Huawei aims to sell 1 mn smartphones in India this year

Imagine walking into a store where the moment you step inside, the ambiance feels like it was designed just for you. The lighting is warm, the scents are subtle but captivating, and every corner seems to tell a story that resonates with your tastes and lifestyle. As you explore, you’re not just browsing products—you’re experiencing the brand in a way that feels personal and engaging. This isn’t your typical shopping trip, it is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

In today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape, such immersive in-store experiences are becoming the norm rather than the exception. Gone are the days when shopping was merely a transactional activity—a means to an end. Today’s consumers are seeking something more meaningful. They crave experiences that align with their personalities, values, and aspirations. Data shows that 91 percent of shoppers report a positive association with brands after attending experiential events, leading to a 74 percent increase in purchasing promoted products. This shift towards experiential retail is revolutionizing how brands engage with customers, forging deeper connections and fostering enhanced brand loyalty through thoughtfully crafted environments that invite exploration and interaction.

Enhanced Brand Loyalty through Immersive Experiences

Retailers have recognized that by engaging the senses and offering memorable interactions, they can significantly enhance brand loyalty. Luxury brands have long understood the power of creating an aspirational environment that immerses customers in their world.

A perfect example of the impact of an immersive in-store experience comes from Payless, a discount shoe retailer that completely transformed how people perceived its brand through a clever and elaborate marketing campaign. Payless set up a fake luxury store called "Palessi," filled with shoes from their regular inventory but marketed as high-end designer footwear. The store's ambiance was curated to exude luxury, with elegant decor, sophisticated lighting, and a red-carpet event that attracted influencers and fashionistas. The attendees, convinced by the environment and the branding, were willing to pay hundreds of dollars for shoes they would have otherwise dismissed as cheap. This campaign effectively demonstrated how a well-executed in-store experience could completely alter consumer perceptions. It wasn't just about the product, it was about the environment and the emotions it evoked, which led people to see value where they hadn't before.

Moreover, the trend towards experiential retail is not confined to luxury brands alone. Even mainstream retailers are embracing this approach, realizing that a well-crafted in-store experience can differentiate them from competitors.

Experience as a Key Influence on Purchase Decisions

The influence of in-store experiences on purchase decisions cannot be overstated. In a world where online shopping offers convenience and endless options, physical stores must provide something more to entice customers. This is where the power of experiential retail comes into play.

Studies have shown that customers who have a positive in-store experience are more likely to make a purchase and spend more than they initially intended. The reason is simple: experiences tap into emotions, and emotions drive decisions. When customers are engaged in an immersive environment that reflects their tastes and aspirations, they are more likely to feel confident in their purchasing choices. The act of shopping becomes enjoyable and fulfilling, rather than just a means to an end.

In the surface décor industry, this connection is even more pronounced. Choosing laminates, or other surface materials is an inherently tactile process. Customers need to touch, feel, and visualize how these materials will transform their spaces. A well-crafted in-store experience can elevate this decision-making process by creating an environment that showcases the full potential of surface décor. When consumers can see how a plywood can turn a simple piece of furniture into a designer statement or how a laminate can add warmth and luxury to a room, they are more likely to appreciate the value and artistry involved. This immersive experience not only enhances customer satisfaction but also reinforces the brand's identity as a provider of high-quality, aesthetically pleasing products that resonate with their lifestyle and aspirations.

Indian Luxury Consumers Value Unique and Personalized Experiences

In India, the luxury market has witnessed a significant evolution as consumers increasingly value unique and personalized experiences over mere products. This shift is driven by a growing segment of affluent consumers who seek to differentiate themselves through their purchases. For these consumers, the experience surrounding the product is just as important, if not more so, than the product itself.

Brands have responded to this trend by offering highly personalized services that cater to the individual preferences of their customers. From custom-tailored products to private shopping appointments, the focus is on making the customer feel special and valued. This level of personalization enhances the customer experience and reinforces the brand’s exclusivity.

Special Events as Opportunities to Showcase Brand Identity

Special events within the retail space have become an increasingly popular way for brands to showcase their identity and craftsmanship. These events, whether they are product launches or interactive workshops, provide a unique platform for brands to engage with their customers on a more personal level.

Furthermore, these events often attract media attention, further amplifying the brand’s reach and influence. In a crowded marketplace, where consumers are bombarded with choices, standing out is crucial. Special events provide the perfect opportunity to do just that, offering a tangible experience that customers can associate with the brand.

The Shift from Transactional to Relational Marketing

The trend towards experiential retail reflects a broader shift in marketing strategies from purely transactional relationships to more relational ones. In the past, the focus was on closing the sale, with little emphasis on building a long-term relationship with the customer. Today, however, brands recognize that the key to sustained success lies in creating meaningful connections with their customers.

Relational marketing is about understanding the customer’s needs, preferences, and values, and aligning the brand’s offerings with them. It’s about engaging customers in a way that feels authentic and personalized, rather than just pushing a product. Experiential retail is the perfect embodiment of this approach, as it allows brands to connect with customers on a deeper level.

By focusing on the overall experience rather than just the transaction, brands can build trust and loyalty over time. Customers are more likely to return to a brand that they feel understands and values them, and they are more likely to recommend it to others. In this way, the in-store experience becomes a powerful tool for driving long-term growth and success.

 

Authored By

Mehul Agarwal, Director & CEO, Dorby

 

 

A recent report by multipl has revealed that Indians are saving up to 20 percent on all lifestyle spends, with travel topping the spendvesting categories with 50 percent consumers aged between 26-34 years.

The report, developed in collaboration with prominent partners such as Blume Ventures, Augmont - Gold for All, DSP Mutual Funds, and EaseMyTrip, meticulously tracked the shifting landscape of Indian spending habits. It observed a departure from traditional banking and credit-centric approaches towards a more balanced spendvesting methodology, fostering positive financial habits for a stable future.

A significant revelation from the report is the identification of travel as the top category for spendvesting enthusiasts, with gadgets and shopping also emerging as substantial areas of interest. These preferences underscore the prevalent lifestyle goals that steer financial decisions among spendvestors.

Notably, the report highlighted that 50 percent of Indian spendvestors belonged to the 26-34 age group, indicating the resonance of this strategy with the younger demographic, particularly Millennials and Gen Z. It addressed the growing concern of credit card defaults and debt accumulation among the youth, emphasizing the necessity for financial discipline.

Illustrating the investment tendencies of younger demographics, the report showcased the preference of Millennials and Gen Z for fintech startups offering tailored investment advice. An eye-opening statistic from the report revealed that an average software engineer earning between Rs 12 lakhs – Rs 14 lakhs annually could save approximately Rs 1.2 lakhs per annum by embracing the spendvesting strategy.

It also recommended a blend of short-term debt/hybrid mutual funds and digital gold investments, seamlessly integrated with daily lifestyle expenditures like travel, gadgets, and insurance. This unique approach sought to simplify modern financial literacy demands while encouraging healthy and rewarding spending habits through gains from investments and contributions from partner brands.

In essence, the Spendvesting Report not only unveiled an avant-garde financial strategy but also underscored the transformative potential it held, particularly for the younger generation, in reshaping their financial habits and securing a more prosperous future.

 

The ethnic wear industry in India provides a vibrant and diverse range of traditional clothing options for people of all ages and backgrounds. With its rich cultural heritage, India has a long-standing tradition of ethnic wear, which has gained popularity not only within the country but also internationally. From sarees and salwar suits to lehengas and kurta pajamas, the industry offers a plethora of choices to cater to different tastes and occasions.

The ethnic wear industry in India is a thriving market, driven by factors such as changing fashion trends, increased disposable income, and a growing preference for traditional attire. It encompasses a wide range of players, including renowned ethnic wear brands in India, local artisans, and small-scale businesses. These brands and designers play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indian traditional clothing, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements.

When exploring the market, you'll come across a variety of options, and to help you make an informed choice, here's a list of the 10 best ethnic wear brands in India that have left a significant mark in the industry.

Ethnic Wear Industry: An Overview

The Ethnic Wear Industry in India provides a vibrant and diverse range of traditional clothing options for people of all ages and backgrounds. With its rich cultural heritage, India has a long-standing tradition of ethnic wear, which has gained popularity not only within the country but also internationally. From sarees and salwar suits to lehengas and kurta pajamas, the industry offers a plethora of choices to cater to different tastes and occasions.

The ethnic wear industry in India is a thriving market, driven by factors such as changing fashion trends, increased disposable income, and a growing preference for traditional attire. It encompasses a wide range of players, including renowned brands, local artisans, and small-scale businesses. These brands and designers play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indian traditional clothing, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements.

Read Here: Ethnic Wear Market Analysis: Detailed

The industry has also witnessed a surge in online retail, with offering a convenient and accessible way to purchase ethnic wear. This has further contributed to the growth of the industry, allowing consumers from across the country and abroad to explore and purchase a wide range of traditional clothing options.

Top 10 Ethnic Wear Brands in India 2024

Here is a list of the best ethnic wear brands in India as of the 2024 update:

1. Biba

 

Biba, a renowned ethnic wear brand in India, offers a wide range of traditional clothing options for women that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design elements. Established in 1988 by Meena Bindra, Biba has become a go-to brand for women seeking elegant and contemporary ethnic wear.

Biba's collection includes a variety of outfits, such as kurtas, salwar suits, lehengas, and sarees, catering to different occasions and preferences. The brand is known for its attention to detail, exquisite prints, and vibrant colors, which add a touch of grace and charm to its garments. Whether it's a casual gathering, a formal event, or a festive celebration, Biba offers a plethora of options to suit every woman's style and taste.

One of the key highlights of Biba's designs is the fusion of traditional and modern elements. The brand seamlessly combines traditional Indian craftsmanship, such as intricate embroidery, hand block printing, and mirror work, with contemporary cuts, silhouettes, and fabrics. This unique blend creates a perfect balance between the timeless appeal of Indian ethnic wear and the latest fashion trends.

Biba has gained immense popularity not only in India but also internationally. With its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Biba has become a trusted name in the ethnic wear industry. Whether it's a classic kurta set or a stylish lehenga, Biba is the brand that offers women an opportunity to embrace their cultural heritage while staying fashionable and chic.

Key Products:

• Salwar Kameez: Biba’s salwar kameez sets are known for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and comfortable fabrics, making them perfect for everyday wear as well as special occasions.
• Kurtis: The brand offers a wide range of kurtis, from casual daily wear to more formal and festive options.
• Lehenga Cholis: Biba’s lehenga cholis are popular for weddings and festive occasions, featuring elaborate embroidery and rich fabrics.
• Mix-and-match sets: Biba’s mix-and-match collections allow customers to create their own unique outfits, offering a variety of tops and bottoms in different styles and colors.
• Anarkalis: The brand’s Anarkali suits are known for their elegant designs and flattering fits, suitable for a variety of body types.

Store Presence:
Biba has over 275 stores across India.

Brand Ambassador:
Kareena Kapoor Khan

Retailer Tips:

• Stock a variety of sizes to cater to a wider customer base.
• Promote the latest collections during festive seasons.
• Use visual merchandising to display coordinated outfits.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Affordability: Fashionable ethnic wear at reasonable prices.
• Trendy Designs: Contemporary and trendy designs that appeal to modern women.
• Availability: Widely available across various retail formats.

2. Libas

 

Established as a prominent player in the ethnic wear industry, Libas offers a diverse range of traditional clothing options for women that exude elegance and sophistication. With a focus on creating garments that showcase the rich cultural heritage of India, Libas has become a go-to brand for women seeking stylish and authentic ethnic wear.

Libas understands the importance of staying true to traditional craftsmanship while also incorporating modern design elements. Their collection includes a wide array of sarees, salwar suits, lehengas, and kurtis, each crafted with intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and luxurious fabrics. Whether it's a festive occasion, a wedding, or a formal event, Libas has something to suit every woman's taste and style.

What sets Libas apart from other brands is their attention to detail and commitment to quality. Each garment is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect fit and impeccable finish. The brand's dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in their emphasis on using only the finest materials and employing skilled artisans to create their stunning designs.

Libas has also made its mark internationally, with a growing presence in countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Their commitment to delivering high-quality ethnic wear has earned them a loyal customer base both in India and abroad.

3. Fab India

 

Fab India is a well-known brand in India that specializes in offering a wide range of high-quality ethnic wear for men, women, and children. With its roots deeply embedded in traditional Indian craftsmanship, Fab India has become synonymous with authentic and sustainable fashion.

Fab India's collection includes a diverse array of clothing options, ranging from sarees, kurtas, and salwar suits for women, to dhotis, kurtas, and sherwanis for men. The brand also caters to children with its range of vibrant and comfortable ethnic wear.

What sets Fab India apart is its commitment to promoting traditional Indian textiles and crafts. The brand works closely with artisans and weavers across the country, ensuring that their skills and artistry are preserved and celebrated. Fab India's products are handcrafted using techniques such as block printing, handloom weaving, and embroidery, which add a unique charm to each garment.

Apart from clothing, Fab India also offers a range of home furnishings and personal care products, all made with the same dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability.

Key Products:

• Kurtas and Kurtis: Fabindia’s kurtas and kurtis are known for their simple yet elegant designs, often featuring traditional block prints, hand embroidery, and natural dyes.
• Sarees: The brand offers a range of sarees in various materials like cotton, silk, and linen, known for their unique patterns and handcrafted techniques.
• Sherwanis: Fabindia’s sherwanis are popular for their classic designs and comfortable fabrics, making them ideal for weddings and formal occasions.
• Jackets: The ethnic jackets are crafted with rich fabrics and detailed embroidery, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
• Accessories: Fabindia also offers a variety of stoles, dupattas, and jewelry, complementing their clothing range.

Store Presence:

Fabindia boasts over 327 stores across India, making it widely accessible.

Brand Ambassador:

Fabindia does not typically use celebrity endorsements, focusing instead on the craftsmanship and quality of its products.

Retailer Tips:

• Highlight the brand's focus on natural fabrics and sustainable practices.
• Create dedicated sections for Fabindia products to showcase their variety and quality.
• Emphasize the unique handcrafting techniques in marketing materials.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Quality: High-quality natural fibers and dyes.
• Variety: Extensive collection for men, women, and children.
• Sustainability: Emphasis on sustainable fashion and supporting rural artisans.

4. Meena Bazaar

 

Continuing the exploration of renowned ethnic wear brands in India, Meena Bazaar stands out as a prominent name in the industry. With a rich history dating back to 1970, Meena Bazaar has become synonymous with exquisite traditional clothing for women. Known for its timeless designs, intricate embroidery, and high-quality fabrics, the brand has successfully carved a niche for itself in the competitive market.

Meena Bazaar offers a wide range of ethnic wear options, including sarees, salwar suits, lehengas, and fusion wear. Each piece is meticulously crafted, blending traditional elements with contemporary styles. The brand's attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship have earned it a loyal customer base across the country.

One of the key factors that sets Meena Bazaar apart is its ability to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether it's a simple, elegant saree for a formal occasion or a heavily embellished lehenga for a wedding, the brand offers something for every occasion. Additionally, Meena Bazaar ensures that its collections are accessible to a wide range of customers by offering products at different price points.

In addition to its physical stores, Meena Bazaar has embraced e-commerce to reach a larger audience. The brand's online presence allows customers to browse and purchase their favorite pieces from the comfort of their homes, further enhancing the brand's accessibility and convenience.

5. Global Desi

 

Global Desi is a well-known Indian ethnic wear brand that offers a diverse range of fashionable clothing for women. Founded in 2007 by Anita Dongre, Global Desi aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India through its trendy and contemporary designs. The brand takes inspiration from the vibrant colors, prints, and motifs of various Indian regions, creating a fusion of traditional and modern styles.

Global Desi's collection includes a wide range of clothing options, including kurtas, tunics, dresses, skirts, and bottoms. The brand is known for its attention to detail, exquisite craftsmanship, and high-quality fabrics. Each garment is carefully crafted to cater to the modern Indian woman who seeks comfort, style, and cultural significance in her wardrobe.

What sets Global Desi apart from other ethnic wear brands is its ability to strike a perfect balance between traditional aesthetics and contemporary fashion. The brand offers a unique blend of Indian and Western elements, making it suitable for various occasions and preferences.

With its extensive presence across India and an online shopping platform, Global Desi has become a go-to brand for women seeking trendy ethnic wear. The brand's commitment to promoting Indian culture and empowering local artisans has garnered it a loyal customer base. Global Desi continues to redefine the fashion landscape with its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability.

Key Products:

• Tunics: Global Desi’s tunics are known for their vibrant prints and comfortable fabrics, perfect for casual wear.
• Dresses: The brand offers a variety of dresses that combine traditional Indian elements with modern styles.
• Kurtis: Global Desi’s kurtis are popular for their trendy designs and vibrant colors, suitable for both casual and festive occasions.
• Palazzos: The brand’s palazzos are known for their comfort and style, often paired with tunics and kurtis.
• Skirts: Global Desi offers a range of skirts that feature traditional Indian prints and patterns, perfect for creating bohemian looks.

Store Presence:
Global Desi has over 146 exclusive brand outlets and numerous multi-brand stores.

Brand Ambassador:
Anushka Sharma

Retailer Tips:

• Showcase the fusion of traditional prints with modern silhouettes.
• Target younger demographics with trendy and vibrant designs.
• Utilize social media to promote new arrivals and collections.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Fusion Fashion: Combines traditional and modern styles.
• Affordability: Trendy ethnic wear at accessible prices.
• Youth Appeal: Popular among young and fashion-forward women.

6. W for Woman

 

W for Woman is a renowned Indian ethnic wear brand that offers a wide range of fashionable clothing options for women. With its commitment to design excellence and quality craftsmanship, W for Woman has become a popular choice among fashion-conscious women across the country.

The brand's collection showcases a perfect blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary designs, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of modern Indian women. From elegant sarees and salwar suits to trendy kurtis and fusion wear, W for Woman offers a plethora of options to elevate your ethnic wardrobe.

What sets W for Woman apart is its attention to detail and focus on creating garments that not only look good but also feel comfortable to wear. The brand uses high-quality fabrics and employs skilled artisans to ensure that every piece is crafted with utmost precision and finesse.

In addition to its exquisite collection, W for Woman also provides a seamless shopping experience through its online and offline stores. With a strong presence in major cities across India, the brand ensures easy accessibility for its customers.

Whether you are attending a festive celebration or a casual get-together, W for Woman has the perfect ethnic wear options to make you look effortlessly stylish and elegant. Embrace the charm of Indian ethnic wear with W for Woman and redefine your fashion statement.

Key Products:

• Kurtas: W for Women’s kurtas are known for their stylish designs and comfortable fabrics, suitable for office wear and casual outings.
• Palazzo Pants: The brand offers a variety of palazzo pants that are perfect for creating trendy ethnic looks.
• Skirts: W for Women’s skirts feature modern designs with traditional elements, ideal for both casual and formal occasions.
• Dresses: The brand’s dresses combine contemporary styles with ethnic prints, making them versatile and fashionable.
• Dupattas: W for Women offers a range of dupattas that complement their kurtas and other ethnic wear, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.

Store Presence:
W for Women has over 400 stores across India.

Brand Ambassador:
No specific celebrity ambassador; focuses on real women.

Retailer Tips:

• Stock a variety of office-appropriate ethnic wear.
• Promote mix-and-match options to encourage multiple purchases.
• Highlight the brand’s commitment to comfort and style.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Comfort: Emphasis on comfortable yet stylish ethnic wear.
• Versatility: Suitable for both office wear and casual outings.
• Contemporary Designs: Modern designs that cater to today’s women.

7. Manyavar

Manyavar is a well-established Indian ethnic wear brand known for its extensive range of traditional clothing options for men. Founded in 1999 by Ravi Modi, Manyavar has become a go-to destination for men looking to add charm and elegance to their wardrobe. The brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship has made it a favorite among Indian consumers.

Manyavar offers a wide variety of ethnic wear options, including sherwanis, kurta-pajamas, Indo-western outfits, and accessories like turbans and stoles. The brand's designs are a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary fashion, catering to the modern Indian man who wants to embrace his cultural roots while staying stylish.

One of Manyavar's key strengths lies in its ability to cater to different occasions. Whether it's a traditional wedding, a festive celebration, or a formal event, Manyavar has something to offer for every occasion. The brand's attention to detail, use of high-quality fabrics, and intricate embroidery sets it apart from its competitors.

Manyavar has also expanded its presence globally, with stores in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Saudi Arabia. This international expansion has allowed the brand to reach a wider audience and showcase the rich heritage of Indian ethnic wear to the world.

Key Products:

• Sherwanis: Manyavar’s sherwanis are highly sought after for weddings, featuring rich fabrics, detailed embroidery, and traditional designs.
• Kurtas: The brand offers a wide range of kurtas, from simple daily wear to more elaborate festive options.
• Indo-Western Outfits: Manyavar’s Indo-Western collections combine traditional Indian designs with modern styles, appealing to a younger audience.
• Nehru Jackets: The brand’s Nehru jackets are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit, available in a variety of fabrics and colors.
• Accessories: Manyavar also offers a range of accessories, including stoles, turbans, and footwear, complementing their clothing collections.

Store Presence:
Manyavar operates over 600 stores, including its women’s line, Mohey.

Brand Ambassador:
Virat Kohli

Retailer Tips:

• Create a dedicated wedding collection section.
• Offer complementary accessories to increase sales.
• Provide excellent customer service to assist with fitting and style advice.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Specialization: Focus on wedding and festive wear.
• Brand Recognition: Strong brand presence and recognition.
• Quality: High-quality fabrics and craftsmanship.

