Retail sector to consolidate in medium term

Retail Sector Dynamics in India

Market Potential and Growth

The Indian retail industry demonstrates immense potential, with a significant opportunity for expansion. Currently, approximately 97% of the country's retail trade remains in the unorganized sector, suggesting substantial room for growth and transformation.

Economic Outlook

  • With the Indian economy projected to grow at an impressive 9% annually
  • Expected steady shift from unorganized to organized retail segment
  • Steady investments anticipated in the subsequent five years

Sector Consolidation

The retail sector is likely to undergo a critical phase of consolidation in the medium term. Key observations include:

Mall Performance
  • Poorly planned and below-average malls will face severe market pressures
  • Small players with exceptional mall design, strategic positioning, and compelling value propositions can outperform larger entities with substandard developments

Market Players

Several prominent companies are actively expanding their retail networks:

  • Reliance Retail
  • Future Group's Big Bazaar
  • Emerging new market entrants

Strategic Insights

  1. Das, Managing Director of Jones Lang LaSalle Meghraj, emphasizes that mall success depends not on size but on:
  • Innovative design
  • Strategic tenant mix
  • Strong value proposition
  • Effective market positioning

Future Outlook

The retail sector shows no signs of deceleration, with continuous investment and expansion expected in the coming years.