Kochi Retail Summit 2025 maps Kerala market

The third edition of the Kochi Retail Summit 2025, hosted by the Retailers Association of India (RAI) in partnership with the Malabar Chamber of Commerce, took place on October 14, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Kochi.

The event had industry leaders discussing new opportunities and trends in Kerala’s dynamic retail industry.

Speaking about the Kochi Retail Summit 2025, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, ““Kerala’s retail landscape is built on trust and community, where shoppers value authenticity as much as price. Organised neighbourhood stores and omnichannel MSMEs are shaping the next phase of growth, while malls and high streets are evolving into social spaces influenced by tourism and local culture. Customers here are familiar with global retail experiences and expect consistency, quality, and fairness from every interaction.”

Bijou Kurien, Chairman of the Retailers Association of India, added, “Retail in Kerala has always reflected the state’s character: aware, informed, and community-driven. The consumer here makes thoughtful choices and values relationships as much as products. As digital and physical retail converge, Kerala has the opportunity to create a model where modern trade and local enterprise thrive together. The next phase will be defined by collaboration, technology adoption, and a deep respect for the values that have long shaped commerce in this region.”

Sharing valuable insights on these panels were some prominent figures from the region’s retail industry, namely Dr. Sanjai George, Group CEO, Boby Chemmanur International Group; Gopa Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, Bhima Jewels; Gopika Menon, Co-Founder, My Designation; Mehaboob MA, Managing Director, Secura Developers Pvt. Ltd.; Muhammed Shafi AT, Founder, Club Sulaimani; Noureen Aysha, Co-Founder, FemiSafe; Shibu Philips, Director – Shopping Malls, Lulu Group India; VKC Razak, Managing Director, VKC Group India; Ankita Kothari, Co-Founder, Sita – The Indian Nari; Bipin Venugopal, CEO, Palooda Dessert Club; Deepak Aswani, Managing Director, Aswani Lachmandas Group; and Dr. Aysha Ruby, CEO, Ruby Vesture Exports & Founder, Reveil.

Deepak Aswani, Managing Director, Aswani Lachmandas Group, said, “Kerala’s retail growth has always been anchored in trust and continuity. Family-led enterprises and long-standing customer relationships remain central even as digital tools and new formats emerge. The future lies in blending legacy with learning, retaining personal connection while embracing efficiency and transparency.”

Gopa Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, Bhima Jewels, added, “Kerala’s retail story is deeply emotional. Purchases are rarely transactional. They mark life events and cultural traditions. For retailers, this means balancing heritage with innovation, ensuring every experience upholds both sentiment and modern expectations of convenience and transparency.”

Shibu Philips, Director – Shopping Malls, Lulu Group India, commented, “Malls in Kerala are no longer just retail destinations; they have become community spaces where shopping, leisure, and culture intersect. As cities expand and aspirations evolve, the focus will shift toward creating environments that offer both economic value and social connection.”

Ankita Kothari, Co-Founder, Sita – The Indian Nari, said, “Kerala’s customers have a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and authenticity. They are open to new ideas but grounded in their sense of identity. For emerging brands, the opportunity lies in celebrating this balance, offering design and purpose that resonate with local pride and global awareness.”

Noureen Aysha, Co-Founder, FemiSafe, expressed, “The Kerala consumer is informed and values-driven. They engage deeply with products that speak to their needs and align with their values, especially in health and personal care. This awareness is pushing brands to move beyond selling products to building trust through education, access, and inclusion.”