8. Anita Dongre

 

Anita Dongre is a prominent Indian fashion designer renowned for her exquisite ethnic wear creations. With a career spanning over two decades, Dongre has established herself as one of the leading names in the Indian fashion industry. Her designs are a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, making her a favorite among fashion enthusiasts.

Dongre's brand, Anita Dongre, offers a wide range of ethnic wear options for both men and women. From stunning bridal lehengas to elegant sarees and chic Indo-western outfits, her collections cater to the diverse fashion needs of individuals. Her designs are known for their attention to detail, impeccable craftsmanship, and use of high-quality fabrics.

What sets Anita Dongre apart is her commitment to sustainability and empowerment. She believes in promoting traditional Indian crafts and supporting local artisans. Through her brand, she has provided employment opportunities to numerous skilled craftsmen, ensuring the preservation of age-old techniques. Dongre has also been actively involved in various social initiatives, focusing on education, healthcare, and women empowerment.

Anita Dongre's designs have been worn by numerous celebrities and have graced the runways of prestigious fashion events. Her brand has garnered a loyal customer base not only in India but also internationally. With her timeless and elegant creations, Anita Dongre continues to redefine ethnic wear fashion in India and beyond.

Key Products:

• Bridal Wear: Anita Dongre's bridal collections are renowned for their luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and timeless designs.
• Lehengas: The brand offers a variety of lehengas that are perfect for weddings and festive occasions.
• Sarees: Anita Dongre's sarees feature elegant designs and high-quality fabrics, suitable for various events.
• Kurtas and Tunics: The brand offers a range of kurtas and tunics that combine traditional elements with modern styles.
• Accessories: Anita Dongre also offers a variety of accessories, including jewelry and footwear, that complement their clothing collections.

Store Presence:
Anita Dongre has over 100 stores across India and a strong international presence, making her collections widely accessible.

Brand Ambassador:
Anita Dongre typically focuses on relatable women and sustainability rather than using celebrity endorsements.

Retailer Tips:

• Highlight the brand's focus on sustainability and support for traditional artisans.
• Create dedicated sections for Anita Dongre's bridal and festive collections.
• Emphasize the brand's luxurious fabrics and intricate designs in marketing materials.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

Luxury: Known for luxurious and high-end ethnic wear.
Design: Elegant and sophisticated designs.
Sustainability: Emphasis on sustainable fashion and supporting traditional artisans.

9. Ritu Kumar

 

Continuing our exploration of prominent Indian fashion designers, we now turn our attention to Ritu Kumar, a renowned name in the world of ethnic wear. Ritu Kumar is a pioneer in reviving traditional Indian craftsmanship and showcasing it on a global platform. With a career spanning over five decades, she has been instrumental in preserving and promoting India's rich textile heritage.

Ritu Kumar founded her label in 1969 and since then has been a driving force behind the resurgence of Indian handlooms and handcrafted textiles. Her designs seamlessly blend traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics, resulting in exquisite garments that are both timeless and chic.

Known for her meticulous attention to detail and fine craftsmanship, Ritu Kumar has earned a reputation for creating luxurious and elegant ethnic wear. Her collections feature a wide range of ensembles, including sarees, lehengas, salwar suits, and fusion wear, all crafted with the utmost precision and finesse.

Ritu Kumar's designs have been showcased on prestigious platforms like the Lakme Fashion Week and have been worn by celebrities and fashionistas alike. Her label has also gained international recognition, with stores across India and in cities like London, Dubai, and New York.

With her unwavering commitment to preserving traditional Indian textiles and promoting sustainable fashion, Ritu Kumar continues to be a leading figure in the world of ethnic wear.

Key Products:

• Bridal Wear: Ritu Kumar’s bridal collections are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, featuring rich fabrics, intricate embroidery, and traditional designs.
• Evening Gowns: The brand offers a range of evening gowns that blend traditional Indian elements with contemporary styles.
• Sarees: Ritu Kumar’s sarees are known for their luxurious fabrics and detailed designs, making them perfect for weddings and special occasions.
• Lehenga Cholis: The brand’s lehenga cholis are popular for their elaborate embroidery and rich textures, suitable for bridal and festive wear.
• Ethnic Dresses: Ritu Kumar also offers a range of ethnic dresses that are perfect for formal events and celebrations.

Store Presence:
Ritu Kumar has over 93 stores across India.

Brand Ambassador:
Dia Mirza

Retailer Tips:

• Highlight the exclusivity and craftsmanship of the products.
• Focus on bridal and festive collections.
• Create an elegant store ambiance to match the brand's image.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Luxury: Known for luxurious and high-end ethnic wear.
• Design: Intricate and unique designs.
• Heritage: Strong legacy and recognition in the fashion industry.

10. Sabyasachi Mukherjee

 

Sabyasachi Mukherjee, a prominent Indian fashion designer, is renowned for his exquisite creations in ethnic wear. Known for his unmatched craftsmanship and attention to detail, Mukherjee has carved a niche for himself in the world of fashion. His designs are a perfect blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary sensibilities, making him a favorite among Indian celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Mukherjee's designs reflect a deep understanding and appreciation for Indian culture and heritage. He often draws inspiration from vintage textiles, handcrafted techniques, and traditional motifs, infusing them with his unique vision to create stunning ensembles. From opulent bridal lehengas and sarees to elegant anarkalis and sherwanis, his collections showcase the rich diversity of Indian craftsmanship.

What sets Mukherjee apart is his ability to create timeless pieces that transcend trends. His designs have a timeless elegance and sophistication that make them relevant for generations to come. With a focus on quality and craftsmanship, his creations are made with the finest fabrics and intricate embellishments, ensuring that each garment is a work of art.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee's designs have not only made waves in India but have also gained international recognition. His label, Sabyasachi, has become synonymous with luxury and style, attracting clients from around the world. From Bollywood celebrities to international personalities, Mukherjee's designs have graced red carpets and magazine covers, solidifying his position as one of the top ethnic wear brands in India.

Key Products:

• Bridal Wear: Sabyasachi’s bridal collections are renowned for their opulence and attention to detail, featuring luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and traditional motifs.
• Lehengas: The brand offers a variety of lehengas that are perfect for weddings and festive occasions.
• Sarees: Sabyasachi’s sarees are known for their luxurious fabrics and elaborate designs, making them perfect for special events.
• Sherwanis: The brand’s sherwanis are highly sought after for weddings, featuring rich fabrics and detailed embroidery.
• Accessories: Sabyasachi also offers a range of accessories, including jewelry and footwear, that complement their clothing collections.

Store Presence:
Sabyasachi has flagship stores in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, and a strong international presence.

Brand Ambassador:
The brand does not typically use celebrity endorsements, as the designer’s name itself is a significant draw.

Retailer Tips:

• Highlight the brand’s focus on luxurious fabrics and intricate designs.
• Create dedicated sections for Sabyasachi’s bridal and couture collections.
• Emphasize the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship in marketing materials.

Why This Brand Is Popular:

• Luxury: Known for luxurious and high-end ethnic wear.
• Craftsmanship: Exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Recognition: Strong brand recognition and association with high-profile weddings and events.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India's ethnic wear market is a treasure trove of brands that represent the country's rich cultural legacy. Leading ethnic wear brands in India like Biba, Libas, and Fab India, along with esteemed designers such as Anita Dongre and Sabyasachi Mukherjee, offer a wide selection of ethnic clothing. These brands embody India's heritage through their exceptional designs and craftsmanship, making them essential choices for anyone passionate about ethnic fashion. Their collections are a testament to the enduring allure and diversity of Indian ethnic wear.

 

As Happy New Year 2024 approaches, retailers are gearing up to make the most of the festive season and set the stage for a prosperous New Year. With the ever-growing dominance of e-commerce and the continuous evolution of customer expectations, it has become crucial for retailers to strategically prepare for the upcoming celebrations.

In this article, we will explore the various ways retailers can engage their customers, promote their brands, and achieve success in the year ahead. From personalized greetings to innovative brand campaigns, join us as we delve into the strategies that can help retailers thrive during the holiday season and beyond.

Happy New Year 2024: A Transition from 2023 to 2024

 

As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome the dawn of 2024, retailers are gearing up for a seamless transition into the new year, armed with strategies to capitalize on the festive spirit and drive sales to new heights.

The start of the year brings with it a sense of hope and excitement, and retailers are eager to tap into this positive energy to attract customers and boost their profits.

One key strategy that retailers employ during this time is offering festive discounts and special promotions. By providing attractive deals and savings, they entice customers to make purchases and take advantage of the holiday season. Additionally, retailers decorate their stores to create a festive atmosphere, making the shopping experience more enjoyable and memorable for customers.

Engaging with customers on a personal level is also crucial during this time. Retailers send personalized greetings and wishes to their customers, showing appreciation for their support in the past year and building a connection for the future. Hosting festive events like sales, parties, or contests further enhances customer engagement and creates a sense of excitement around the brand.

In today's digital age, leveraging social media is essential for retailers to connect with their audience and promote their offerings. Engaging content, such as holiday-themed posts and videos, can generate buzz and attract new customers. By utilizing various social media platforms, retailers can reach a wider audience and drive traffic to their stores or websites.

As the calendar turns to 2024, retailers are ready to embrace the opportunities the new year brings. With strategic planning, creative marketing campaigns, and a focus on customer satisfaction, they aim to make the most of the festive season and set the stage for a successful year ahead.

Happy New Year 2024: Why Retailers Should Prepare for the Festive Season

 

 

To maximize sales and capitalize on the festive spirit, retailers should proactively prepare for the upcoming New Year festivities. The holiday season represents a golden opportunity for retailers, as consumers are in a generous spending mood, making it the perfect time for gift-giving. In 2023, global holiday season sales are expected to reach $1.4 trillion, indicating the immense potential for retailers to boost their sales and profits.

By attracting customers with festive discounts, decorations, and special offerings, retailers can create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere that entices shoppers to make purchases. Sending personalized greetings and wishes, hosting festive events like sales, parties, or contests, and leveraging social media platforms to connect and promote offerings are effective strategies for engaging customers during this festive season.

Preparing for the New Year festivities also involves planning brand campaigns that resonate with customers. Developing heartwarming video ads, launching social media campaigns that engage the audience, and partnering with charities for fundraising initiatives are ways to create positive associations with the brand and build customer loyalty.

Engaging Your Customers for the New Year 2024

 

To engage your customers for the New Year 2024, it is crucial to:

• Send personalized greetings and wishes.
• Host festive events like sales or parties.
• Leverage social media to connect and promote your offerings.

By doing so, you can:

• Create a memorable experience for your customers.
• Drive sales.
• Build brand loyalty.

Additionally, consider incorporating:

• Happy New Year wishes.
• Celebration ideas.
• Gifting ideas.

into your brand campaigns to further engage your audience.

Happy New Year 2024 Wishes

The New Year presents a valuable opportunity for retailers to engage with their customers and convey their heartfelt wishes for a prosperous and joyful year ahead. Sending personalized greetings and wishes is a simple yet effective way to connect with customers and show appreciation for their support.

1. Cheers to a sparkling New Year filled with overflowing baskets and happy customers! ✨

2. Wishing you a New Year brimming with vibrant sales, innovative ideas, and shelves packed with success! 

3. May the New Year bring you a loyal following, heartwarming customer experiences, and profits that jingle all the way! ️

4. We're raising a toast to a New Year overflowing with gratitude for your support. Here's to many more years of growing together! 

5. Wishing our amazing team a New Year filled with motivation, creativity, and teamwork that takes us all to new heights! 

6. May the New Year bring you fresh perspectives, strategic insights, and marketing campaigns that truly shine! ✨

7. Here's to a New Year where every customer interaction sparks joy, builds trust, and creates lasting memories! ✨

8. Wishing you a New Year powered by technology, streamlined processes, and efficiency that boosts your bottom line! 

9. May the New Year bring you the strength to adapt, the courage to innovate, and the resilience to conquer any challenge! 

10. From our shelves to your homes, we wish you a New Year filled with happiness, prosperity, and everything that makes your heart sing! 

Wishing you a New Year filled with laughter, cheer, and shopping sprees that spark endless joy! May your basket overflow with happiness and your home radiate the warmth of the season. ️ 

11. Cheers to a New Year where every purchase brings a smile, every product ignites passion, and every experience strengthens the bond between us. Thank you for being a part of our retail journey!✨ 

12. May the New Year shower you with prosperity, surprise you with delightful deals, and reward your loyalty with exclusive offers. Here's to a year of fulfilling all your retail dreams! 

13. Wishing you a New Year where every corner you turn unveils a treasure, every aisle whispers a wish, and every checkout counter rings with the melody of a fulfilling shopping experience!️ 

14. From the depths of our shelves to the warmth of your homes, we extend a heartfelt wish for a New Year sparkling with happiness, prosperity, and everything that makes your heart sing! 

Happy New Year 2024 Greetings for Employees

Celebrating Achievements and Looking Forward:

Cheers to our amazing team! Here's to a New Year filled with opportunities to build on your successes, conquer new challenges, and reach new heights together. Happy 2024! ✨

Thank you for your dedication and hard work throughout the year. May the New Year bring you well-deserved rewards, personal growth, and a renewed sense of purpose in your work. Happy New Year!

We're incredibly proud of everything we accomplished as a team in 2023. Let's carry that momentum into the New Year and make 2024 even better! Happy New Year, everyone!

Appreciation and Motivation:

Your talent and passion are what make this company thrive. Thank you for being such a valuable part of our team. Wishing you a New Year filled with joy, fulfillment, and endless possibilities. Happy 2024!

May the New Year bring you the motivation to take risks, embrace new ideas, and never stop learning. We believe in your potential, and we can't wait to see what you achieve in 2024!

Here's to a New Year where your creativity sparks like fireworks, your teamwork builds bridges, and your individual brilliance shines as bright as the stars. Happy New Year, team! ✨

Focus on Well-being and Balance:

Beyond the successes and challenges, remember to prioritize your well-being in the New Year. Take time for yourself, recharge, and come back feeling refreshed and ready to conquer anything. Happy and healthy 2024! ‍♀️

May the New Year bring you a perfect balance between work and personal life. Find time for the things you love and don't forget to celebrate your wins both big and small. Happy and fulfilling 2024!

We value you not just for your work, but also for who you are as individuals. May the New Year bring you happiness, good health, and all the things that make your heart sing. Happy 2024, from your friends at work!

Humorous and Light-hearted:

Here's to a New Year with more coffee breaks than deadlines, more laughter than meetings, and enough success to make those late nights worth it! Happy 2024, you crazy bunch! ☕️

Forget the resolutions, let's just make the New Year awesome. Deal? Happy 2024, team!

May the New Year bring you more promotions than emails, more bonuses than spreadsheets, and more office parties than you can handle! Happy 2024, you deserve it!

Personalization and Inclusivity:

To each and every one of you, thank you for making this company such a special place to be. May the New Year bring you all the happiness, love, and success you deserve. Happy 2024!

We celebrate the diversity and unique talents that make our team thrive. May the New Year be filled with opportunities for everyone to shine and contribute to our shared success. Happy 2024, to everyone in our amazing team!

Whatever your goals and dreams are for the New Year, know that we're here to support you every step of the way. Cheers to a bright and successful 2024 together!

Happy New Year 2024 Celebration Ideas for Retailers

As retailers prepare to celebrate the New Year in 2024, they have the opportunity to engage their customers and create a memorable experience with exciting celebration ideas that go beyond traditional sales and promotions.

In-Store Festivities:

• Transform your store into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights and festive decorations.
• Live music and entertainment: Hire local musicians, carolers, or even magicians to create a lively atmosphere and entertain shoppers.
• Interactive activities: Set up photo booths, prize wheels, or fun games to keep customers engaged and create lasting memories.
• Holiday treats and drinks: Offer warm beverages, праздничные печенья, or small bites to create a welcoming and festive ambiance.
• New Year's Eve countdown: Host a special countdown at midnight with champagne toasts, party favors, and festive music.
• New Year's Eve sales: Offer exclusive discounts, праздничные пакеты, or early access to sale items to entice customers.
• Gift with purchase: Reward shoppers with a free gift with every purchase above a certain amount.
• Resolution-themed promotions: Create promotions targeted at popular New Year's resolutions, like fitness wear for "get healthy" goals or stylish accessories for "dress up" resolutions.
• Gift card bundles: Offer special deals on gift card bundles to make holiday shopping easier for customers.
• Charity partnerships: Partner with a local charity and donate a portion of your proceeds during the holiday season.
• New Year's Eve themed contests and giveaways: Run festive contests on social media platforms, offering prizes like gift baskets, shopping sprees, or free experiences.
• Run a "New Year's Resolutions" campaign: Encourage customers to share their New Year's resolutions and how your products can help them achieve them.

Additionally, retailers can offer special New Year-themed workshops or classes, such as cooking demonstrations or DIY projects, to attract customers and provide them with valuable experiences.

Happy New Year 2024! Gifting Ideas

Engage your customers for the New Year 2024 by offering a curated selection of gifting ideas that cater to their diverse needs and preferences. Gifting is an essential part of the New Year celebrations, and providing unique and thoughtful gifts will not only enhance customer satisfaction but also drive sales for your retail business.

For the Experience Seeker:

• Weekend getaway trip: Send them on a mini-adventure to start the year fresh.
• Tickets to a show or concert: Let them ring in the new year with some entertainment.
• Cooking class or workshop: Help them learn a new skill they've been wanting to try.
• Spa day or massage: Offer a chance to unwind and recharge for the year ahead.
• Hot air balloon ride or other unique experience: Give them a memory they'll never forget.

For the Homebody:

• Cozy loungewear or robes: Encourage them to embrace cozy nights in.
• Luxury scented candles or diffuser: Create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere.
• Subscription box for their favorite hobby or interest: Fuel their passions and give them something to look forward to each month.
• Beautiful houseplant or terrarium: Add a touch of nature and life to their space.
• Personalized photo book or framed print: Celebrate special memories together.

For the Foodie:

• Gourmet food basket or curated selection of snacks: Fill their pantry with delicious goodies.
• Subscription to a coffee or tea of the month club: Let them explore new flavors and start their day off right.
• High-quality cookware or bakeware: Inspire their culinary creativity.
• Cooking class or online cooking course: Help them learn new recipes and techniques.
• Homemade treats or baked goods: Put your love into a personalized gift from the kitchen.

For the Techie:

• Noise-canceling headphones or wireless earbuds: Help them out with some peace and quiet in a busy world.
• Smart speaker or home assistant: Make their life easier and more convenient.
• Portable projector for movie nights: Give them the gift of a home theater experience.
• Subscription to a streaming service or e-reader: Keep them entertained for hours on end.
• Tech gadget or accessory they've been wanting: Upgrade their life with something they'll use and appreciate.

Consider offering gift cards, which provide a safe and convenient option for recipients to choose their preferred products. Additionally, festive decorations and merchandise can add a touch of joy and celebration to any home. Stylish clothing and accessories, as well as the latest gadgets and electronics, are also popular choices for gift-givers.

Happy New Year 2024: Brand Campaigns for Retailers

 

Retailers can kick off the new year with impactful brand campaigns to engage their audience and drive sales. As the holiday season winds down, it is crucial for retailers to maintain momentum and capture the attention of consumers. Happy New Year 2024 presents an opportunity to create brand campaigns that resonate with customers and leave a lasting impression.

Here are some options to spark your creativity:

Themes:

• New Year, New You: Tap into the common desire for self-improvement by offering promotions on fitness gear, healthy recipes, or products that support personal growth.
• Celebrate Fresh Starts: Highlight the "fresh start" feeling of the New Year with clean, bright visuals and promotions on organizational tools, home decor, or lifestyle upgrades.
• Spark New Adventures: Encourage exploration and new experiences with travel deals, outdoor gear bundles, or adventure-themed contests.
• Ring in the Future: Embrace technology and innovation with futuristic product promotions, interactive AR/VR experiences, or a futuristic New Year's Eve event in your store.

Campaigns:

• Resolution Roulette: Create a fun online game where customers spin a virtual roulette wheel to land on personalized New Year's resolutions and matching product recommendations.
• Charity Countdown: Partner with a local charity and run a countdown campaign where a portion of sales every day leading up to New Year's goes to the chosen cause.
• Future Vision Board Creation: Host a workshop or online competition where customers create vision boards for their ideal 2024 using products from your store.
• "24 in 2024" Challenge: Encourage customers to try 24 new things in 2024 (one per week) and offer small discounts or rewards for each completed challenge.
• Time Capsule Contest: Have customers create a time capsule filled with mementos and products representing their hopes and dreams for 2024, with the winner receiving a special prize.

Additional Tips:

• Personalize your campaign to your target audience: Consider their demographics, interests, and typical New Year's resolutions.
• Utilize multiple channels: Promote your campaign through social media, email marketing, in-store displays, and online advertising.
• Create a sense of urgency and excitement: Use countdown timers, limited-time offers, and interactive elements to keep customers engaged.
• Make it fun and festive: Use humor, bright colors, and celebratory images to create a positive and memorable experience.

Another impactful approach is to partner with a charity for a fundraising initiative. This not only demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility but also attracts customers who are passionate about supporting causes. Collaborate with a relevant charity and create a campaign that encourages customers to make a purchase where a percentage of the proceeds will be donated.

Happy New Year 2024: Resolutions for Retailers

 

To ensure a successful year ahead, retailers can set resolutions to enhance their customer service, expand their product range, drive online sales, implement cost-saving measures, and give back to the community.

