Kerala retail-scape comes under the spotlight in RAI summit

The Kerala Retail Summit 2024, hosted by the Retailers Association of India (RAI) in collaboration with the Malabar Chamber of Commerce on October 9th, 2024, at the Crowne Plaza Kochi, brought together thought leaders, industry experts, and retail experts.  

The event served as a vital platform for stakeholders across various retail categories, to discuss the region's dynamic retail landscape and featured discussions on a wide range of topics, through expert panel discussions, moderated by industry leaders, along with keynotes from esteemed personalities. The topics for panel discussions included Hyperlocal Retail, The Dynamics Between Small and Big Retailers, Technological Trends, Visual Commerce, Branding Strategies, and Digital Payments.  

Speaking about the Kerala Retail Summit 2024, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, “Kerala holds great potential for retail, with its population being highly receptive to modern retail formats and innovations. The state’s literate and forward-thinking consumers offer a strong foundation for growth. By focusing on branding strategies, retail innovation, and technology, retailers can seize these opportunities to enhance customer experiences and further build the retail ecosystem in Kerala.”  

Deepak Aswani, Chairman of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), Kochi Chapter, and MD AswaniLachmandas Group, said, “Kerala’s retail landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by a unique blend of traditional values and modern consumer expectations. Retailers who understand and adapt to this shift are well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic environment. It's an exciting time to be part of Kerala's retail journey as we embrace innovation and growth.”  

Mathew Joseph, Chief Operating Officer, FreshToHome, said, “Retail today is shaped by consumers who prioritise both quality and transparency. As the market evolves, businesses that stay focused on delivering trust and value will succeed. It’s about aligning innovation with customer expectations and continuously adapting to the changing landscape."  

Nityanand Kamath, President, Malabar Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director, Ace Group of Companies, said, “Kerala’s retail sector is at a pivotal point where tradition meets modernity, offering unique growth opportunities. Businesses that recognise the value of blending local strengths with global trends will be best positioned to succeed. We should focus on fostering innovation while staying true to the roots that make Kerala’s retail landscape so distinctive.”