Index (CPI) for Agricultural Labourers (CPI-AL) and Rural Labourers (CPI-RL) decreased by 3 and 2 points, respectively.

IKEA is recalibrating its growth strategy in India by focusing on smaller-format stores, targeting tier II and III cities. The company plans to launch compact stores, potentially as small as 10,000 square feet, in neighborhood malls and high streets, making its products more accessible to a broader customer base. Alongside physical stores, IKEA is also expanding its online presence in key cities.

Shoppers Stop, a leading retail chain, has reported a staggering 91.4% drop in its consolidated profit for the March quarter, amounting to Rs 1.99 crore, compared to Rs 23.18 crore in the same period last year. Despite the significant dip in profit, the company experienced a modest 1.68% growth in revenue, reaching Rs 1,064 crore. Shoppers Stop’s performance reflects ongoing macroeconomic pressures, but the company is optimistic about its future prospects, citing structural changes and an evolving consumer market as key drivers.

Trent Ltd, a leading retail arm of the Tata Group, reported a significant decline in consolidated net profit for the fourth quarter ended March 31, 2025, with a drop of 56.24% to Rs 311.60 crore. Despite this, the company posted a robust 27.87% increase in revenue, reaching Rs 4,216.94 crore. The retail firm, which operates well-known brands like Westside, Zudio, and Star, saw a rise in total income and a steady increase in profits for the entire fiscal year 2025. This mixed financial performance reflects both the challenges and opportunities in India’s dynamic retail sector.

Reliance Retail, the country’s leading retailer, has experienced remarkable growth in its hyperlocal delivery segment, with orders increasing by 2.4 times in the March quarter. The company is aggressively expanding its quick-commerce services, leveraging its extensive store network and planning to introduce dark stores in areas with high demand. The company is focusing on fast delivery times, offering under-30-minute services, and has made substantial inroads with its JioMart app.

Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd (RRVL), the retail arm of Reliance Industries Ltd, concluded FY25 with strong financial performance, reporting a 29.1% rise in net profit to Rs. 3,545 crore for the March quarter. The company also posted a 15.65% increase in gross quarterly revenue to Rs. 88,620 crore, supported by continued momentum in digital commerce and an expanding store footprint. Annual revenue climbed to Rs. 3,30,870 crore, while profit after tax reached Rs. 12,388 crore.

Reliance Retail’s consumer business has emerged as its fastest-growing vertical in India, reporting a remarkable Rs. 11,500 crore in revenue for FY25. Powered by strategic acquisitions, product launches, and an expansive distribution footprint, the company has rapidly scaled its presence in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. Key brands such as Campa and Independence have recorded significant market penetration, with Campa Cola achieving double-digit market shares in core territories.

MMTC-PAMP, India's leading gold and silver refinery, has launched its first exclusive brand store in New Delhi, marking a significant step in its plans to expand across the country. The store, which offers 24-carat and 999.9+ pure gold and silver coins and bars, represents the company’s strategy to increase its retail presence. With a target of 200 stores nationwide, MMTC-PAMP is aiming to enhance customer experience and bring its premium precious metal products directly to consumers.