Here are 10 best Happy New year 2024 resolutions for retailers to consider for 2024, focusing on growth, sustainability, and customer experience:

Growth:

• Master omnichannel retail: Seamlessly integrate online and offline experiences, offering convenient click-and-collect, personalized online recommendations, and engaging in-store tech like AR/VR displays.
• Embrace data-driven decisions: Leverage customer data analytics to optimize inventory, personalize marketing, and target promotional campaigns effectively.
• Expand customer base: Implement targeted social media campaigns, loyalty programs, and referral incentives to attract new customers and build meaningful relationships.

Sustainability:

• Reduce environmental impact: Implement eco-friendly packaging, source sustainable materials, and promote energy-efficient practices to minimize your carbon footprint.
• Offer ethical products: Partner with suppliers committed to fair labor practices and responsible sourcing to ensure transparent and ethical supply chains.
• Empower sustainable choices: Make eco-friendly products easily accessible, highlight their benefits, and offer incentives for sustainable purchases.

Customer Experience:

• Personalize the journey: Utilize data and AI to recommend relevant products, offer tailored promotions, and provide personalized customer service at every touchpoint.
• Build a community: Foster engagement through social media platforms, host regular events, and create online forums or groups where customers can connect and share experiences.
• Prioritize convenience: Offer flexible delivery options, click-and-collect, easy returns, and seamless payment methods to provide a stress-free shopping experience.
• Become a trusted advisor: Position your brand as a source of valuable information and expertise, offering helpful content, educational workshops, and personalized styling advice.

The Happy New Year 2024 festivities present retailers with a golden opportunity to engage their customers, promote their brands, and achieve success in the year ahead. By implementing personalized greetings, hosting festive events, and launching social media campaigns, retailers can create a memorable and joyful experience for their customers.

Additionally, incorporating charitable initiatives not only promotes goodwill but also enhances brand reputation. By strategically preparing for the festive season, retailers can set the stage for a prosperous and joyful New Year.

 

You may be thinking that advertising during the busy holiday season, particularly on Boxing Day 2023, is already a given for retailers. However, with the fierce competition and abundance of deals available, it's crucial to strategize your brand's advertising efforts to stand out and drive more sales.

In this discussion, we will explore effective ways for retailers to advertise their brands on Boxing Day, from crafting compelling promotions and offers to leveraging the power of social media, enhancing in-store visual merchandising, and utilizing email marketing.

By implementing these strategies, you can ensure that your brand remains at the forefront of customers' minds and maximize your sales potential.

So, let's dive into the world of Boxing Day advertising and discover how you can take your brand to new heights.

Boxing Day 2023: An Overview

Boxing Day 2023 falls on Tuesday, December 26th, the day after Christmas. It's a public holiday celebrated in several countries, primarily in the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.

Origins:

The exact origins of Boxing Day are unclear, but there are two main theories:

• Charitable giving: Traditionally, Boxing Day was a day for wealthy families to give "Christmas boxes" filled with gifts and leftovers to their servants and tradespeople.
• Fox hunting: Another theory suggests that Boxing Day was the day after the Christmas hunt, when huntsmen would give the foxes' tails and other animal parts to their servants.

Modern Traditions:

Today, Boxing Day is primarily a secular holiday focused on:

• Shopping: Boxing Day is known for its massive post-Christmas sales, with many stores offering deep discounts on a wide range of items.
• Sports: In some countries, Boxing Day is a major sporting event day. For example, in the UK, there are traditionally big football (soccer) matches played on Boxing Day.
• Relaxation: For many people, Boxing Day is simply a day to relax and spend time with family and friends after the excitement of Christmas.

Celebrations Around the World:

Boxing Day is celebrated in different ways around the world, with each country having its own unique traditions. Here are a few examples:

• United Kingdom: In the UK, Boxing Day is a popular day for going to the pub or watching sporting events.
• Canada: In Canada, Boxing Day is also known as "Second Christmas" and is often a day for family gatherings and gift-giving.
• New Zealand: In New Zealand, Boxing Day is a popular day for going to the beach or having a picnic.
• Australia: In Australia, Boxing Day is a popular day for cricket matches, with the Boxing Day Test match being a major sporting event.

So, whether you're planning to hit the shops, catch a game, or simply relax with loved ones, Boxing Day 2023 is a day to enjoy the festive season and celebrate the spirit of giving.

Understanding the Importance of Boxing Day 2023 Advertising

If you want to maximize your sales on Boxing Day 2023, it's crucial to understand the importance of advertising your brand.

Boxing Day 2023 is a highly competitive retail event, and without effective advertising, your brand may get lost among the countless promotions and discounts offered by other retailers.

Advertising your brand helps to create awareness and generate interest among potential customers, making them more likely to choose your products or services over your competitors.

It allows you to highlight your unique selling points and communicate the value that your brand offers.

By strategically promoting your brand through various channels such as social media, email marketing, and traditional advertising, you can capture the attention of your target audience and drive more traffic to your store or website.

Ultimately, effective advertising on Boxing Day 2023 can lead to increased sales and help you stand out in a crowded market.

Crafting Compelling Promotions and Offers

To effectively promote your brand on Boxing Day, you need to craft compelling promotions and offers that entice customers to choose your products or services over your competitors'.

This can be achieved by creating exclusive discounts or limited-time offers that create a sense of urgency and FOMO (fear of missing out) among consumers. Consider offering bundle deals or buy-one-get-one-free promotions to incentivize customers to make a purchase.

Additionally, you can provide additional value by including free gifts or samples with every purchase. It's important to clearly communicate these promotions through various marketing channels, such as social media, email marketing, and in-store signage.

Leveraging Social Media for Maximum Reach

Use social media to maximize your brand's reach and engagement on Boxing Day.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn provide an excellent opportunity to connect with your target audience and promote your products or services effectively.

Start by creating engaging and visually appealing content that captures the attention of your followers. Use eye-catching images, videos, and graphics to showcase your Boxing Day promotions and offers.

Leverage popular hashtags related to Boxing Day and your industry to increase your visibility and reach a wider audience.

Engage with your followers by responding to comments, messages, and mentions promptly.

Encourage user-generated content by running contests or giveaways, which won't only increase engagement but also generate buzz around your brand.

Use analytics tools to track your social media performance and make data-driven decisions to optimize your strategies.

Enhancing In-Store Visual Merchandising

Now let's explore how to enhance your in-store visual merchandising to create an immersive and captivating shopping experience for your customers on Boxing Day.

One effective way to enhance your in-store visual merchandising is by creating eye-catching displays. Use strategic placement of products and props to draw attention and create a visually appealing environment.

Another important aspect of enhancing in-store visual merchandising is ensuring that your displays are well-lit. Proper lighting can highlight your products and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Additionally, consider using signage and banners to promote special offers and discounts. This won't only attract customers but also guide them towards the desired areas of your store.

Utilizing Email Marketing to Drive Sales

Maximize your sales potential by leveraging the power of email marketing.

Email marketing is a highly effective strategy that allows you to reach out to your customers directly and drive sales. By sending personalized and targeted emails, you can showcase your products, promotions, and exclusive offers.

Start by building a strong email list of interested customers who've opted-in to receive your updates. Segment your list based on demographics, preferences, and purchase history to ensure that your emails are relevant and engaging.

Craft compelling subject lines and use eye-catching visuals to capture your recipients' attention. Include clear call-to-action buttons that direct customers to your website or online store.

Monitor and analyze your email campaign's performance to make data-driven decisions and optimize your strategies.

With email marketing, you can effectively communicate with your customers and drive sales during the Boxing Day season.

Frequently Asked Questions on Boxing Day 2023

What Is the History and Origin of Boxing Day 2023?

Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, has a rich history and origin. It started in the UK and was traditionally a day when servants and tradespeople received gifts from their employers.

This holiday has its roots in the practice of giving alms to the poor during the Christmas season. It was common for churches to collect donations in boxes, which were then opened and distributed on the day after Christmas.

Over time, Boxing Day became more commercialized and evolved into a day of shopping and sales. Many people take advantage of the holiday sales and discounts to buy items they may have wanted but did not receive as gifts on Christmas Day.

In addition to shopping, Boxing Day is also a time for sports and outdoor activities. It is a popular day for football matches, horse racing events, and even fox hunting in some parts of the UK.

How Can Retailers Effectively Track the Success of Their Boxing Day Advertising Campaigns?

To effectively track the success of your boxing day advertising campaigns, utilize analytics tools to monitor website traffic and conversions.

Implement unique promo codes or tracking links to measure the impact of different marketing channels.

Are There Any Legal Regulations or Guidelines That Retailers Should Be Aware of When Advertising on Boxing Day?

When advertising on Boxing Day, you should be aware of legal regulations and guidelines. These ensure fair practices and protect consumers. Stay informed about advertising laws to avoid any penalties or consequences for your brand.

What Are Some Creative and Unique Ways Retailers Can Grab Customers' Attention and Stand Out From Competitors on Boxing Day?

Want to make a splash on Boxing Day?

Get creative!

Try unique strategies to grab customers' attention and stand out from competitors.

Think outside the box and make your brand shine!

How Can Retailers Ensure a Seamless and Enjoyable Shopping Experience for Customers Both In-Store and Online on Boxing Day?

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience on Boxing Day, retailers should focus on:

• Providing excellent customer service
• Optimizing their website for easy navigation
• Offering attractive deals and promotions both in-store and online.

Conclusion

So, if you want to make the most of Boxing Day sales, it's crucial to focus on effective advertising strategies.

Craft compelling promotions and offers, leverage social media for maximum reach, enhance in-store visual merchandising, and utilize email marketing to drive sales.

By implementing these tactics, retailers can increase brand awareness, attract more customers, and ultimately boost sales on Boxing Day.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to maximize your profits and make a lasting impact on your target audience.

 

India's vodka market is flourishing, with brands like Magic Moments, Smirnoff, and Grey Goose leading the charge. These labels have carved out a niche by offering premium quality and a variety of flavors that appeal to the Indian palate. In this guide, we will explore some of the best vodka brands in India, showcasing their unique characteristics and why they resonate with consumers. Whether you're a vodka aficionado or new to the spirit, this article will provide valuable insights into the top choices available across the country.

Check More : 10 Best Vodka Brands in India Priced Under ₹1500

Check More : The Rise in the Consumption of Craft Liquor & Myths about Alcohol

Best Vodka Brands in India:

Here is a list of the best vodka brands in India, mentioning their key features, alcohol by volume percentage and composition details with available variants:

1. Magic Moments: Premium Vodka Brand

Magic Moments Vodka, crafted by Radico Khaitan, remains a favorite in India's growing spirits market with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 37.5%. This standard strength makes it ideal for a wide array of drinks, from simple mixes to elaborate cocktails.

Variations and Consistent ABV

Magic Moments offers its vodka in several enticing flavors, all at 37.5% ABV, ensuring consistency in quality and taste:

1. Classic Plain: The pure, smooth original flavor.
2. Green Apple: Captures the crisp essence of green apples.
3. Orange: Bursting with fresh, citrusy orange flavor.
4. Raspberry: Sweet and slightly tart, mimicking the taste of fresh raspberries.
5. Lemon: Sharp and refreshing, with a clean lemon zing.
6. Chocolate: Rich and luxurious, blending the robust taste of chocolate.

Origin and Production

Launched in 2006 by Radico Khaitan, a pioneer in India's liquor industry with a legacy spanning over seventy years, Magic Moments is distilled in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh. This location is the heartland of Radico Khaitan’s operations, where they employ advanced distillation and filtration techniques to produce their vodka.

Interesting Facts and Market Impact

Here are some easy-to-digest facts about Magic Moments Vodka:

• Award-Winning: Magic Moments has won multiple international awards for quality, including accolades from the Monde Selection.
• Global Reach: While popular in India, Magic Moments is also sold in several other countries, making it a recognized global brand.
• Leading the Flavored Vodka Trend: In India, Magic Moments is at the forefront of the flavored vodka trend, offering a range of options that attract a diverse audience.
• Crafted from Grains: Made from the finest grains, it is naturally gluten-free, catering to those with dietary restrictions.

2. White Mischief Vodka

White Mischief Vodka stands as one of the leading brands in India's vodka market, distinguished by its energetic brand persona and widespread appeal among younger consumers. This brand is a key product of United Spirits Ltd., which is part of the global spirits company Diageo.

Production Quality and ABV
White Mischief is meticulously triple-distilled to achieve a high level of purity and smoothness. This distillation process ensures a refined taste with fewer impurities, making it ideal for a variety of cocktails. It features an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 42.8%, slightly higher than many other domestic vodkas, delivering a robust experience.

Flavor Range
While primarily known for its classic, unflavored vodka, White Mischief occasionally expands its offerings to include flavored vodkas, catering to a trendier, flavor-seeking demographic. These flavors aim to provide a fun twist on traditional vodka and include options such as:

• Green Apple: A fresh and fruity choice for those who enjoy a subtle sweetness.
• Orange: Offers a citrusy zest, perfect for vibrant cocktails.

Origin and Brand Image
Launched by United Spirits, a subsidiary of Diageo, White Mischief was strategically positioned to capture the youthful segment of the alcohol market in India. Its branding revolves around fun, playfulness, and a carefree lifestyle, often reflected through its marketing campaigns and sponsorships of high-energy events like music festivals and sports events, including partnerships with the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Interesting Facts

• Market Influence: White Mischief holds a substantial market share in the vodka category in India, especially popular among young adults.
• Strategic Sponsorships: The brand's association with the IPL and other youthful events enhances its image as the go-to vodka for celebrations and social gatherings.
• Affordability: It is competitively priced to attract its target demographic, making premium quality vodka accessible to a wider audience.

Consumption and Popularity

White Mischief's popularity is particularly strong in urban areas and among the party-going crowd. It is frequently the vodka of choice at nightclubs, parties, and small gatherings, enjoyed either neat, on the rocks, or as a base in various cocktails. Its ability to blend well with multiple mixers makes it a versatile choice for any occasion.

3. Romanov Vodka

Romanov Vodka is a well-regarded brand in India, produced by United Spirits Ltd., a subsidiary of Diageo. Named after the famous Russian dynasty, Romanov Vodka combines tradition and quality to offer a satisfying drinking experience.

Production and ABV
Romanov Vodka is known for its purity and smooth taste, achieved through meticulous distillation processes. It has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 42.8%, providing a strong yet enjoyable drink, perfect for various occasions.

Variations
Romanov Vodka offers several variations to cater to different tastes and preferences, each with an ABV of 42.8%:

• Romanov Premium: The classic, unflavored vodka that boasts a clean and crisp profile, ideal for those who appreciate vodka in its purest form.
• Romanov Red: Infused with a subtle hint of raspberry, this variation adds a fruity twist to the traditional vodka.
• Romanov Lemon: This version combines the refreshing taste of lemon with the smoothness of vodka, making it perfect for cocktails or enjoying on the rocks.
• Romanov Orange: Offers a zesty and citrusy flavor, providing a refreshing alternative to the standard vodka.

Origin and Branding
Launched by United Spirits, Romanov Vodka draws inspiration from the rich history and elegance associated with the Romanov dynasty. The brand appeals to consumers who value quality and tradition in their spirits, positioning itself as a premium yet accessible option in the Indian market.

Interesting Facts

Market Presence: Romanov Vodka enjoys a significant market share in India, known for its quality and affordability.
Branding Strategy: The brand emphasizes its historical roots and traditional distillation methods, resonating with consumers who appreciate a classic vodka experience.

Consumer Base and Usage

Romanov Vodka is popular among a wide range of consumers, from young adults to seasoned vodka enthusiasts. It is a common choice at parties and social gatherings, enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base in various cocktails.

4. Goa 1535 Vodka

Goa 1535 Vodka is a distinctive vodka brand that draws inspiration from the rich history and vibrant culture of Goa, a popular tourist destination in India. This vodka is known for its premium quality and unique flavors, making it a favorite among vodka enthusiasts.

Production and ABV

Goa 1535 Vodka is crafted using high-quality grains and distilled multiple times to ensure a smooth and pure taste. The alcohol by volume (ABV) of Goa 1535 Vodka is typically 42.8%, which is standard for premium vodkas in India. This high ABV contributes to its robust and clean flavor profile.

Variations
Goa 1535 Vodka offers a variety of flavors to cater to different preferences, all maintaining an ABV of 42.8%:

1. Goa 1535 Classic: The original, unflavored vodka known for its crisp and smooth taste, ideal for sipping neat or in cocktails.
2. Goa 1535 Lemon Zest: Infused with the refreshing taste of lemon, this variation is perfect for those who enjoy a citrusy twist in their drinks.
3. Goa 1535 Green Apple: Offers a fruity and tangy flavor, providing a unique alternative to traditional vodka.
4. Goa 1535 Orange Burst: A zesty and vibrant option, combining the classic vodka taste with a burst of orange flavor.

Origin and Branding

Goa 1535 Vodka is produced with a nod to the history of Goa, specifically the year 1535 when the region saw significant Portuguese influence. This historical connection is reflected in the brand's identity and marketing, which emphasize a blend of tradition and contemporary style.

Interesting Facts

• Cultural Influence: The brand draws heavily on the cultural and historical heritage of Goa, which is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere.
• Premium Positioning: Goa 1535 Vodka is marketed as a premium brand, appealing to consumers who appreciate high-quality spirits.
• Unique Flavors: The diverse range of flavors sets Goa 1535 apart from other vodkas, offering unique taste experiences for different palates.
• Consumer Base and Usage
• Goa 1535 Vodka is popular among both locals and tourists in Goa, as well as vodka enthusiasts across India. It is often enjoyed in various social settings, from beach parties to elegant gatherings. The versatility of its flavors makes it suitable for a wide range of cocktails, as well as being enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

5. Eristoff Vodka

Eristoff Vodka is a globally recognized brand known for its high quality and smooth taste. Originating from Georgia, this vodka has a rich heritage and is produced using traditional methods that date back centuries. It is now part of the Bacardi portfolio, one of the largest spirits companies in the world.

Production and ABV
Eristoff Vodka is triple-distilled for purity and filtered through charcoal, ensuring a clean, smooth taste. The standard alcohol by volume (ABV) for Eristoff Vodka is 42.8%, which is typical for premium vodkas, providing a robust yet smooth drinking experience.

Variations
Eristoff Vodka offers several variations to cater to different tastes and preferences, each maintaining an ABV of 42.8%:

• Eristoff Original: The classic, unflavored vodka known for its pure and smooth taste, ideal for drinking neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
• Eristoff Red: Infused with the flavor of sloe berries, this variation offers a sweet and slightly tart taste, making it a popular choice for unique cocktails.
• Eristoff Black: This version features a blend of wild berries, providing a rich and fruity flavor that is both sweet and complex.
• Eristoff Lime: A refreshing option with a zesty lime flavor, perfect for mixing into a variety of cocktails for a citrusy twist.

Origin and Branding
Eristoff Vodka traces its roots back to 1806 in Georgia, a region with a long-standing tradition of producing high-quality spirits. The brand's logo features a wolf howling at a crescent moon, symbolizing its Georgian heritage and the rugged wilderness of the Caucasus Mountains. The brand's slogan, "From the Land of the Wolf," reflects this connection to its origins.

Interesting Facts

• Rich Heritage: Eristoff Vodka has over 200 years of history, making it one of the oldest vodka brands with a rich legacy of traditional craftsmanship.
• Global Reach: Eristoff is enjoyed by vodka enthusiasts around the world, known for its consistent quality and distinctive branding.
• Award-Winning: The brand has received numerous awards for its quality and taste, further solidifying its reputation as a premium vodka.

Consumer Base and Usage

Eristoff Vodka is favored by a wide range of consumers, from young adults looking for a reliable and smooth vodka to experienced drinkers who appreciate its historical significance and quality. It is often used in a variety of cocktails, from classic martinis to more inventive mixed drinks, thanks to its versatile and pure flavor profile.

6. Punjab Club Whisky Vodka: A Premium Blend

When it comes to alcoholic beverages, the Indian market is rich with options. One brand that stands out is Punjab Club, known for its premium whisky and vodka. This article delves into the unique qualities of Punjab Club Whisky Vodka, exploring why it's becoming a favorite among enthusiasts.

The Heritage of Punjab Club
Punjab Club is a brand that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Punjab, combining traditional distillation methods with modern techniques. This blend ensures a product that is both high in quality and rich in flavor.

What Makes Punjab Club Whisky Unique?
1. Rich Flavors: Punjab Club Whisky is known for its rich and smooth flavors, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a deep, satisfying taste.

2. Quality Ingredients: The brand uses the finest grains and purest water, ensuring that each bottle meets high standards of quality.

3. Distillation Process: Punjab Club employs a meticulous distillation process, which includes aging in oak barrels. This process imparts a unique character to the whisky, enhancing its smoothness and complexity.

The Appeal of Punjab Club Vodka

1. Purity and Smoothness: Punjab Club Vodka is distilled multiple times, ensuring exceptional purity and smoothness. It's perfect for cocktails or enjoyed straight.

2. Versatility: This vodka is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for a variety of cocktails. Its clean taste complements mixers well, allowing the flavors to blend seamlessly.

3. Premium Packaging: The packaging of Punjab Club Vodka reflects its premium status. The elegant design adds a touch of sophistication, making it an ideal gift or a stylish addition to any home bar.

