Ghodawat Retail opens Star Localmart’s 120th store, aims to be top rural retail chain

With a mission to bring a modern retail experience to Bharat, focusing on smaller towns of India; the retail arm of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG), Ghodawat Retail opened its 120th Star Localmart store in Examba, Belgaum District of Karnataka. 

The company says it will open another 5 stores by the end of July in Maharashta and Karnataka. Marking a notable expansion in the local market, the total number of stores has increased to 61 in Karnataka. “This will further strengthen the company's vision to become India’s largest rural retail chain by opening 3,000 stores by 2030, creating over 25,000 employment opportunities, strengthening local supply chains, and empowering micro-entrepreneurs through franchise opportunities, “ shares the company statement. 

Srinivas Kolluru, Business Head, Ghodawat Retail Pvt. Ltd., says, "Star Localmart is built on the vision of empowering communities by bringing quality, affordability, and trusted brands closer to home. Our new store in Examba is another step towards strengthening rural retail networks and making everyday essentials easily accessible to all. Through this expansion, we are not just opening stores — we are creating meaningful employment opportunities and contributing to the economic growth of smaller towns and villages. By combining local understanding with modern retail practices, we aim to deliver a convenient shopping experience while supporting the growth and progress of rural India. Our journey towards 3,000 stores nationwide reflects our commitment to reach deeper into the heart of India and transform the way Bharat shops." 

Star Localmart has aimed to redefine neighborhood grocery shopping by bridging the gap between traditional Kirana stores and modern supermarkets. The journey began with the launch of the first store in Kolhapur. It stocks 50% national, 30% regional, and 20 % local brands. The company sells more than 3,000 different types of stock-keeping units (SKUs), which are a mix of Star and other national as well as regional brands. Star Localmart's expansion strategy is built on a COCO (Company-Owned, Company-Operated) model.