How to Enjoy Punjab Club Whisky and Vodka

1. Whisky Cocktails:

• Classic Old Fashioned: Mix Punjab Club Whisky with a sugar cube, bitters, and a twist of orange peel.
• Whisky Sour: Combine whisky with lemon juice, sugar syrup, and a dash of egg white for a frothy finish.

2. Vodka Cocktails:

• Vodka Martini: A classic choice that highlights the purity of Punjab Club Vodka. Mix with dry vermouth and garnish with an olive or lemon twist.
• Cosmopolitan: A refreshing mix of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice.

7. Zing Vodka

Zing Vodka, renowned for its distinct flavor profile and smooth texture, is a prominent player in the Indian vodka market, offering a range of popular variants with an alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage of 42.8%. This premium vodka brand is known for its exceptional quality and has gained a strong following among vodka enthusiasts.

Here are four reasons why Zing Vodka continues to captivate the Indian market:

1. Superior Taste: Zing Vodka is celebrated for its unparalleled taste, which is the result of using high-quality ingredients and a meticulous distillation process.

2. Versatile Variants: The brand offers a diverse range of variants, such as Classic, Raspberry, Apple, and Mango, catering to a wide spectrum of flavor preferences.

3. Smooth Finish: Zing Vodka is revered for its velvety smoothness, making it a delightful choice for sipping neat or crafting exquisite cocktails.

4. Premium Experience: From its elegant packaging to the rich sensory experience it offers, Zing Vodka embodies luxury and sophistication, elevating the drinking experience for consumers.

Zing Vodka's commitment to excellence and its ability to consistently deliver a refined drinking experience have solidified its position as a leading choice in the Indian vodka landscape.

Zing Vodka's variants with Alcohol by Volume Percentage:

• Classic (42.8%)
• Raspberry (42.8%)
• Apple (42.8%)
• Mango (42.8%)

8. 8PM Premium Vodka: The Choice of the Refined Palate

In the world of premium spirits, 8PM Premium Vodka has carved a niche for itself. Known for its exceptional quality and smoothness, 8PM Premium Vodka offers a drinking experience that is both refined and versatile. This article explores what makes 8PM Premium Vodka a standout choice among vodka enthusiasts.

The Essence of 8PM Premium Vodka
8PM Premium Vodka is part of the well-established 8PM brand, which has long been synonymous with quality and excellence. The brand's dedication to using superior ingredients and cutting-edge distillation techniques ensures that every bottle of 8PM Premium Vodka meets the highest standards.

Key Features of 8PM Premium Vodka

1. Superior Quality Ingredients, - 8PM Premium Vodka is made from the finest grains and distilled water, ensuring a pure and clean taste. The quality of the ingredients is evident in the vodka's smooth and crisp finish.

2. Advanced Distillation Process - The vodka undergoes multiple distillation processes, which helps remove impurities and enhances its smoothness. This meticulous process results in a vodka that is exceptionally pure and enjoyable.

3. Smooth and Versatile: 8PM Premium Vodka is known for its smoothness, making it perfect for sipping straight or mixing in cocktails. Its versatility allows it to blend seamlessly with various mixers, making it a favorite among bartenders and mixologists.

4. Alcohol By Volume (ABV) - 8PM Premium Vodka has an ABV of 42.8%, which is a standard for premium vodkas. This alcohol content ensures a robust flavor while maintaining a smooth drinking experience.

5. Elegant PackagingThe premium nature of 8PM Vodka is reflected in its packaging. The sleek and stylish bottle design adds a touch of sophistication, making it an excellent choice for gifting or for adding to a well-curated home bar.

Variations of 8PM Premium Vodka

1. 8PM Classic Vodka

• ABV: 42.8%
• Description: The original and most popular variant, known for its clean taste and smooth finish.

2. 8PM Citrus Vodka

• ABV: 40%
• Description: Infused with natural citrus flavors, this variant offers a refreshing twist, perfect for summer cocktails.

3. 8PM Mint Vodka

• ABV: 40%
• Description: A refreshing variant with a hint of mint, ideal for mojitos and other mint-based cocktails.

4. 8PM Berry Vodka

• ABV: 40%
• Description: Infused with a mix of berries, this variant adds a fruity note to your cocktails, making it a favorite for berry lovers.

Popular Cocktails with 8PM Premium Vodka

1. Classic Vodka Martini

• Ingredients: 2 oz 8PM Premium Vodka, 1/2 oz dry vermouth
• Instructions: Stir or shake with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with an olive or a twist of lemon.

2. Cosmopolitan

• Ingredients: 1 1/2 oz 8PM Premium Vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz triple sec, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

3. Moscow Mule

• Ingredients: 2 oz 8PM Premium Vodka, 4 oz ginger beer, 1/2 oz lime juice
• Instructions: Pour vodka and lime juice into a Moscow Mule mug filled with ice. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wedge.

4. Bloody Mary

• Ingredients: 2 oz 8PM Premium Vodka, 4 oz tomato juice, 1/2 oz lemon juice, dash of Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper to taste
• Instructions: Stir all ingredients together and pour into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a celery stick and lemon wedge.

9. 9XO Vodka

In the world of premium vodkas, 9XO Vodka stands out for its exceptional quality and refined taste. Known for its smoothness and versatility, 9XO Vodka offers a superior drinking experience that appeals to both vodka connoisseurs and casual drinkers. This article delves into the unique qualities of 9XO Vodka and why it has become a favorite among vodka enthusiasts.

The Essence of 9XO Vodka
9XO Vodka is crafted with precision and care, using only the finest ingredients and state-of-the-art distillation techniques. This commitment to quality ensures that every bottle of 9XO Vodka meets the highest standards of excellence.

Key Features of 9XO Vodka

1. Superior Quality Ingredients: 9XO Vodka is made from the finest grains and purest water, resulting in a clean and crisp taste. The high-quality ingredients contribute to the vodka's smooth finish and exceptional flavor.

2. Advanced Distillation Process - The vodka undergoes multiple distillation processes to remove impurities and enhance its smoothness. This meticulous process results in a vodka that is exceptionally pure and enjoyable.

3. Smooth and Versatile - 9XO Vodka is renowned for its smoothness, making it perfect for sipping straight or mixing in cocktails. Its versatility allows it to blend seamlessly with various mixers, making it a favorite among bartenders and mixologists.

4. Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 9XO Vodka has an ABV of 40%, which is a standard for premium vodkas. This alcohol content ensures a robust flavor while maintaining a smooth drinking experience.

5. Elegant Packaging -The premium nature of 9XO Vodka is reflected in its packaging. The sleek and stylish bottle design adds a touch of sophistication, making it an excellent choice for gifting or for adding to a well-curated home bar.

Variations of 9XO Vodka

1. 9XO Classic Vodka

• ABV: 40%
• Description: The original and most popular variant, known for its clean taste and smooth finish.

2. 9XO Citrus Vodka

ABV: 40%
Description: Infused with natural citrus flavors, this variant offers a refreshing twist, perfect for summer cocktails.

• 3. 9XO Berry Vodka
• ABV: 40%
• Description: Infused with a mix of berries, this variant adds a fruity note to your cocktails, making it a favorite for berry lovers.

4. 9XO Mint Vodka

• ABV: 40%
• Description: A refreshing variant with a hint of mint, ideal for mojitos and other mint-based cocktails.

Popular Cocktails with 9XO Vodka

1. Classic Vodka Martini

• Ingredients: 2 oz 9XO Vodka, 1/2 oz dry vermouth
• Instructions: Stir or shake with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with an olive or a twist of lemon.

2. Cosmopolitan

• Ingredients: 1 1/2 oz 9XO Vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz triple sec, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.

3. Moscow Mule

• Ingredients: 2 oz 9XO Vodka, 4 oz ginger beer, 1/2 oz lime juice
• Instructions: Pour vodka and lime juice into a Moscow Mule mug filled with ice. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wedge.

4. Bloody Mary

• Ingredients: 2 oz 9XO Vodka, 4 oz tomato juice, 1/2 oz lemon juice, dash of Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper to taste
• Instructions: Stir all ingredients together and pour into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a celery stick and lemon wedge.

10. Imperial Blue

Imperial Blue Whisky, a renowned name in the Indian whisky market, has earned its place among the top choices for whisky enthusiasts. Known for its smoothness and rich flavor profile, Imperial Blue offers a premium drinking experience. This article explores the unique qualities of Imperial Blue Whisky and why it remains a favorite among whisky lovers.

The Essence of Imperial Blue Whisky
Imperial Blue is a brand under the umbrella of Pernod Ricard, a global leader in the spirits industry. Introduced in 1997, Imperial Blue has quickly risen to prominence due to its exceptional quality and consistent taste.

Key Features of Imperial Blue Whisky

1. Superior Quality Ingredients
Imperial Blue is crafted from a blend of the finest Indian grain spirits and Scotch malts. This combination results in a whisky that is both smooth and full-bodied.

2. Rich and Smooth Flavor Profile
The whisky is known for its rich aroma and smooth taste. It offers a perfect balance of sweetness and maltiness, making it enjoyable for both new and seasoned whisky drinkers.

3. Meticulous Distillation Process
Imperial Blue undergoes a meticulous distillation process that ensures the removal of impurities and the preservation of its unique flavor profile. This process is critical to maintaining the high standards associated with the brand.

4. Alcohol By Volume (ABV)
Imperial Blue Whisky has an ABV of 42.8%, which is standard for premium Indian whiskies. This alcohol content provides a robust flavor while ensuring a smooth drinking experience.

5. Elegant Packaging
The whisky is presented in an elegant bottle that reflects its premium quality. The packaging is both stylish and functional, making it a great addition to any collection or a perfect gift.

Variations of Imperial Blue Whisky

1. Imperial Blue Superior Grain Whisky

• ABV: 42.8%
• Description: The classic variant known for its smoothness and rich flavor.

2. Imperial Blue Premium Grain Blend

• ABV: 42.8%
• Description: A premium blend that offers a more refined taste with enhanced smoothness and complexity.

Popular Ways to Enjoy Imperial Blue Whisky

1. Neat or On the Rocks

Imperial Blue Whisky can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks to appreciate its full flavor profile.

2. Classic Whisky Cocktails

Whisky Sour: Mix Imperial Blue with lemon juice, sugar syrup, and a dash of egg white for a frothy finish.
Old Fashioned: Combine Imperial Blue with a sugar cube, bitters, and a twist of orange peel for a classic experience.

3. Whisky Highball

Ingredients: 2 oz. Imperial Blue Whisky, soda water, ice
Instructions: Fill a highball glass with ice, pour in the whisky, and top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon slice.

Classic Vodka Cocktails

Vodka is a versatile spirit that serves as the base for a wide range of classic cocktails. Known for its smooth and clean taste, vodka blends seamlessly with various mixers, making it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. This article highlights some of the most beloved classic vodka cocktails that have stood the test of time.

1. Vodka Martini
The Vodka Martini is a sophisticated and elegant cocktail that showcases the purity of vodka. Stirred or shaken with dry vermouth and garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon, this timeless classic is perfect for those who appreciate a clean and crisp drink.

2. Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. Served in a chilled cocktail glass and garnished with a lime wheel, this pink-hued drink is both stylish and delicious, making it a favorite for social gatherings.

3. Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing and zesty cocktail served in a distinctive copper mug. Combining vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice, this drink offers a perfect balance of spice and citrus, making it a popular choice for a hot day.

4. Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a savory and spicy cocktail that is often enjoyed as a brunch staple. Made with vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and various seasonings, this drink is typically garnished with a celery stick and a lemon wedge, offering a unique and flavorful experience.

5. Screwdriver
The Screwdriver is a simple yet refreshing cocktail that combines vodka and orange juice. Its straightforward ingredients make it easy to prepare, and its bright, citrusy flavor makes it a popular choice for any occasion.

6. Black Russian
The Black Russian is a rich and robust cocktail made with vodka and coffee liqueur. This simple yet flavorful drink is perfect for those who enjoy the bold taste of coffee combined with the smoothness of vodka.

7. White Russian
The White Russian is a creamy and indulgent cocktail that adds heavy cream to the classic Black Russian. This decadent drink is perfect for dessert or a luxurious treat, offering a smooth blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream.

8. Vodka Tonic
The Vodka Tonic is a light and refreshing cocktail that pairs vodka with tonic water. Garnished with a lime wedge, this drink is easy to prepare and perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and bubbly beverage.

These classic vodka cocktails highlight the versatility and smoothness of vodka, making it an essential spirit for any home bar. Whether you prefer a simple Screwdriver or a more complex Bloody Mary, these timeless favorites offer something for every palate. Experiment with these recipes to find your favorite way to enjoy vodka.

Final Words

The top 10 vodka brands in India offer a diverse range of variants and alcohol by volume (ABV) percentages, catering to different consumer preferences. From Magic Moments' flavored options to the classic appeal of White Mischief and Romanov, each brand brings distinct characteristics to the vibrant vodka landscape in India. With the introduction of new names like Goa 1535 and Eristoff, consumers have a wide spectrum of choices to explore and appreciate.

 

In 2024, the retail market in India is an excellent area for entrepreneurs to start businesses with low investment but high potential for profit. Current trends show great opportunities in various areas such as food & beverage, fashion & accessories, home & decor, services, technology, and online businesses.

For those looking into retail business ideas in India, it's a good time to explore. Identifying specific markets and understanding what customers want can help new business owners find their place in this competitive industry. The key to success is a well-thought-out business plan that focuses on keeping costs low. This approach allows for starting profitable retail businesses without needing a lot of money upfront.

This guide aims to give you insights into the most promising and low-cost retail business ideas in India. It's meant to help you understand the retail market better and succeed in it in the coming year.

Food & Beverage: Best Retail Business Idea in India

When considering the food and beverage sector as a potential retail business opportunity, several promising options come to mind. These include setting up a coffee shop, operating a food truck, establishing a bakery, participating in farmers markets, or offering a meal prep service.

Each of these ventures presents unique opportunities for entrepreneurs to tap into the growing demand for quality food and beverages while keeping investment costs low.

Coffee Shop

Brew, Sip, Thrive: Your Coffee Shop Dream in India



Market: India's coffee market is frothing! Estimated at ₹1.1 lakh crore by 2025, chai-lovers are embracing specialty coffee like never before.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Rent, equipment, and initial inventory can vary by location and concept.

Growth: Go beyond lattes! Offer locally-sourced beans like Chikmagalur Arabica, cold brew variations like nitro, and workshops for coffee enthusiasts. Partner with local tiffin services and offer "chai-time" discounts.

Food Truck

Street Food Symphony: Rolling Profits on Indian Wheels



Market: India's street food scene is a vibrant tapestry, and food trucks are joining the party! The market is expected to reach ₹2,750 crore by 2024, with millennials and urbanites leading the charge.

Capital: Moderate (₹8-15 lakh). Truck customization, equipment, and initial inventory are key costs.

Growth: Fusion is your friend! Blend regional specialties with global flavors, like Hyderabadi biryani tacos or Kerala curry poutine. Offer vegan and gluten-free options for health-conscious foodies. Partner with local festivals and events to expand your reach.

Success Mantra: Focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, unique dishes, and hygienic preparation. Leverage social media to build buzz and offer online ordering. Keep it mobile! Cater to corporate lunches, private events, and college campuses.

Bakery

Rise and Shine: Baking a Profitable Loaf in India



Market: India's baking industry is sweetening up, with a projected market size of ₹6,800 crore by 2024. From traditional mithai to artisanal breads, there's room for everyone to rise.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-30 lakh). Rent, equipment, and initial inventory, particularly for ovens and ingredients, can be substantial.

Growth: Go beyond the basic! Offer fusion desserts like chai macarons or rosewater gulab jamuns. Cater to health trends with gluten-free options and vegan pastries. Partner with coffee shops and restaurants for wholesale supply.

Success Mantra: Focus on high-quality ingredients, local specialties with a twist, and stunning visuals (think Instagrammable cakes!). Offer delivery and customized cakes for special occasions. Leverage online platforms for marketing and orders.

Farmers Market Stand

Fresh from the Field: Your Green Thumb's Profitable Dream



Market: India's organic market is booming, with consumers seeking fresh, local produce. Farmers' markets tap into this trend, offering a platform for ethical sourcing and community connection.

Capital: Low (₹2-5 lakh). Stall setup, basic equipment, and initial inventory are key costs.

Growth: Diversify beyond veggies! Offer organic herbs, artisanal cheeses, locally-made jams, and handmade crafts. Partner with local farmers for unique offerings and organize workshops on sustainable farming.

Success Mantra: Focus on freshness, variety, and building relationships with your customers. Embrace storytelling! Highlight the farmers and their stories behind the produce. Leverage social media to promote your market and offer online pre-orders.

Meal Prep Service

Flavorful Fuel: Prepping Profits in India's Busy Kitchens

Market: India's urbanites are time-strapped and health-conscious, making meal prep services a hot trend. The market is expected to reach ₹4,000 crore by 2025, with healthy, convenient options leading the charge.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Kitchen equipment, packaging, initial ingredients, and delivery logistics are key costs.

Growth: Cater to diverse dietary needs! Offer vegan, keto, diabetic-friendly, and regional cuisine options. Partner with local gyms and wellness centers. Leverage social media for engaging recipe videos and meal testimonials.

Success Mantra: Focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, portion control, and diverse meal plans. Offer flexible subscriptions and convenient delivery options. Emphasize the convenience factor and health benefits. Build trust through transparency about ingredients and sourcing.

Gourmet Grocery Store

Palate Pleasures: Curating a Gourmet Goldmine in India

Market: India's discerning palates crave unique, high-quality ingredients. The gourmet grocery market is expected to touch ₹10,000 crore by 2025, offering ample room for curated experiences.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹20-40 lakh). Rent, sophisticated display units, initial inventory of premium products, and staff training can be significant.

Growth: Go beyond the ordinary! Source exotic fruits, artisanal cheeses, cold-pressed oils, and locally-made gourmet treats. Offer tastings, workshops on food pairing, and chef collaborations. Partner with high-end restaurants and cater to private events.

Success Mantra: Focus on exclusivity, quality, and personalized service. Create a sophisticated ambiance with curated displays and knowledgeable staff. Offer delivery and subscription boxes for loyal customers. Leverage social media to showcase your unique offerings and build a community of food enthusiasts.

Hot Sauce or Spice Blends

Spice Up Your Profits: Fiery Flavors in India's Hot Market

Market: India's love affair with spice is a constant sizzle! The hot sauce market is expected to reach ₹1,000 crore by 2025, while spice blends hold a steady ₹18,000 crore market. Fiery flavors are in demand.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Equipment, initial ingredients, packaging, and branding are key costs.

Growth: Go niche! Offer unique regional blends like Kashmiri mirch masala or Naga chili sauce. Innovate with fusion flavors like mango habanero or smoked paprika rubs. Partner with local restaurants and caterers. Hit the festival circuit!

Success Mantra: Focus on quality ingredients, unique flavors, and heat levels for every palate. Eye-catching packaging and branding are crucial. Leverage social media for spicy challenges and recipe collaborations. Offer online ordering and subscription boxes for loyal customers.

Food Subscription Box

Unbox Delicious Discovery: Your Food Subscription Feast in India

Market: India's online food market is exploding! The subscription box segment is expected to reach ₹3,000 crore by
2025, with curated experiences and regional flavors driving growth.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Packaging, initial inventory, marketing, and logistics are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the usual suspects! Offer regional specialties like Odiya Rasmalai or Rajasthani Laal Maas boxes. Cater to dietary needs with vegan, gluten-free, or diabetic-friendly options. Partner with local chefs and food artisans for unique experiences.

Success Mantra: Focus on high-quality ingredients, surprise and delight with unique themes, and offer flexible subscription options. Partner with delivery services for smooth logistics. Leverage social media to build anticipation through unboxing videos and customer testimonials.

Kombucha Brewery

Brew a Buzzworthy Business: Fermenting Profits with Kombucha in India

Market: India's wellness wave is rising, making kombucha a trendy, healthy beverage. The market is expected to reach ₹100 crore by 2025, offering ample room for innovative brewers.

Capital: Moderate (₹15-25 lakh). Equipment (brewing tanks, bottling machinery), initial ingredients, and branding are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic flavors! Experiment with local fruits like Jamun or Kokum, offer seasonal variations, and cater to health trends with detox or probiotic-rich blends. Partner with yoga studios and health stores for exclusive offerings.

Success Mantra: Focus on high-quality ingredients, unique flavor profiles, and sustainable practices. Build a strong brand identity with eye-catching packaging and storytelling. Offer online ordering and subscriptions for convenience. Leverage social media for kombucha-making tutorials and health benefits awareness.

Mobile Bartending Service

Shake, Stir, Elevate: Your Mobile Bar, India's Party Pulse

Market: India's nightlife is booming! Private parties, weddings, and events crave unique experiences. Mobile bartending services are expected to reach ₹500 crore by 2025, offering a lucrative shake-up to the traditional bar scene.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Equipment (portable bar, glassware, cocktail shakers), initial ingredients, licenses, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the basic! Offer craft cocktails, molecular mixology, personalized drink menus, and themed bartending experiences. Partner with event planners, venues, and caterers for exclusive bookings. Host mixology workshops and pop-up bars at festivals.

Success Mantra: Focus on professionalism, high-quality ingredients, and dazzling presentation. Offer flexible packages, customized menus, and seamless logistics. Build trust with responsible alcohol practices and impeccable service. Leverage social media for stunning cocktail visuals and customer testimonials.

2. Fashion & Accessories: Best Retail Business in India

Vintage Clothing Boutique

Reimagine, Repurpose, Rise: Your Vintage Clothing Dream in India

Market: India's conscious consumers crave unique style. The vintage market is expected to reach ₹2,500 crore by 2025, offering a treasure trove for savvy entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-30 lakh). Rent, curation, initial inventory, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond sarees! Source pre-loved gems like bandhej skirts, 70s bell-bottoms, or quirky band tees. Offer restoration services for vintage finds. Partner with local designers for upcycled collections.

Success Mantra: Focus on authenticity, storytelling (highlight previous owners!), and curation for diverse styles. Embrace online platforms for wider reach and offer personalized styling consultations. Host vintage pop-up events and workshops on garment care.

Handmade Jewelry

Craft, Sparkle, and Thrive: Your Handmade Jewelry Dream in India

Market: India's love for jewelry is eternal, and handmade pieces hold a special charm. The market is expected to reach ₹6,000 crore by 2025, with unique craftsmanship leading the way.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-15 lakh). Equipment, initial materials, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the ordinary! Experiment with sustainable materials like recycled metals or wood. Offer contemporary designs like geometric earrings or statement necklaces. Partner with local artisans for traditional techniques like meenakari or kundan.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality craftsmanship, unique designs, and storytelling behind your pieces. Build a strong brand identity with visually-appealing packaging and online presence. Offer customization options and cater to festivals and wedding seasons.

Upcycled Fashion

Stitch, Snip, Sustain: Upcycle to Fashionable Profits in India

Market: India's eco-conscious consumers are embracing upcycled fashion. The market is projected to touch ₹1,500 crore by 2025, offering a lucrative canvas for creative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Initial inventory, sourcing discarded textiles/clothing, basic equipment, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic bags! Transform pre-loved sarees into trendy jumpsuits, denim jackets into patchwork skirts, or vintage band tees into customized crop tops. Partner with local designers for collaborative upcycled collections.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality craftsmanship, unique designs, and transparency about your upcycled materials. Build a strong brand identity that emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices. Leverage social media for eye-catching visuals and customer testimonials. Host workshops on upcycling techniques and collaborate with sustainability initiatives.

Custom T-Shirt Printing

Print Your Passion: Custom T-Shirt Profits in India

Market: India's youth crave unique expression. Custom t-shirt printing is booming, offering a lucrative canvas for your creativity.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Equipment (printer, heat press), initial inventory (blank t-shirts), marketing, and running costs are key.

Growth: Go beyond basic designs! Offer trendy themes (pop culture, local memes), personalized text and logos, and even photo printing. Partner with local artists, influencers, or student groups for exclusive designs. Host pop-up printing events at festivals or college campuses.

Success Mantra: Focus on high-quality printing, fast turnaround times, and competitive pricing. Build a user-friendly online ordering platform and offer design assistance. Leverage social media for eye-catching visuals and customer testimonials. Offer discounts for bulk orders and loyalty programs.

Sustainable Clothing Line

Threading Green Profits: Building a Sustainable Clothing Line in India

Market: India's eco-conscious consumers are clamoring for sustainable fashion alternatives. The market is expected to reach ₹5,600 crore by 2025, offering a fertile ground for ethical brands.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-30 lakh). Sourcing sustainable materials, ethical production, initial inventory, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond buzzwords! Focus on certified organic fabrics like GOTS cotton or recycled materials like PET bottles. Offer transparent production processes, partnering with fair-trade certified manufacturers.

Success Mantra: Design for longevity! Prioritize timeless silhouettes and natural dyes. Offer repair and upcycling services to extend garment life. Build a strong brand identity that resonates with eco-conscious values.

Niche Options:

• Modern Handlooms: Reimagine traditional Indian textiles like khadi or ikkat in contemporary designs.
• Activewear with a Conscience: Create eco-friendly sportswear using recycled polyester or bamboo fibers.
• Minimalist Essentials: Offer capsule collections made from durable, organic materials.
• Slow Fashion with Soul: Focus on small-batch production, artisanal techniques, and zero-waste practices.

Remember:

• Partner with local artisans and communities for authentic production.
• Leverage social media to educate consumers about your sustainability practices.
• Offer competitive pricing and accessible options for wider reach.
• Collaborate with eco-conscious influencers and retailers.

By aligning your passion for fashion with sustainability principles, you can build a thriving clothing line that makes a positive impact in India's blossoming eco-conscious market.

Pop-Up Fashion Shop

Popping Up to Profits: Your India Fashion Pop-up Dream

Market: India's fashion scene is ripe for unique experiences. Pop-up shops offer a dynamic way to test the waters and connect with customers directly.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Venue rental, initial inventory, basic décor, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the ordinary! Theme your pop-up around a trend (boho chic, sustainable fashion), local designers, or a specific occasion (festive season, college fests). Offer exclusive discounts, personalized styling consultations, and interactive workshops. Partner with local cafes, art galleries, or co-working spaces for a unique setting.

Success Mantra: Focus on creating a buzz! Eye-catching décor, engaging social media posts, and strategic collaborations are key. Offer limited-edition pieces or flash sales to drive urgency. Leverage online platforms for pre-orders and post-event follow-up.

Niche Options:

• Local Designer Showcase: Partner with up-and-coming Indian designers for a curated pop-up.
• Vintage Revival: Offer pre-loved fashion finds with a modern twist.
• Sustainable Swap Meet: Organize a clothing swap event where customers can refresh their wardrobe while reducing waste.
• Pop-Up Art Bazaar: Combine fashion with art installations and live music for a multi-sensory experience.

Remember:

• Secure a strategic location with high foot traffic and a vibe that aligns with your theme.
• Offer seamless payment options for a smooth customer experience.
• Gather customer feedback and adapt your offerings for future pop-up events.

Subscription Box for Beauty Products

Unbox Beauty Magic: Your Subscription Box Dream in India

Market: India's beauty market is booming, with subscription boxes offering a convenient and exciting way to discover new products. This market is projected to reach ₹3,000 crore by 2025, making it ripe for innovative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Initial inventory, packaging, marketing, and logistics are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the usual! Offer niche boxes for specific skin types, concerns (acne-prone, sensitive), or beauty goals (natural glow, anti-aging). Partner with local, organic brands and emerging beauty influencers for unique products. Host online tutorials and Q&A sessions with subscribers.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality, curated products, and personalized experiences. Offer flexible subscription options and surprise your subscribers with bonus samples or limited-edition items. Leverage social media for enticing unboxing videos and customer testimonials. Partner with delivery services for smooth logistics.

Niche Options:

• Ayurvedic Bliss: Offer boxes featuring traditional Indian beauty ingredients like turmeric, neem, and sandalwood.
• Men's Grooming Box: Cater to the growing male grooming market with beard care, skin care, and hair styling products.
• Eco-Conscious Beauty: Focus on sustainable brands and organic, cruelty-free products.
• DIY Beauty Kits: Provide subscribers with all the ingredients and instructions to create their own masks, scrubs, or bath bombs at home.

Remember:

• Understand your target audience and their beauty needs.
• Build trust with transparent ingredient lists and ethical sourcing practices.
• Offer excellent customer service and respond promptly to inquiries.
• Leverage online platforms for subscriptions, marketing, and community building.

By catering to specific needs, offering curated experiences, and embracing innovation, you can build a thriving subscription box business that delights beauty enthusiasts in India.

Personalized Phone Cases

Case the Trend: Your Personalized Phone Case Empire in India

Market: India's mobile-obsessed population craves individuality. Personalized phone cases are expected to reach
₹1,500 crore by 2025, offering a lucrative canvas for your creativity.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Equipment (printing machine, design software), initial inventory (blank cases), marketing, and logistics are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond initials! Offer photo printing, custom designs (memes, local art), and even 3D printed cases. Partner with local artists, influencers, or student groups for exclusive designs. Host customization workshops and pop-up shops at festivals or college campuses.

Success Mantra: Focus on high-quality printing, fast turnaround times, and user-friendly customization options. Build a strong online presence with a design platform and showcase customer creations. Offer competitive pricing and bundle deals for multiple cases.

Niche Options:

• Eco-Friendly Cases: Use recycled materials or plant-based plastics for a sustainable edge.
• Tech-Savvy Cases: Integrate wireless charging pads or LED displays for added functionality.
• Culturally Inspired: Offer designs featuring Indian motifs, Bollywood stars, or regional patterns.
• Protective Pro: Focus on rugged, drop-proof cases for adventurous phone users.

Remember:

• Secure reliable printing suppliers and ensure consistent quality across designs.
• Offer a variety of phone models and case types for wider reach.
• Leverage social media for eye-catching visuals and customer testimonials.
• Partner with online retailers or phone stores for additional sales channels.

By tapping into India's love for personalization and embracing unique design options, you can build a thriving phone case business that keeps customers coming back for more.

Second-Hand Designer Clothing

Breathe New Life, Reap Profits: Your Second-Hand Designer Dream in India

Market: India's fashion scene is embracing sustainability, and second-hand designer clothing is a hot trend. With the
market expected to reach ₹10,000 crore by 2025, India offers fertile ground for your pre-loved luxury venture.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Rent, initial inventory, authentication tools, marketing, and logistics are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond generic! Focus on sought-after designer brands, vintage finds, and limited-edition pieces. Offer transparent condition grading and detailed descriptions. Partner with local fashion influencers or consignment stores for sourcing and promotion.

Success Mantra: Build trust! Implement rigorous authentication processes and offer a satisfaction guarantee. Create a sophisticated ambiance with curated displays and personalized customer service. Leverage social media for stunning visuals, customer testimonials, and exclusive deals.

Niche Options:

• Curated Collections: Theme your offerings around specific designers, eras, or styles (minimalist chic, bold prints).
• Sustainable Statement: Highlight the environmental benefits of buying pre-loved and offer upcycling or repair services.
• Luxury Concierge: Cater to high-end clients with personalized sourcing, styling consultations, and VIP events.
• Pop-Up Paradise: Organize temporary events showcasing curated collections in trendy locations.

Remember:

• Understand your target audience and their designer preferences.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers and ensure authenticity of every item.
• Offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options.
• Leverage online platforms for wider reach and seamless transactions.

By curating unique collections, establishing trust, and embracing the online landscape, you can transform your passion for second-hand designer clothing into a thriving business.

Pet Accessories Boutique

Pawsome Profits: Your Pet Accessory Boutique Dream in India

Market: India's pet parents are pampering their furry loved ones! The pet accessories market in India is expected to reach a whopping ₹5,000 crore by 2025, offering ample opportunities for pawsome entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-20 lakh). Rent, initial inventory, branding, marketing, and display fixtures are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the basics! Offer unique, locally-sourced accessories like hand-woven collars, sustainable toys made from recycled materials, or personalized bandanas with pet names. Partner with local designers or artisans for exclusive collections. Host workshops on DIY pet accessories or dog training sessions for added engagement.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality, functionality, and style. Cater to different pet needs with accessories for various breeds and activities (swimming, hiking, agility training). Offer personalized recommendations and build trust with transparent product information. Leverage social media for adorable pet model photos, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your furry friends.

Niche Options:

• Pooch Couture: Focus on high-end designer collars, custom harnesses, and stylish pet apparel.
• Active Paws: Offer functional accessories like reflective leashes, durable harnesses, and comfortable dog boots.
• Eco-Conscious Pets: Cater to eco-conscious pet owners with sustainable pet beds, biodegradable toys, and organic treats.
• Furry Fandom: Create accessories themed around popular movies, TV shows, or local sports teams.

Remember:

• Understand your target audience and their pet's specific needs and preferences.
• Partner with reliable suppliers and ensure high-quality materials for pet safety.
• Offer seamless online ordering and delivery options for convenience.
• Organize adoption or fundraising events for local animal shelters to build community goodwill.

By catering to your furry friends' fashion sense and offering unique, locally-sourced accessories, you can build a thriving pet boutique that wags its tail in profit in India.

Home & Decor - Retail Business Ideas

Succulent and Cactus Shop

 

Prickly Profits: Building a Thriving Succulent and Cactus Shop in India

Market: Succulents and cacti are trending in India, offering a low-maintenance, visually captivating business opportunity. The market is expected to reach a staggering ₹100 crore by 2025, making it ripe for creative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Rent, initial inventory, pots/containers, marketing, and basic tools are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic varieties! Offer rare succulents like crested specimens, string of pearls, or living stones. Cater to different needs with dwarf varieties for terrariums and large specimens for statement pieces. Partner with local nurseries or growers for sustainable sourcing and unique finds.

Success Mantra: Focus on education and care! Provide detailed information cards, watering guides, and workshops on succulent and cactus care. Offer curated gift baskets, corporate gifting options, and personalized arrangements. Leverage social media for stunning visuals, care tips, and customer testimonials.

Niche Options:

• Miniature Gardens: Create terrariums, fairy gardens, or bonsai-style arrangements featuring miniature succulents and cacti.
• Vertical Gardens: Offer space-saving solutions with hanging baskets, wall planters, and vertical garden systems.
• DIY Terrarium Kits: Provide everything customers need to create their own miniature worlds, including soil, rocks, and decorative elements.
• Artisanal Pots and Decor: Partner with local artisans for unique ceramic, terracotta, or hand-painted pots that complement your plants.

Remember:

• Understand the specific needs of different succulents and cacti.
• Offer a variety of pot sizes, materials, and drainage options to suit customer preferences.
• Provide excellent customer service and answer questions about care and troubleshooting.
• Explore online platforms for wider reach and convenient ordering options.

Candle Making Business

 

Light Up Profits: Building a Thriving Candle Making Business in India

Market: India's love for fragrance and ambiance is making candle making a lucrative venture. The market is expected to reach ₹13.38 billion by 2028, offering a fragrant opportunity for passionate entrepreneurs.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Initial inventory (wax, wicks, fragrances, molds), basic equipment (melting pot, thermometer, scale), marketing, and packaging are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond the basics! Experiment with natural ingredients like soy wax, essential oils, and botanicals. Offer unique scents inspired by Indian spices, festivals, or local ingredients. Create themed collections for holidays, weddings, or aromatherapy purposes. Partner with local artists for custom labels or collaborations.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and safety. Use certified waxes, phthalate-free fragrances, and lead-free wicks. Offer transparent ingredient lists and burning instructions. Build a strong brand identity with visually appealing packaging and storytelling. Leverage social media for stunning visuals, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and customer testimonials.

Niche Options:

• Luxury Candles: Focus on high-end ingredients, hand-poured techniques, and elegant packaging for the discerning customer.
• Sustainable Candles: Use recycled glass containers, organic waxes, and eco-friendly packaging to appeal to conscious consumers.
• Aroma Therapy Candles: Blend essential oils for specific benefits like relaxation, stress relief, or sleep improvement.
• Interactive Candles: Offer candles with hidden surprises like crackling wood wick, self-revealing messages, or blooming flowers.

Remember:

• Understand the different waxes, fragrances, and wick types for optimal burning.
• Comply with safety regulations and quality standards for candle making.
• Offer a variety of candle sizes, shapes, and burn times to cater to different preferences.
• Explore online platforms for wider reach and convenient sales channels.

Home Decor Consignment Shop

Revamp, Refine, Resell: Building a Thriving Home Decor Consignment Shop in India

Market: India's growing appetite for unique and affordable home decor creates fertile ground for a consignment
shop. With rising awareness of sustainability and pre-loved treasures, this venture offers a lucrative path for eco-conscious entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-15 lakh). Rent, initial marketing, display fixtures, storage space, and consignment agreements are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond ordinary furniture! Source curated collections of vintage finds, upcycled pieces, and locally crafted decor. Offer consignment options for unique artwork, statement lamps, and antique accents. Partner with local artists and artisans for exclusive collaborations. Host workshops on DIY decor projects or furniture restoration.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and curation. Implement stringent selection criteria and prioritize items in good condition with timeless appeal. Offer transparent pricing, fair consignment terms, and clear communication with consignors. Leverage social media for captivating visuals, customer testimonials, and "behind-the-scenes" peeks at your curated collections.

Niche Options:

• Mid-Century Modern Oasis: Cater to nostalgia lovers with vintage furniture, retro accessories, and art deco accents.
• Sustainable Sanctuary: Offer upcycled furniture, eco-friendly decor made from recycled materials, and vintage finds with a story.
• Local Artisans' Haven: Showcase the work of local woodworkers, potters, and textile artists, creating a platform for their talent.
• Themed Treasure Trove: curate collections around specific styles (boho chic, minimalist, industrial) or seasonal themes (festive decor, cozy winter accents).

Safety and Ethical Practices:

• Ensure proper handling and cleaning of all consigned items to maintain hygiene and prevent potential allergens.
• Implement clear policies on item valuation, consignment fees, and damage handling to avoid misunderstandings.
• Prioritize transparency in pricing and product descriptions to build trust with customers.
• Be mindful of cultural sensitivities when selecting and displaying artwork or decor.

Remember:

• Understand your target audience and their home decor preferences.
• Build relationships with potential consignors and offer fair deals.
• Create a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere in your shop.
• Offer flexible payment options and delivery services for customer convenience.

Vintage Furniture Restoration

 

Breathing Life into Vintage: Building a Thriving Furniture Restoration Business in India

Market: India's growing appreciation for heritage and upcycling creates a promising market for vintage furniture restoration. With a focus on sustainability and unique finds, this venture offers a lucrative path for passionate entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Rent, initial equipment (sanders, tools, paints), workshop space, marketing, and materials are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic repairs! Offer comprehensive restoration services like wood stripping, structural repairs, upholstery reupholstering, and custom finishing. Partner with local artisans for specialized techniques like hand-carving or metalwork. Create bespoke pieces by combining vintage elements with modern touches.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and authenticity. Prioritize preserving the original character of each piece while addressing any functional issues. Use eco-friendly products and sustainable practices whenever possible. Build trust with transparent communication and clear restoration timelines. Leverage social media for stunning before-and-after visuals, customer testimonials, and restoration process insights.

Niche Options:

• Mid-Century Modern Revival: Specialize in restoring iconic pieces from the 1950s and 60s, catering to design enthusiasts and collectors.
• Upcycled Masterpieces: Transform salvaged wood, discarded furniture parts, or vintage finds into unique, one-of-a-kind pieces with a contemporary edge.
• Heritage Restoration: Focus on restoring antique furniture with historical significance, partnering with museums or collectors for specialized projects.
• Eco-Conscious Refurbishment: Use natural oils, recycled materials, and upcycled techniques to create sustainable and environmentally friendly furniture restorations.

Additional Services:

• Offer consultation services to help customers identify and value vintage pieces.
• Provide furniture refinishing and painting services for modern furniture.
• Host workshops on basic furniture repair and upcycling techniques.
• Partner with interior designers or real estate agents for referral opportunities.

Safety and Regulations:

• Ensure proper workshop ventilation and safety equipment for handling tools and chemicals.
• Comply with local regulations for waste disposal and environmental protection.
• Obtain necessary permits and licenses for operating a workshop and restoration business.
• Partner with insurance companies to offer restoration services for damaged furniture.

Remember:

• Develop your skills and knowledge of various furniture styles, materials, and restoration techniques.
• Build relationships with local suppliers of tools, materials, and upholstery fabrics.
• Create a portfolio showcasing your restoration expertise and unique projects.
• Offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options to attract customers.

DIY Home Improvement Kits

From Toolbox to Top Seller: Building a Thriving DIY Home Improvement Kit Business in India

Market: India's growing appetite for self-reliance and personalized home spaces creates fertile ground for DIY home
improvement kits. This market is expected to reach ₹1,500 crore by 2025, offering a lucrative path for innovative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Initial inventory (tools, materials), packaging, marketing, and platform development are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic painting kits! Offer themed kits for specific projects (bathroom upgrades, garden renovations, balcony makeovers) or skill levels (beginner-friendly, advanced). Cater to diverse needs with kits for furniture upcycling, smart home installations, or eco-friendly improvements. Partner with local manufacturers or artisans for unique materials and sustainable options.

Success Mantra: Focus on convenience and ease. Provide pre-cut materials, clear instructions with visual aids, and accessible online tutorials. Offer high-quality tools and materials to ensure successful project outcomes. Build a user-friendly online platform for kit purchase, project inspiration, and community interaction. Leverage social media for step-by-step visuals, customer success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of kit creation.

Niche Options:

• Sustainable Home Kits: Offer kits featuring eco-friendly materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled glass for conscious DIYers.
• Tech-Savvy Upgrades: Provide kits for installing smart home devices, solar panels, or energy-efficient appliances.
• Upcycling Adventure: Offer kits for transforming old furniture, pallets, or vintage finds into unique and functional pieces.
• Kid-Friendly Craftsmanship: Design kits for parents and children to build together, fostering creativity and bonding experiences.

Additional Services:

• Offer online consultations and troubleshooting support for customers during their projects.
• Provide rental options for tools and equipment for specific tasks.
• Host workshops and demonstrations showcasing DIY skills and kit applications.
• Partner with hardware stores or home improvement retailers for wider reach and cross-promotion.

Eco-Friendly Home Goods

Green Up Your Home: Building a Thriving Eco-Friendly Home Goods Business in India

Market: India's growing awareness of sustainability and ethical practices is fueling the demand for eco-friendly home
goods. This market is expected to reach a staggering ₹20,000 crore by 2025, offering a lucrative path for conscious entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Sourcing sustainable materials, ethical production practices, initial inventory, branding, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic bamboo products! Offer innovative home goods made from recycled materials like plastic, textiles, or paper. Partner with local artisans and craftspeople who use traditional, eco-friendly techniques. Focus on functionality and durability to counter the "disposable" perception of eco-friendly products.

Success Mantra: Focus on transparency and authenticity. Clearly communicate the sustainability benefits of your products and highlight ethical sourcing practices. Obtain certifications like GOTS or FSC for organic materials or fair trade practices. Build trust with detailed product descriptions and information on end-of-life solutions (recycling, upcycling). Leverage social media for captivating visuals, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your eco-conscious journey.

Niche Options:

• Zero-Waste Kitchen Essentials: Offer reusable food wraps, compostable dishware, and bamboo kitchen utensils for a sustainable culinary experience.
• Sustainable Textiles and Bedding: Provide organic cotton bedding, recycled wool blankets, and handcrafted rugs made from natural fibers.
• Eco-Conscious Cleaning Solutions: Offer non-toxic cleaning products, refillable dispensers, and DIY cleaning kits with natural ingredients.
• Upcycled Furniture and Decor: Transform salvaged wood, discarded textiles, or vintage finds into unique and functional pieces with a sustainable story.

Customizable Wall Art

Paint Your Canvas, Own Your Walls: Building a Thriving Customizable Wall Art Business in India

Market: India's growing demand for personalized home decor makes customizable wall art a lucrative opportunity. With rising disposable incomes and a desire for unique spaces, this market is expected to reach ₹5,600 crore by 2025, offering a blank canvas for creative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial inventory (prints, canvases, frames), design software, marketing, and production equipment are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond generic prints! Offer a variety of customization options like:

• Photo Manipulation: Turn customers' photos into stunning wall art, like watercolor paintings, pop art renditions, or silhouette portraits.
• Interactive Designs: Create QR code wall art that leads to hidden messages, personalized playlists, or augmented reality experiences.
• Modular Canvas Sets: Offer customizable sets with interchangeable panels, allowing customers to adapt the artwork to their space and preferences.
• Local Inspiration: Feature designs inspired by Indian art forms, festivals, or local landmarks for a touch of cultural pride.

Success Mantra: Focus on user-friendliness and quality. Develop an intuitive online platform where customers can easily upload photos, choose designs, and preview their final artwork. Use high-quality printing techniques and durable materials to ensure longevity and customer satisfaction. Leverage social media for inspiring customer creations, design tutorials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process.

Niche Options:

• Minimalist Masterpieces: Offer customizable line drawings, geometric patterns, and typographic designs for a modern and sophisticated look.
• Children's Wall Magic: Create personalized wall art featuring cartoon characters, fairy tales, or educational themes for a child's room.
• Heritage Revival: Offer designs inspired by traditional Indian art forms like Madhubani paintings, Mughal miniatures, or Warli art.
• Interactive Storytelling: Develop wall art with hidden messages or puzzles that encourage engagement and spark imagination.

Modern Planter Shop

Sprout a Thriving Business: Building a Modern Planter Shop in India

Market: Home decor trends in India are embracing modern aesthetics, and stylish planters are a sought-after accessory. With rising disposable incomes and urban living spaces, this market offers a fertile ground for green-thumbed entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial inventory (planters, plants, accessories), store setup (rent, design), online platform development, and marketing are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic terracotta! Offer a curated collection of modern planters in unique materials like:

• Concrete and Metal: Industrial chic with clean lines and geometric shapes.
• Ceramic and Stoneware: Timeless elegance with a handcrafted touch.
• Sustainable Materials: Eco-conscious options like recycled plastic, bamboo, or upcycled wood.
• Innovative Designs: Self-watering planters, hanging terrariums, and modular systems for vertical gardens.

Success Mantra: Focus on aesthetics and curation. Partner with local artists and designers for exclusive collections, showcasing India's vibrant talent. Offer a diverse selection of plants to suit different styles and experience levels. Create an inviting and inspiring store or online platform with clear plant care information and styling tips. Leverage social media for stunning visuals, customer testimonials, and plant care tutorials.

Niche Options:

• Miniature Jungle Vibes: Offer terrariums, kokedamas, and miniature gardens for urban dwellers with limited space.
• Desktop Delights: Provide small, stylish planters for workspaces and bedside tables, featuring succulents, air plants, or cacti.
• Plant Parenthood Essentials: Cater to new plant owners with starter kits, easy-care plants, and educational workshops.
• Pet-Friendly Foliage: Offer non-toxic plants and stylish planters suitable for homes with furry friends.

Additional Services:

• Provide plant care consultations and personalized recommendations.
• Offer potting and repotting services for customer convenience.
• Host workshops on plant propagation, terrarium building, or DIY plant stands.
• Partner with local cafes, co-working spaces, or events for pop-up shops and brand awareness.

Upcycled Furniture Design

Breathe New Life into Old: Building a Thriving Upcycled Furniture Design Business

Market: Upcycled furniture is soaring in popularity across India, fueled by sustainability awareness, vintage charm, and unique design possibilities. This market is expected to reach ₹10,000 crore by 2025, offering a fertile ground for creative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial inventory (furniture finds), workshop space, tools, design software, marketing, and branding are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic sanding and repainting!

• Fusion Frenzy: Combine vintage pieces with modern elements like metallic accents, geometric patterns, or pops of color.
• Theme Time: Transform furniture into conversation starters with upcycling projects inspired by movies, historical periods, or local art forms.
• Multifunctional Marvels: Give furniture new life with clever modifications, like ottomans that transform into side tables or dressers with hidden storage compartments.
• Sustainable Sanctuary: Focus on eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, recycled textiles, or salvaged metal for a conscious approach to upcycling.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and storytelling. Choose sturdy furniture with good bones for transformation. Prioritize craftsmanship and meticulous restoration to ensure longevity. Share the story of each piece, highlighting its past and present life, adding emotional value. Leverage social media for captivating before-and-after visuals, customer testimonials, and sneak peeks into your creative process.

Niche Options:

• Mid-Century Modern Revival: Breathe new life into vintage furniture from the 1950s and 60s for design enthusiasts and collectors.
• Bohemian Oasis: Upcycle pieces with natural textures, vibrant colors, and handcrafted touches, catering to bohemian and eclectic style lovers.
• Industrial Edge: Transform salvaged metal, pipes, and wood into unique furniture with a raw, industrial aesthetic.
• Urban Chic: Upcycle vintage suitcases, pallets, or old crates into trendy furniture for apartments and urban spaces.

Subscription Box for Home Decor

Spark Joy with a Box: Building a Thriving Home Decor Subscription Business

Market: Home decor enthusiasts in India are craving curated experiences and personalized touches. Enter the subscription box, a booming market expected to reach ₹5,000 crore by 2025, offering fertile ground for creative entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial inventory (decor items), packaging, platform development, marketing, and fulfillment are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond generic themes! Offer curated boxes based on:

• Interior Styles: Minimalist chic, Bohemian Oasis, Industrial Edge, Vintage Revival.
• Seasonal Delights: Spring pastels, cozy winter accents, vibrant summer colors.
• Local Flavors: Celebrate Indian art forms, festivals, or regional crafts.
• Experiences & Activities: DIY projects, aromatherapy kits, mindfulness rituals for home spaces.

Safety and Ethical Sourcing:

• Emphasize eco-friendly packaging and sustainable materials like recycled paper or biodegradable options.
• Partner with ethical suppliers and artisans who prioritize fair labor practices.
• Ensure all items comply with safety regulations and quality standards.

Success Mantra: Focus on surprise and delight! Send high-quality, unique items that customers wouldn't find elsewhere. Include personalized touches like handwritten notes or curated playlists based on their preferences. Offer flexible subscription options and seamless order fulfillment. Leverage social media for unboxing videos, customer testimonials, and sneak peeks into upcoming themes.

Niche Options:

• Themed Mini-Makeovers: Provide everything needed to transform a specific area, like a cozy reading nook or a vibrant kitchen backsplash.
• DIY Delights: Offer pre-measured materials and easy-to-follow instructions for fun crafting projects like macrame wall hangings or scented candles.
• Global Inspirations: Feature decor items sourced from different countries, highlighting diverse cultural aesthetics.
• Pet-Friendly Homes: Create boxes filled with stylish accessories and treats for pampered furry friends and their human companions.

Services

When considering retail business ideas with low investment and high profit potential, offering services can be a lucrative option.

Pet sitting and dog walking services cater to the growing demand for pet care, while personal errand services provide convenience to busy individuals.

Additionally, mobile device repair, professional organizing, and social media management services address specific needs in today's digital age, making them viable opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Pet Sitting & Dog Walking

Unleash Your Business Potential: Building a Thriving Pet Sitting & Dog Walking Service in India
Market: India's booming pet ownership creates fertile ground for pet-related businesses. With busy lifestyles and rising disposable incomes, pet sitting and dog walking services are in high demand, offering a lucrative path for animal-loving entrepreneurs.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Initial marketing, insurance, equipment (leashes, waste bags), scheduling software, and potential vehicle maintenance are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic walks! Offer diverse services to cater to different needs:

• Puppy Playdates: Group walks for socializing and energetic pups.
• Senior Strolls: Gentle walks and companionship for older dogs.
• Medication Administration: Ensure pets receive vital medications while owners are away.
• Overnight Stays: Provide in-home pet sitting for extended absences.
• Cat Care: Specialized care for feline friends, including litter box cleaning and playtime.

Success Mantra: Focus on trust and reliability. Conduct thorough background checks and pet-sitting training for your staff. Offer meet-and-greets with potential clients and their pets to ensure a comfortable fit. Provide detailed updates and photos during pet stays, building trust and peace of mind for owners. Leverage social media for customer testimonials, adorable pet photos, and tips for pet care.

Niche Options:

• Luxury Pet Pampering: Offer spa treatments, gourmet pet food, and personalized walks in scenic locations.
• Adventure Walks: Hiking, dog park outings, and swimming adventures for active dogs.
• Pet Emergency Response: Partner with veterinarians to provide quick assistance in case of pet emergencies during walks or stays.
• Community-Focused Services: Offer discounted rates for senior citizens or organize pet adoption events to give back to the community.

Personal Errand Service

Conquering Chaos, One Errand at a Time: Building a Thriving Personal Errand Service in India

Market: Indian cities are bustling with busy individuals juggling work, family, and personal commitments. The demand for reliable, efficient errand services is soaring, offering a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs who thrive on organization and problem-solving.

Capital: Low-moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Initial marketing, insurance, vehicle maintenance, mobile technology (scheduling app, GPS), and potential staff training are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic grocery shopping! Offer a diverse range of services tailored to specific needs:

• Time-Crunched Professionals: Dry cleaning, laundry pickup/delivery, bill payments, prescription refills.
• Busy Families: Grocery shopping, meal prep, child pick-up/drop-off, errands for busy parents.
• Tech-Savvy Individuals: Tech support, online shopping assistance, package returns, gadget setup.
• Senior Citizens: Medication refills, doctor appointment support, grocery deliveries, light housekeeping.
• Eco-Conscious Clients: Sustainable errands like organic grocery delivery, carbon-neutral transportation options.

Success Mantra: Focus on convenience and reliability. Offer flexible scheduling options, clear communication throughout the process, and timely errand completion. Leverage technology for efficient scheduling, tracking, and customer updates. Build trust with background checks, insurance coverage, and transparent pricing. Build a strong brand identity that resonates with your commitment to organization and customer satisfaction.

Niche Options:

• Luxury Errand Concierge: Cater to high-end clients with specialized services like art gallery visits, luxury shopping assistance, personalized gift selection and delivery.
• Pet-Focused Errands: Pet food and toy deliveries, dog park visits, vet appointment transportation, pet-sitting add-ons.
• Community-Centered Services: Offer discounted rates for seniors or collaborate with local charities for delivery assistance to underprivileged families.
• Event Errand Support: Provide on-site errand support for event organizers, including vendor deliveries, equipment pickup, and post-event logistics.

Mobile Device Repair

Fix, Refresh, Reimagine: Building a Thriving Mobile Device Repair Business in India

Market: India's mobile-first population creates a massive demand for reliable and accessible mobile device repair services. With rising disposable incomes and technological dependence, this market is expected to reach ₹58,000 crore by 2025, offering a promising path for tech-savvy entrepreneurs.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial inventory (replacement parts, tools, diagnostic equipment), store setup (rent, design), marketing, and certification are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic screen replacements! Offer a comprehensive range of services:

• Software Repair: Diagnose and fix software glitches, viruses, and lagging performance.
• Water Damage Recovery: Salvage devices with proper techniques and specialized tools.
• Battery Replacements: Restore device lifespan with high-quality batteries.
• Data Recovery: Retrieve lost or corrupted data from damaged devices.
• Accessory Sales: Offer a curated selection of phone cases, chargers, and other essentials.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and transparency. Use genuine replacement parts and ensure transparent repair processes with clear communication and customer updates. Offer warranties on repairs and build trust with certifications like CE or ISO. Leverage social media for before-and-after visuals, customer testimonials, and repair tips.

Niche Options:

• Express Repair Service: Cater to on-the-go customers with quick fixes for common issues like screen protectors and battery replacements.
• Premium Repair Solutions: Offer high-end services like micro-soldering, motherboard repair, and data recovery for premium devices.
• Eco-Conscious Repairs: Partner with recycling facilities to responsibly dispose of old batteries and components.
• Unlocking and Roaming Services: Provide assistance with unlocking devices and setting up international roaming for travelers.

Professional Organizer

Organize Your Way to Success: Building a Thriving Professional Organizing Business in India

Market: India's growing awareness of personal and professional well-being fuels the demand for professional organizing services. With cluttered homes and busy schedules, individuals and businesses seek help in creating organized and efficient spaces. This market, expected to reach ₹20,000 crore by 2025, offers a lucrative opportunity for passionate organizers.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial marketing, insurance, organizing tools (bins, labels), transportation, and potential office space are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic tidying! Offer specialized services to cater to diverse needs:

• Residential Organizing: Declutter homes, create functional systems for kitchens, bedrooms, and offices.
• Business & Office Organizing: Streamline workflow, implement document management systems, and optimize workspace layouts.
• Moving & Downsizing: Assist with packing, unpacking, and organizing new spaces during relocation or downsizing.
• Digital Organizing: Declutter desktops, manage email, and organize digital files for improved productivity.
• Life Transitions: Support individuals facing major life changes like divorce, retirement, or new parenthood.

Success Mantra: Focus on empathy and transformation. Listen to clients' needs and goals, understand their emotional connection to their belongings, and create personalized solutions that spark joy and efficiency. Offer ongoing support and coaching to help clients maintain organized spaces after your initial work. Leverage social media for inspiring before-and-after photos, client testimonials, and organizing tips.

Niche Options:

• Eco-Conscious Organizing: Facilitate sustainable decluttering with responsible disposal methods and upcycling ideas.
• Minimalist Makeovers: Help clients embrace minimalist living through decluttering and creating streamlined spaces.
• Luxury Organizing: Offer high-end services like personalized storage solutions, art and antiques arrangement, and wardrobe management.
• Virtual Organizing: Provide online consultations and guidance for clients who prefer remote sessions.
• Community-Focused Services: Offer discounted rates for low-income families or partner with non-profits to declutter community centers.

Social Media Management

Master the Art of Connection: Building a Thriving Social Media Management Business in India

Market: India's booming digital landscape creates a fertile ground for social media expertise. With rising internet penetration and mobile-first users, brands of all sizes crave engaging social media strategies. This market, expected to reach ₹25,000 crore by 2025, offers a lucrative path for passionate social media strategists.

Capital: Moderate (₹5-10 lakh). Initial marketing, software subscriptions (scheduling tools, analytics), equipment (camera, lighting), and potential office space are key costs.

Growth: Go beyond basic posting! Offer comprehensive services that drive results:

• Content Strategy & Creation: Develop engaging and brand-aligned content formats like videos, infographics, and social storytelling.
• Community Management: Foster active conversations, respond to comments, and build a loyal online community.
• Paid Advertising Campaigns: Manage targeted ad campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms for maximum reach and engagement.
• Social Listening & Reporting: Track brand mentions, analyze audience sentiment, and provide actionable insights.
• Influencer Marketing: Identify and collaborate with relevant influencers to amplify brand reach and message.

Success Mantra: Focus on data and results. Track key metrics like engagement, reach, and conversions to demonstrate the value you bring. Become a data-driven storyteller, using insights to inform content strategy and optimize campaigns. Build trust with clients through transparent communication, regular reporting, and a commitment to achieving their goals. Leverage social media platforms to showcase your own expertise, share industry trends, and engage with potential clients.

Niche Options:

• Regional Language Expertise: Cater to brands looking to connect with audiences in specific Indian languages.
• E-commerce Social Media: Develop winning strategies for online retailers to boost sales and drive traffic.
• B2B Social Media: Craft targeted content and engagement strategies for businesses targeting other businesses.
• Micro-influencer Marketing: Identify and manage partnerships with smaller, niche influencers for authentic brand storytelling.
• Social Media Crisis Management: Provide expertise in navigating negative online situations and protecting brand reputation.

Graphic Design & Branding

Unleashing the Power of Design: Building a Thriving Graphic Design & Branding Business in India

India's vibrant and evolving market is ripe for innovative graphic design and branding solutions. With increasing competition and a growing awareness of the power of visual communication, businesses of all sizes are seeking creative expertise to stand out from the crowd. This presents a lucrative opportunity for passionate designers and brand strategists to build thriving businesses.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial costs include software subscriptions (design tools, project management), marketing, equipment (computer, hardware), portfolio development, and potential studio space.

Growth: Go beyond basic logo design! Offer a comprehensive range of services that address diverse client needs:

Brand Identity Design: Craft logos, color palettes, typography, and visual guidelines for a cohesive brand image.
Marketing & Advertising Materials: Design brochures, flyers, website banners, social media graphics, and other marketing collateral.
Packaging Design: Create eye-catching and functional packaging that drives sales and reflects brand values.
UX/UI Design: Develop user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces for websites and mobile applications.
Branding Strategy: Help businesses define their core values, target audience, and unique selling proposition to inform design decisions.
Success Mantra: Focus on storytelling and strategic execution. Understand your client's brand story and target audience, and use your design skills to communicate it effectively. Deliver high-quality work that meets deadlines and exceeds expectations. Build trust through open communication, collaborative processes, and regular progress updates. Leverage social media to showcase your design expertise, client testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process.

Niche Options:

• Local Flavors: Specialize in design solutions that celebrate India's rich cultural heritage and regional aesthetics.
• Sustainability-Focused Design: Offer eco-friendly design practices, recycled paper materials, and packaging solutions that align with clients' sustainability goals.
• Tech-Driven Design: Master the art of user experience design and user interface design for web and mobile applications.
• Small Business Branding: Cater to the needs of startups and small businesses with affordable branding packages and tailored solutions.
• Content Marketing Design: Create visually engaging infographics, social media posts, and other content to support clients' marketing strategies.

Virtual Assistant Services

Be the Right Hand You Need: Building a Thriving Virtual Assistant Business in India

The demand for virtual assistants (VAs) is skyrocketing in India, fueled by busy professionals and entrepreneurs seeking support with administrative, technical, and creative tasks. This market, expected to reach ₹5,000 crore by 2025, offers a lucrative opportunity for individuals with diverse skills and a passion for productivity.

Capital: Low (₹1-5 lakh). Initial costs include marketing, software subscriptions (scheduling tools, communication platforms), and potential equipment (computer, headset).

Growth: Go beyond basic scheduling and email management! Offer a diverse range of services tailored to specific needs:

• Administrative Support: Calendar management, travel arrangements, expense tracking, document handling, data entry.
• Technical Assistance: Website maintenance, social media management, basic coding, online research, project management tools.
• Creative Services: Content writing, editing, graphic design, social media graphics creation, translation.
• E-commerce Management: Product listing, order fulfillment, customer service, marketing support.
• Personal Assistant Services: Errands, appointments, online bill payments, travel research, personal organization.

Success Mantra: Focus on value and efficiency. Understand your client's needs and goals, and offer solutions that free them to focus on their core activities. Deliver high-quality work on time, with excellent communication and proactive problem-solving. Build trust through reliability, confidentiality, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. Leverage online platforms and social media to showcase your skills, client testimonials, and helpful tips for productivity.

Niche Options:

• Industry-Specific VAs: Specialize in supporting clients in specific industries like healthcare, legal, or real estate.
• Multilingual VAs: Cater to clients with international business or communication needs by offering fluency in multiple languages.
• Technical VAs: Focus on providing advanced technical assistance like web development, data analysis, or API integration.
• Creative VAs: Offer expertise in graphic design, content writing, social media marketing, or video editing.
• Virtual Concierge Services: Provide personalized assistance with luxury lifestyle needs like travel arrangements, event planning, or personal shopping.

Personal Training & Fitness Coaching

Unleash Inner Strength: Building a Thriving Personal Training & Fitness Coaching Business in India

India's growing focus on health and wellness fuels a surging demand for personalized fitness guidance. From weight loss to athletic performance, individuals seek expert support to achieve their goals. This market, expected to reach ₹10,000 crore by 2025, offers a promising path for passionate and qualified fitness professionals.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-15 lakh). Initial costs include certifications, gym memberships or studio setup, marketing, equipment (weights, mats), insurance, and potential travel expenses.

Growth: Go beyond generic workout plans! Offer diverse services to cater to specific needs:

• One-on-One Training: Design personalized workout programs, provide exercise technique feedback, and offer motivational support.
• Group Fitness Classes: Lead engaging classes for weight loss, strength training, HIIT, yoga, or functional fitness.
• Specialized Training: Offer programs for pre/postnatal fitness, senior fitness, sports conditioning, or rehabilitation.
• Online Coaching: Provide virtual training sessions, workout plans, and coaching via video calls and fitness apps.
• Nutrition Guidance: Offer basic dietary advice, meal planning tips, and partner with nutritionists for comprehensive support.

Success Mantra: Focus on client-centricity and results. Tailor programs to individual goals, limitations, and preferences. Track progress, celebrate achievements, and adapt plans for continuous improvement. Build trust through empathy, active listening, and open communication. Leverage social media to share inspiring client transformations, fitness tips, and workouts.

Niche Options:

• Corporate Wellness: Partner with companies to provide on-site fitness classes, employee wellness programs, and health workshops.
• Outdoor Fitness: Offer boot camps, hiking groups, or sports conditioning programs in scenic locations.
• Luxury Fitness: Cater to high-end clients with personalized training in private studios, home visits, or luxury fitness centers.
• Pre/Postnatal Fitness: Provide specialized training programs for pregnant or new mothers, focusing on safe and effective exercise.
• Mental Wellness & Fitness: Integrate mindfulness practices, stress management techniques, and mental health awareness into your coaching approach.

Mobile Car Wash & Detailing

Gleaming Rides on the Go: Building a Thriving Mobile Car Wash & Detailing Business in India

Market: India's booming car ownership and busy lifestyles create a fertile ground for convenient car care solutions. Mobile car wash and detailing services offer a promising path for entrepreneurs who want to capitalize on this growing demand for on-demand vehicle care.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial costs include specialized equipment (power washer, vacuum cleaner, detailing tools), water tanks, transportation (truck/van), marketing, insurance, and potential permits/licenses.

Growth: Go beyond basic car washes! Offer a comprehensive range of services to cater to diverse needs:

• Exterior Detailing: Hand washing, waxing, polishing, headlight restoration, wheel and tire cleaning.
• Interior Detailing: Vacuuming, upholstery cleaning, stain removal, carpet shampooing, dashboard and trim cleaning.
• Engine Detailing: Degreasing, cleaning engine components, restoring shine and functionality.
• Paint Protection: Ceramic coating, paint protection film application for long-lasting shine and scratch resistance.
• Eco-Friendly Options: Waterless washes, biodegradable cleaning products, solar-powered equipment.

Success Mantra: Focus on convenience and quality. Offer flexible scheduling options, online booking platforms, and real-time tracking for customer peace of mind. Use high-quality cleaning products, proper techniques, and meticulous attention to detail to ensure a sparkling finish. Build trust through transparent pricing, clear communication, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Leverage social media to showcase before-and-after transformations, customer testimonials, and mobile car wash tips.

Niche Options:

• Luxury Car Detailing: Cater to high-end vehicles with specialized cleaning methods and premium products.
• Pre-Sale Detailing: Help car owners maximize resale value with thorough cleaning and cosmetic restoration.
• Corporate Car Wash Packages: Offer discounted services to businesses with company fleets.
• Event-Based Detailing: Provide convenient car wash services at festivals, sporting events, or corporate gatherings.
• Mobile Mechanic Services: Partner with mechanics to offer basic car maintenance alongside detailing.

Event Planning & Management

From Dream to Reality: Building a Thriving Event Planning & Management Business in India

India's vibrant culture and growing appetite for celebrations fuel a booming event planning and management industry. From intimate weddings to grand conferences, businesses and individuals seek expertise in crafting unforgettable experiences. This market, expected to reach ₹8,000 crore by 2025, offers a promising path for passionate and organized individuals who thrive on creating memorable events.

Capital: Moderate-high (₹15-25 lakh). Initial costs include marketing, equipment (sound system, lighting), software (budgeting, scheduling), potential office space, and initial inventory (décor, props).

Growth: Go beyond basic party planning! Offer diverse services to cater to specific needs:

• Concept & Design: Develop unique event themes, create mood boards, and manage event branding.
• Logistics & Management: Secure venues, manage vendors (caterers, decorators, entertainment), and coordinate event flow.
• Budgeting & Financial Management: Create detailed budgets, manage expenses, and track costs throughout the event planning process.
• Guest Management: Handle invitations, RSVPs, seating arrangements, and guest communication.

**Post-Event ** Send thank you notes, gather feedback, and provide event reports.
Success Mantra: Focus on creativity, organization, and client satisfaction. Be a creative storyteller, translating client visions into impactful experiences. Master project management skills to ensure smooth execution and problem-solving. Build trust through transparency, proactive communication, and exceeding expectations. Leverage social media to showcase your portfolio, client testimonials, and behind-the-scenes event planning insights.

Niche Options:

• Luxury Event Planning: Cater to high-end clientele with bespoke experiences, premium vendors, and meticulous attention to detail.
• Sustainable Events: Offer eco-conscious event planning, using recycled materials, local suppliers, and carbon-neutral practices.
• Themed Events: Specialize in creating immersive experiences like historical reenactments, cultural festivals, or corporate galas.
• Virtual & Hybrid Events: Master the art of planning engaging online and hybrid events for a wider reach and diverse audience.
• Community Events: Organize cultural festivals, charity events, or local gatherings to connect with your community and build a strong reputation.

Tutoring & Educational Services

Unlocking Potential: Building a Thriving Tutoring & Educational Services Business in India

India's booming education landscape creates a fertile ground for innovative and impactful tutoring and educational services. From academic support to skill development, students and individuals seek expert guidance to navigate their learning journey. This market, expected to reach ₹70,000 crore by 2025, offers a promising path for passionate educators and learning enthusiasts.

Capital: Moderate (₹5-15 lakh). Initial costs include marketing, software (online tutoring platforms, learning management systems), equipment (computers, tablets), potential office space, and initial learning materials.

Growth: Go beyond traditional one-on-one tutoring! Offer diverse services to cater to specific needs:

• Subject-Specific Tutoring: Provide personalized support in core academic subjects like Math, Science, English, or Language Learning.
• Test Preparation: Offer specialized coaching for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, UPSC, or SAT.
• Skill Development Programs: Design and deliver workshops or courses on soft skills, digital literacy, financial literacy, or career readiness.
• Online Tutoring & Learning Platforms: Develop or utilize existing platforms to deliver virtual tutoring sessions and online courses.
• Special Needs Education: Provide specialized support for students with learning disabilities, cognitive challenges, or emotional needs.

Success Mantra: Focus on personalized learning and student empowerment. Create customized learning plans, cater to individual learning styles, and track progress to ensure optimal results. Foster a supportive and motivating environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and self-confidence. Leverage technology to personalize learning experiences, enhance engagement, and provide valuable data insights.

Niche Options:

• Early Childhood Education: Design engaging learning programs for preschoolers and kindergarteners, focusing on holistic development and play-based learning.
• Adult Education & Upskilling: Provide job-oriented training programs, professional development courses, or reskilling opportunities for career advancement.
• Accessibility-Focused Education: Develop learning materials and services tailored to individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments, or other disabilities.
• Outdoor & Experiential Learning: Organize field trips, workshops, and immersive learning experiences to complement classroom education.
• Creative & Performing Arts Coaching: Provide specialized instruction in music, drama, dance, or visual arts to nurture artistic talents.

Technology & Online Businesses 

In the modern era, technology and online businesses have become integral to the retail landscape. E-commerce stores offer the opportunity to reach a global customer base, while dropshipping businesses provide a low-risk way to enter the market.

Additionally, print-on-demand services, online course creation, and social media influencing present further avenues for entrepreneurial success in the digital realm.

E-commerce Store

Amidst the evolving retail landscape, e-commerce stores in the technology and online businesses sector present lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs in 2024.

Social media has become an integral part of e-commerce, offering a platform for businesses to engage with their audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales. Utilizing social media effectively can significantly impact the success of an e-commerce store.

Additionally, digital marketing plays a crucial role in the online business realm, enabling e-commerce stores to reach their target market, increase website traffic, and ultimately boost sales. With the right digital marketing strategies, such as SEO, content marketing, and email campaigns, e-commerce businesses can maximize their online presence and attract potential customers.

Embracing these tools and techniques can propel e-commerce stores to new heights of success in 2024.

Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping Dynamite: Igniting Your E-commerce Journey in India

Market: India's e-commerce boom offers fertile ground for dropshipping, a low-risk, low-inventory model that lets you sell products without physically holding them. This market, estimated to reach ₹1.2 lakh crore by 2025, empowers entrepreneurs to launch online stores with minimal upfront investment.

Capital: Low (₹1-5 lakh). Initial costs include marketing, website development, dropshipping platform subscriptions, and potential inventory purchases for testing and branding purposes.

Growth: Go beyond generic products! Find your niche and cater to specific needs:

• Trending Products: Capitalize on current fads and high-demand items like fitness gear, home decor trends, and mobile accessories.
• Local Focus: Offer unique Indian products or cater to regional specialties like handcrafted textiles, artisanal spices, or regional delicacies.
• Sustainable & Ethical: Promote eco-friendly products, support local vendors, and build a brand around conscious consumerism.
• Personalized Products: Offer customization options like phone case printing, engraved gifts, or on-demand apparel printing.
• Subscription Boxes: Curate niche-specific boxes like beauty products, pet supplies, or hobbyist kits for recurring revenue and customer loyalty.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality control and customer experience. Partner with reliable dropshipping suppliers who offer high-quality products, fast shipping, and efficient order fulfillment. Prioritize excellent customer service, including clear communication, timely order tracking, and hassle-free returns. Build trust and transparency with detailed product descriptions, honest reviews, and proactive communication about potential delays.

Niche Options:

• Luxury Dropshipping: Cater to high-end customers with premium products, exclusive brands, and personalized packaging.
• Private Label Dropshipping: Create your own brand by adding logos, packaging, or custom labels to dropshipped products.
• Social Commerce Dropshipping: Leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase products, run targeted ads, and connect with potential customers.
• Micro-Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with niche influencers in your target audience to promote your dropshipping store and reach a wider audience.
• Content-Driven Dropshipping: Create informative and engaging blog posts, videos, or social media content to attract organic traffic and drive sales.

Print-on-Demand Service

Unleash Your Creativity: Building a Thriving Print-on-Demand Service in India

India's growing appetite for personalized and unique products creates a fertile ground for Print-on-Demand (POD) services. This exciting market, expected to reach ₹2,500 crore by 2025, empowers entrepreneurs to turn creative ideas into tangible products without the hassle of inventory management.

Capital: Moderate (₹10-15 lakh). Initial costs include website development, marketing, POD platform subscriptions, samples for quality control, and potential design software or subscriptions.

Growth: Go beyond basic t-shirts! Offer diverse products to cater to various needs:

• Apparel: Expand to hoodies, mugs, phone cases, bags, and more.
• Home Decor: Offer wall prints, posters, throw pillows, and personalized home accessories.
• Stationery: Design notebooks, journals, calendars, and greeting cards.
• Art & Accessories: Provide prints, tote bags, phone grips, and other creative merchandise.
• Corporate & Events: Cater to businesses with branded merchandise, event giveaways, and employee gifts.

Success Mantra: Focus on design and quality. Partner with reliable POD platforms offering high-quality printing, sustainable materials, and fast turnaround times. Invest in creating unique and eye-catching designs, catering to diverse tastes and trends. Prioritize excellent customer service, including clear product descriptions, responsive communication, and efficient order fulfillment.

Niche Options:

• Local & Cultural Designs: Showcase India's rich heritage through traditional motifs, regional art, and cultural icons.
• Sustainable & Eco-friendly: Offer organic fabrics, recycled materials, and ethical printing practices to cater to conscious consumers.
• Community-Focused: Support local artists and designers by featuring their work on your POD platform.
• Fan Art & Licensed Products: Collaborate with artists or brands for exclusive prints, merchandise, and licensed designs.
• Personalized & Customizable: Offer design templates, custom text options, and photo printing for truly unique products.

Online Course Creation

Knowledge Unleashed: Building a Thriving Online Course Business in India

India's booming online education market presents a fertile ground for passionate educators and subject-matter experts to share their knowledge and build successful online course businesses. This market, expected to reach ₹33,000 crore by 2025, empowers individuals to become knowledge entrepreneurs, impacting lives through quality online learning experiences.

Capital: Moderate (₹5-15 lakh). Initial costs include website development, learning management system (LMS) subscription, marketing, content creation tools, and potential equipment (camera, microphone).

Growth: Go beyond traditional lectures! Offer diverse course formats to cater to various learning styles and needs:

• Video-based courses: Engaging video lessons with interactive elements like quizzes, polls, and downloadable resources.
• Micro-learning modules: Bite-sized, focused content for busy learners seeking specific skill development.
• Live workshops and interactive sessions: Foster real-time engagement with students through live Q&A sessions, group projects, and collaborative activities.
• Interactive learning platforms: Utilize gamified elements, simulations, and case studies for a more immersive and engaging learning experience.
• Community building: Create online forums, discussion groups, and social media communities for peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and student engagement. Invest in creating high-quality content that is informative, engaging, and visually appealing. Prioritize student success by providing clear learning objectives, personalized feedback, and ongoing support throughout the course. Utilize interactive elements, storytelling techniques, and practical applications to keep students motivated and invested in the learning process.

Niche Options:

• Skill-based courses: Cater to specific career needs like coding, digital marketing, financial planning, or creative skills.
• Professional certifications: Offer courses that prepare students for industry-recognized certifications or competitive exams.
• Personal development and wellness: Focus on self-improvement, mindfulness, health and fitness, or soft skills development.
• Language learning: Provide courses for learning new languages or improving existing language skills.
• Hobby and passion-based courses: Cater to specific interests like cooking, photography, music, or creative writing.

Social Media Influencer

Rise to Stardom: Building a Thriving Social Media Influencer Career in India

India's vibrant digital landscape offers fertile ground for aspiring social media influencers to cultivate engaged communities, capture brand attention, and build fulfilling careers. With over 1 billion internet users and ever-growing social media penetration, the influencer market is poised to reach ₹20,000 crore by 2025, presenting exciting opportunities for passionate individuals to connect, inspire, and monetize their online presence.

Capital: Low (₹1-5 lakh). Initial investments could include smartphone accessories (ring lights, tripod), content creation tools (editing software, camera equipment), and potentially courses or coaching on influencer marketing.

Growth: Go beyond trendy dances and lip-syncs! Discover your niche and cultivate an authentic voice to attract and retain a loyal audience:

• Lifestyle & Fashion: Share your personal style, beauty tips, travel adventures, or daily routines.
• Comedy & Entertainment: Make people laugh with witty skits, relatable content, or unique parodies.
• Education & Awareness: Advocate for social causes, educate on specific topics, or share informative content in your area of expertise.
• Gaming & Technology: Showcase your gaming skills, review tech products, or build a community around your favorite games.
• Food & Cooking: Share delicious recipes, culinary adventures, or healthy eating tips.

Success Mantra: Focus on authenticity and engagement. Be yourself, share your passions, and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Foster a two-way conversation through polls, Q&A sessions, and direct replies to comments. Create valuable content that informs, entertains, or inspires, building trust and loyalty with your followers.

Niche Options:

• Micro-influencer Focus: Build a dedicated community with 10k-50k followers and target niche brands for collaborations.
• Regional Language & Content: Create content in your local language and cater to specific regional audiences.
• Cause-Based Advocacy: Partner with NGOs or charities to raise awareness and support important causes.
• Live Streaming & Interactive Content: Utilize platforms like Instagram Live or YouTube to engage with your audience in real-time.
• Collaboration & Content Partnerships: Team up with other influencers or brands for cross-promotion and reach a wider audience.

Monetization Strategies:

• Branded collaborations & sponsored content: Partner with relevant brands to promote their products or services to your audience.
• Affiliate marketing: Earn commissions on sales generated through your unique affiliate links.
• Direct advertising: Sell ad space on your social media platforms to brands or businesses.
• E-commerce & product launches: Launch your own products or merchandise leveraging your established audience.
• Live streams & virtual events: Host paid live sessions or workshops to offer exclusive content or services.

Freelance Writing & Editing

Craft Your Words, Shape Your Future: Building a Thriving Freelance Writing & Editing Career in India

India's booming content landscape offers a fertile ground for passionate wordsmiths and meticulous editors to craft compelling narratives, refine expression, and build fulfilling freelance careers. With an estimated market size of ₹4,500 crore by 2025, the demand for skilled freelance writers and editors is soaring, opening exciting doors for individuals who can wield the power of language with precision and creativity.

Capital: Low (₹1,000 - ₹5,000). Initial investments could include a reliable computer, internet access, grammar and style guides, and potentially online writing or editing courses.

Growth: Go beyond generic blog posts and proofreading! Discover your niche and refine your skillset to attract clients and build a strong portfolio:

• Content Writing: Blog writing, website copywriting, social media content, product descriptions, email marketing campaigns, ebooks, and white papers.
• Editing & Proofreading: Copy editing, developmental editing, line editing, proofreading, technical editing, and academic editing.
• Creative Writing: Fiction writing, short stories, novellas, poetry, scripts, song lyrics, and creative marketing content.
• Specialized Writing: Technical writing, legal writing, medical writing, financial writing, grant writing, and research writing.
• Translation & Localization: Translate content between languages or adapt it for specific regional audiences.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and client satisfaction. Deliver polished, error-free work that meets client needs and expectations. Be meticulous, reliable, and responsive to feedback. Build trust through excellent communication, clear deadlines, and proactive project management.

Niche Options:

• Micro-niche expertise: Become a go-to writer or editor for a specific industry or topic (e.g., healthcare, travel, FinTech).
• Local language focus: Cater to the growing demand for content in regional Indian languages.
• SEO & Content Marketing: Master SEO best practices and create content that attracts organic traffic and boosts client websites.
• Content Strategy & Consulting: Offer comprehensive content strategy development and consulting services to businesses.
• Academic & Research Writing: Assist students and researchers with academic writing, research papers, and thesis editing.

Monetization Strategies:

• Freelance platforms & marketplaces: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, and Guru are popular platforms to connect with clients.
• Direct client outreach: Build your network and pitch your services to businesses and individuals directly.
• Content marketing agencies & writing services: Partner with agencies or services to secure consistent writing or editing projects.
• Content creation & subscription services: Offer exclusive content or subscriptions for paid access to your writing or editing expertise.
• Workshops & online courses: Share your knowledge and skills through online or offline workshops or courses.

Virtual Reality Experiences

Immerse and Captivate: Building a Thriving VR Experience Business in India

India's burgeoning VR market presents a fertile ground for entrepreneurs to create immersive, interactive experiences that transport users to new worlds and push the boundaries of reality. With a market expected to reach ₹7,300 crore by 2025, the possibilities are endless for those who can tap into the power of VR to entertain, educate, and inspire.

Capital: Moderate (₹5-15 lakh). Initial investments include VR headsets, software licenses, development tools, marketing materials, and potential physical space for VR experiences.

Growth: Go beyond generic games and simulations! Discover your niche and create VR experiences that resonate with diverse audiences:

• Adventure & Exploration: Transport users to exotic destinations, explore historical landmarks, or embark on thrilling virtual journeys.
• Education & Training: Provide immersive learning experiences in fields like healthcare, engineering, or vocational training.
• Entertainment & Storytelling: Captivate audiences with interactive narratives, theatrical performances, or unique VR games.
• Arts & Culture: Showcase cultural heritage, bring art exhibits to life, or create interactive artistic experiences.
• Fitness & Wellness: Offer VR workouts, meditation sessions, or gamified fitness programs for a more engaging workout experience.

Success Mantra: Focus on quality and user experience. Invest in high-quality VR hardware and software that delivers smooth performance and minimal technical glitches. Design experiences that are intuitive, engaging, and avoid motion sickness or discomfort. Prioritize user safety and provide clear instructions and guidance.

Niche Options:

• Mobile VR Experiences: Target smartphone users with accessible and affordable VR experiences that utilize mobile headsets.
• Location-Based VR: Create immersive VR arcades or entertainment centers for group experiences and social interaction.
• Educational VR Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, universities, or training centers to develop VR learning modules and experiences.
• VR for Mental Health & Wellbeing: Offer VR therapy sessions or programs for stress management, anxiety reduction, and pain management.
• Bespoke VR Experiences: Develop custom VR experiences for brands, events, or corporate training programs.

Monetization Strategies:

• Ticket sales: Charge entry fees for individual or group VR experiences at your location.
• Content licensing: Sell or license your VR experiences to other businesses or platforms.
• Subscription models: Offer monthly or annual subscriptions for access to exclusive VR content or experiences.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with VR hardware companies, software developers, or event organizers for cross-promotion and revenue sharing.
• In-experience advertising: Implement non-intrusive advertising within your VR experiences for additional revenue streams.

Online Gaming Community

Building a Thriving Online Gaming Community in India: Your Guide to Success

India's booming gaming landscape presents a fertile ground for passionate gamers and community builders to create vibrant online communities where players connect, compete, and share their love for games. With an estimated market size of ₹10,000 crore by 2025, the opportunities to build successful online gaming communities are abundant. Here's your guide to success:

Define your niche:

• Game-specific: Cater to a specific game or genre, like PUBG Mobile, esports leagues, or retro gaming enthusiasts.
• Platform-focused: Build a community around a specific platform like Steam, Discord, or mobile gaming.
• Interest-based: Unite players around shared interests like competitive gaming, casual play, or game lore discussions.

Craft an engaging platform:

• Choose the right platform: Discord, Facebook groups, dedicated forums, or custom platforms can all work, depending on your needs and audience.
• Focus on user experience: Ensure your platform is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and equipped with features like chat, voice channels, and event management tools.
• Prioritize content: Encourage members to share gameplay clips, discuss strategies, and create original content like fan art, memes, or guides.
• Organize events and activities: Host tournaments, watch parties, live streams, or online challenges to keep members engaged and foster healthy competition.

Build a strong community culture:

• Set clear guidelines and expectations: Establish rules for respectful communication, content moderation, and fair play.
• Empower your members: Encourage leadership roles, appoint moderators, and give members a voice in shaping the community's direction.
• Recognize and reward members: Highlight achievements, celebrate milestones, and offer incentives for participation and contributions.
• Promote inclusivity and diversity: Foster a welcoming environment for all players, regardless of skill level, background, or gaming preferences.

Monetization strategies (optional):

• Premium memberships: Offer exclusive content, perks, or early access benefits for paid members.
• Partnerships and sponsorships: Collaborate with game developers, esports organizations, or brands for revenue sharing or sponsored events.
• Content monetization: Allow members to sell their own gaming-related content like guides, tutorials, or custom artwork.
• Merchandise and apparel: Create and sell community-branded merchandise to loyal members.

Podcast Creation & Production

From Idea to Airwaves: Your Guide to Podcast Creation & Production in India

India's podcast landscape is brimming with potential, offering a vibrant platform for passionate storytellers and engaging voices to connect with a captivated audience. Whether you're a seasoned broadcaster or a budding podcaster, here's a roadmap to guide you from ideation to production and beyond:

Conceptualize and Niche Down:

• Identify your passion: What topics pique your interest and inspire you? This will fuel your podcast's authenticity and attract like-minded listeners.
• Choose your niche: Narrow down your focus to a specific subject area, demographic, or format (interview, solo, narrative, etc.).
• Develop a compelling hook: Craft a unique selling point that sets your podcast apart in the crowded Indian podcast space.

Craft Your Format and Structure:

• Episode length: Decide on a suitable episode length based on your content and audience preferences (short bursts or in-depth dives).
• Segment structure: Plan your episode flow, incorporating intros, outros, interviews, segments, and music for a dynamic listening experience.
• Theme and branding: Create a consistent visual identity and theme music that resonates with your podcast's personality.

Gearing Up for Production:

• Recording equipment: Invest in high-quality microphones, headphones, and recording software to ensure crisp audio.
• Editing tools: Utilize audio editing software to polish your recordings, remove unwanted noise, and add sound effects.
• Hosting platform: Choose a reliable platform like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, etc., to reach your target audience in India.

Production Process and Workflow:

• Pre-production: Scriptwriting, guest research, interview preparation, and scheduling are crucial for smooth recording sessions.
• Recording: Ensure a comfortable recording environment, utilize proper microphone techniques, and capture high-quality audio.
• Post-production: Edit recordings, add music and sound effects, and finalize your episode for a professional finish.

Building Your Audience:

• Marketing and promotion: Utilize social media, online communities, and relevant platforms to reach your target audience.
• Guest appearances and collaborations: Partner with other podcasters or industry experts to cross-promote and expand your reach.
• Engaging with listeners: Respond to comments, answer questions, and foster a sense of community around your podcast.

Monetization Strategies:

• Sponsorships and partnerships: Collaborate with brands or businesses relevant to your niche for sponsored segments or advertisements.
• Premium content: Offer exclusive bonus episodes, early access, or ad-free listening for paid subscribers.
• Crowdfunding and merchandise: Engage your audience through crowdfunding campaigns or create and sell branded merchandise.

Essential Tips:

• Consistency is key: Maintain a regular release schedule to keep listeners engaged and coming back for more.
• Prioritize quality: Invest in good audio equipment and editing tools for a professional listening experience.
• Engage with your audience: Respond to feedback, host Q&A sessions, and build a loyal community around your podcast.
• Stay informed: Follow podcasting trends, adapt to new technologies, and continuously improve your production and storytelling skills.

Remember, podcasting is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the learning curve, stay passionate about your topic, and connect with your audience through authentic storytelling. With dedication and consistent effort, your podcast can thrive in India's burgeoning audio landscape.

Blogging & Affiliate Marketing

Blogging & Affiliate Marketing: A Powerful Partnership in India

India's digital landscape is booming, and the combination of blogging and affiliate marketing presents a lucrative opportunity for passionate individuals to share their expertise, connect with audiences, and generate income. Here's how you can leverage these powerful tools:

Finding Your Niche:

• Passion first, profit second: Choose a topic you're genuinely interested in and knowledgeable about. Your enthusiasm will shine through and attract like-minded readers.
• Research and refine: Analyze existing blogs in your niche, identify gaps, and refine your focus to stand out.
• Local touch: Consider incorporating India-specific perspectives, cater to regional languages, or focus on topics relevant to your local audience.

Building Your Blog:

• Choose a user-friendly platform: WordPress, Blogger, Wix, etc. offer varying levels of customization and ease of use.
• Prioritize visual appeal: Invest in high-quality images, videos, and a clean, responsive design for a professional look.
• SEO optimization: Use relevant keywords, optimize titles and meta descriptions, and build backlinks to improve your search engine ranking and attract organic traffic.

Crafting Compelling Content:

• Informative and engaging: Offer valuable insights, tips, and actionable advice on your chosen topic.
• Storytelling and humor: Weave personal experiences, anecdotes, and humor into your writing for a more relatable and engaging experience.
• Visual variety: Incorporate infographics, images, videos, and data visualizations to break up text and enhance understanding.
• Consistent publishing: Maintain a regular posting schedule to keep your audience coming back for more.

Integrating Affiliate Marketing:

• Choose relevant products and services: Promote products that genuinely benefit your readers and align with your blog's content and values.
• Transparency is key: Disclose your affiliate partnerships clearly and emphasize the value readers gain by using your links.
• Utilize diverse affiliate tools: Include compelling product descriptions, calls to action, and strategically placed banners or links within your content.
• Track and analyze: Use affiliate program dashboards and analytics tools to measure your performance and optimize your affiliate marketing strategies.

Monetization Strategies:

• Direct advertising: Sell ad space on your blog to relevant brands or businesses.
• Premium content: Offer exclusive blog posts, courses, or ebooks for paid subscribers.
• Consulting and coaching: Leverage your expertise and offer paid consulting or coaching services to your audience.
• Product launches and partnerships: Create and sell your own products or partner with other businesses for co-branded initiatives.

Other Retail Business Ideas

Plant Rental Service

Cultivating Growth: Your Guide to Starting a Plant Rental Service in India

India's growing urban population and increasing awareness of environmental benefits are driving the demand for greenery in homes and offices. This presents a fertile opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch a plant rental service and tap into this burgeoning market. Here's your guide to get started:

Market Research and Niche:

• Identify your target audience: Homes, offices, event spaces, retail stores, or a combination? Understanding your clients' needs and preferences will guide your service offerings.
• Analyze competition: Research existing plant rental services in your area to identify gaps in their offerings and unique selling points for your business.
• Consider local trends: Explore preferences for specific plant types, maintenance needs, and delivery/installation preferences in your region.

Building Your Inventory:

• Choose diverse and attractive plants: Offer a variety of sizes, colors, textures, and light requirements to cater to diverse preferences and spaces.
• Prioritize low-maintenance plants: Focus on resilient species that require minimal care and are suitable for indoor environments.
• Source responsibly: Partner with local nurseries, sustainable growers, or ethical plant suppliers to ensure healthy and environmentally-conscious practices.

Service Offerings and Pricing:

• Rental packages: Design flexible rental options based on plant type, duration, maintenance needs, and delivery/installation costs.
• Additional services: Offer plant styling consultations, maintenance visits, pest control solutions, and seasonal plant rotations for added value.
• Pricing strategies: Consider competitive pricing, bundled packages, and discounts for long-term rentals to attract and retain customers.

Marketing and Branding:

• Develop a strong brand identity: Create a visually appealing logo, website, and social media presence that reflects your service's professionalism and aesthetic.
• Utilize digital marketing: Leverage social media platforms, targeted ads, collaborations with influencers, and content marketing (blog posts, plant care tips) to reach your audience.
• Build partnerships: Network with interior designers, event planners, office management companies, and local businesses for cross-promotion and referral opportunities.

Operational Considerations:

• Logistics and transportation: Ensure reliable vehicles and equipment for efficient delivery, set-up, and retrieval of plants.
• Inventory management: Maintain a system for tracking plant health, rental periods, and maintenance schedules.
• Customer service: Prioritize responsive communication, address concerns promptly, and offer ongoing support to ensure client satisfaction.

Scaling Your Business:

• Expand your inventory: Introduce new plant types, accessories like pots and stands, or offer larger plant installations for corporate clients.
• Partnerships and franchises: Consider collaborating with other businesses or exploring franchise opportunities for wider reach and faster growth.
• Sustainable practices: Implement eco-friendly policies like using recycled materials, minimizing water usage, and offering plant adoption options to enhance your brand value.

Board Game Cafe

Game On! Your Guide to Building a Thriving Board Game Cafe in India

India's growing appetite for leisure and entertainment, coupled with the resurgence of board games, presents an exciting opportunity to create a vibrant hub for playful minds - a board game cafe! Here's your roadmap to success:

Concept and Niche:

• Family-friendly haven: Cater to diverse age groups with a mix of classic and modern board games, ensuring something for everyone.
• Theme and atmosphere: Create a unique ambiance, from cozy and inviting to geek-chic or themed, to differentiate yourself from competitors.
• Local flavor: Incorporate Indian-themed board games or activities to appeal to local sensibilities and foster cultural connection.

Game Collection and Curation:

• Diverse selection: Offer a wide variety of board games based on complexity, player count, and genre (strategy, party games, cooperative, etc.).
• Curated recommendations: Train your staff to recommend games based on player preferences and experience levels.
• Regular updates: Refresh your collection with new releases, trending games, and seasonal favorites to keep regulars engaged.

Food & Beverage:

• Complementary offerings: Provide light bites, snacks, and beverages that pair well with game sessions without distracting players.
• Themed menus or combos: Consider offering themed snacks or drinks inspired by popular board games for an immersive experience.
• Local specialties: Incorporate regional delicacies or street food options to add a touch of local flavor and attract a wider audience.

Events and Activities:

• Game nights and tournaments: Organize regular game nights with specific themes, genres, or competitive tournaments for dedicated players.
• Learn-to-play sessions: Offer introductory sessions for new or unfamiliar games to encourage participation and build a community.
• Special events and collaborations: Host themed events, board game designer meet-ups, or collaborations with local businesses for additional buzz and engagement.

Marketing and Branding:

• Social media presence: Build an active online community on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and local groups to connect with potential customers.
• Eye-catching visuals: Use high-quality photos and videos of your cafe, games, and events to showcase your atmosphere and offerings.
• Partnerships and collaborations: Partner with local game stores, event organizers, or influencers for cross-promotion and reach.
• Loyalty programs and rewards: Implement loyalty programs or reward systems to encourage repeat visits and build customer loyalty.

Operational Considerations:

• Space and layout: Design your space to accommodate different group sizes, provide comfortable seating, and ensure adequate game playing areas.
• Game hygiene and maintenance: Implement cleaning protocols for game pieces and boards to ensure hygiene and longevity.
• Staff training and expertise: Invest in staff training on game rules, recommendations, and customer service to provide an excellent experience.
• Technology integration: Consider offering digital menus, online reservation systems, or board game recommendation apps for added convenience.

Mobile Escape Room

Unlock the Potential: Building a Thriving Mobile Escape Room Business in India

India's growing appetite for interactive experiences and unique entertainment options presents a fertile ground for mobile escape rooms. These portable, immersive puzzles offer a thrilling alternative to traditional escape rooms and cater to diverse event types and locations. Here's your guide to unlock success in the mobile escape room space:

Concept and Game Design:

• Unique themes and narratives: Craft engaging storylines that cater to different interests, like historical mysteries, sci-fi adventures, or local legends.
• Variety of difficulty levels: Offer tiered difficulty levels to cater to both experienced escape room enthusiasts and newcomers looking for a fun challenge.
• Scalability and adaptability: Design games that can be easily set up and dismantled in various locations, accommodating different group sizes and spaces.

Equipment and Technology:

• High-quality puzzles and props: Invest in durable, interactive elements that create a believable atmosphere and provide a satisfying challenge.
• Lighting and sound effects: Utilize soundtracks, lighting changes, and other immersive elements to enhance the game's atmosphere and tension.
• Digital components (optional): Consider incorporating tablets or apps with clues, timers, or scoring systems for a modern twist.

Target Audience and Marketing:

• Corporate events and team building: Offer customized escape room experiences for corporate clients, fostering teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Private parties and celebrations: Cater to birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or family gatherings with themed escape rooms for a unique and memorable experience.
• Festivals and public events: Partner with event organizers to set up mobile escape rooms at festivals, fairs, or promotional events to attract a wider audience.
• Social media marketing: Utilize relevant platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to showcase your escape rooms, game themes, and customer experiences.
• Partnerships and collaborations: Team up with local businesses, event spaces, or travel agencies to reach new audiences and expand your booking potential.

Operational Considerations:

• Logistics and transportation: Ensure efficient transport and set-up of your mobile escape room equipment, including backup plans for unforeseen circumstances.
• Safety and security: Prioritize participant safety by implementing clear instructions, emergency procedures, and proper equipment maintenance.
• Customer service: Train your staff to be friendly, helpful, and provide excellent customer service throughout the experience.
• Flexibility and adaptability: Be prepared to adapt your set-up and game flow based on different locations and unforeseen challenges.

Pet Bakery

Unleashing Woof-derful Treats: Your Guide to Opening a Thriving Pet Bakery in India

India's growing love for furry friends and increasing awareness of pet health are paving the way for delicious and healthy pet bakeries. Here's your roadmap to opening a thriving haven for happy pups and purring pals:

Concept and Niche:

• Focus on healthy & natural ingredients: Prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and avoid artificial additives, preservatives, and harmful chemicals.
• Cater to diverse dietary needs: Offer gluten-free, grain-free, vegan, and allergy-friendly options for dogs, cats, and small animals.
• Unique offerings and local twist: Go beyond basic biscuits and cookies. Consider themed treats, seasonal specials, or even custom-baked cakes. Incorporate Indian flavors or ingredients for a unique touch.

Menu and Product Development:

• Variety is key: Offer a wide range of treats in different sizes, textures, and flavors to cater to different palates and preferences.
• Consult with experts: Work with veterinarians or animal nutritionists to ensure your treats are healthy and balanced for pets.
• Appealing visuals and branding: Invest in attractive packaging and branding that reflects your bakery's values of health, quality, and fun.

Production and Sourcing:

• Focus on fresh and homemade: Prioritize fresh baking over mass production to maintain quality and ensure your treats are full of love.
• Local and sustainable sourcing: Partner with local farms and suppliers for fresh ingredients and support sustainable practices.
• Hygiene and safety: Implement strict sanitation procedures and follow food safety guidelines to ensure the well-being of your furry customers.

Marketing and Customer Engagement:

• Social media and online presence: Build an active online community on Instagram, Facebook, etc., showcasing your treats, happy customers, and behind-the-scenes peeks.
• Collaborations and partnerships: Partner with pet stores, animal shelters, or dog training facilities for cross-promotion and increased visibility.
• Events and workshops: Organize cake decorating classes, dog treat tastings, or educational workshops on pet nutrition to engage customers and build loyalty.

Operational Considerations:

• Location and accessibility: Choose a location convenient for pet owners, with ample parking or delivery options.
• Pet-friendly atmosphere: Create a welcoming and safe space for pets, with water bowls, play areas, and friendly staff.
• Licensing and regulations: Obtain necessary permits and licenses to operate a food business, adhering to all health and safety regulations.
• Customer service and expertise: Train your staff on pet nutrition, different dietary needs, and answer questions from pet owners confidently.

Customizable Phone Wallpapers

Unleash the Creativity: Building a Thriving Customizable Phone Wallpaper Business in India 

India's vibrant smartphone culture and growing demand for personalization present a fertile ground for businesses offering customizable phone wallpapers. Here's your guide to creating a thriving platform where users can design their own dream screens:

Differentiate Your Niche:

• Theme-based collections: Offer curated collections of wallpapers based on popular themes like nature, travel, minimalism, pop culture, or even local Indian motifs.
• Interactive design tools: Develop user-friendly tools for color adjustments, pattern creation, and text overlays to empower users to personalize existing designs.
• Collaboration with artists: Partner with Indian artists and designers to offer unique, high-quality artwork as wallpaper options, promoting local talent and catering to diverse tastes.

Building Your Platform:

• Responsive mobile app or website: Prioritize a user-friendly interface optimized for mobile devices for seamless browsing and design creation.
• High-resolution images and graphics: Utilize high-quality images and graphics to ensure crisp visuals and a premium user experience.
• Seamless download and sharing: Offer easy options for downloading wallpapers in various sizes and resolutions, and integrate social sharing features.

Monetization Strategies:

• Freemium model: Offer a basic selection of wallpapers for free, with premium collections or exclusive artist collaborations available for purchase.
• Subscription plans: Provide monthly or annual subscription tiers for unlimited access to premium content, design tools, or early access to new releases.
• In-app purchases: Allow users to purchase individual wallpapers or design elements to add flexibility and cater to different budgets.
• Partnerships and collaborations: Partner with phone case brands, mobile service providers, or content creators for cross-promotion and revenue sharing opportunities.

Marketing and User Acquisition:

• Social media presence: Build an active community on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, showcasing user-designed wallpapers, hosting design challenges, and engaging with potential customers.
• Influencer marketing: Collaborate with Indian tech influencers or phone reviewers to promote your platform and reach a wider audience.
• App store optimization (ASO): Utilize relevant keywords and app store optimization strategies to improve your platform's visibility in app stores.
• Content marketing: Create blog posts, tutorials, and design tips related to phone wallpapers to attract organic traffic and establish your brand as an authority in the space.

Zero-Waste Grocery Store

Cultivating Sustainability: Your Guide to Building a Thriving Zero-Waste Grocery Store in India 

India's growing environmental consciousness and awareness of plastic pollution are creating fertile ground for innovative businesses like zero-waste grocery stores. These eco-friendly havens offer a sustainable shopping experience, reducing waste and promoting responsible consumption. Here's your guide to cultivate a thriving zero-waste grocery store in India:

Concept and Niche:

• Bulk and package-free options: Prioritize loose-grain staples, dry goods, fresh produce, and cleaning supplies offered in bulk, eliminating packaging waste.
• Local sourcing and seasonal focus: Partner with local farmers and producers to offer fresh, seasonal produce and reduce transportation emissions.
• Community focus and educational initiatives: Organize workshops, cooking demonstrations, and educational events to promote sustainable practices and conscious consumption among customers.

Product Mix and Sourcing:

• Essential groceries and household items: Focus on everyday essentials like grains, legumes, spices, oils, cleaning products, and personal care items to cater to diverse needs.
• Reusable containers and accessories: Offer a variety of reusable bags, containers, jars, and utensils for customers to bring and minimize single-use plastics.
• Locally-made and eco-friendly alternatives: Stock eco-friendly cleaning products, sustainable paper products, and locally-made reusable items to support local businesses and reduce waste.

Operational Considerations:

• Logistics and storage: Implement efficient systems for bulk product storage, dispensing, and refilling to ensure smooth operations and minimize food waste.
• Hygiene and safety: Maintain strict hygiene protocols for bulk dispensers, cleaning procedures, and pest control to ensure food safety and customer confidence.
• Technology and inventory management: Utilize digital scales, barcode scanners, and inventory management software to streamline operations and track product availability.
• Community engagement and partnerships: Collaborate with local farmers' markets, environmental organizations, and waste management companies to promote sustainability and build a supportive network.

Marketing and Customer Acquisition:

• Social media and online presence: Build an active online community on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, showcasing your zero-waste philosophy, product offerings, and sustainable tips.
• Local partnerships and events: Partner with local businesses, eco-friendly cafes, or community centers for cross-promotion and events to reach a wider audience.
• Loyalty programs and incentives: Offer rewards for customers who bring their own containers, refill regularly, or participate in community initiatives.
• Focus on convenience and affordability: Ensure competitive pricing, convenient store hours, and delivery options to attract customers who may be hesitant about traditional zero-waste shopping.

DIY Craft Kits

Crafting Creativity: Your Guide to Launching a Thriving DIY Craft Kit Business in India

India's growing love for DIY projects and creative expression presents exciting opportunities for businesses like yours. Here's your roadmap to launching a thriving DIY craft kit business that sparks imagination and ignites creativity:

Concept and Niche:

• Focus on diverse interests: Cater to various age groups and interests with kits for jewelry making, painting, pottery, candle making, embroidery, woodworking, or even themed kits inspired by Indian festivals or cultural crafts.
• Unique selling proposition (USP): Define your niche. Offer pre-cut materials for convenience, focus on eco-friendly or locally sourced materials, or prioritize educational value with kits designed for specific skills or age groups.
• Local flavor: Incorporate Indian themes, motifs, or materials in your kits to stand out and appeal to a local audience.

Kit Design and Content:

• High-quality materials: Ensure your materials are durable, safe, and easy to use, catering to both beginners and experienced crafters.
• Clear and concise instructions: Provide detailed, step-by-step instructions with photos or videos for a seamless crafting experience.
• Customization options: Offer variations or add-on kits to allow customers to personalize their projects and add their own creative touch.

Marketing and Sales Strategies:

• Social media presence: Build an active community on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, etc., showcasing completed projects, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into your creative process.
• Collaborations and partnerships: Partner with craft stores, online marketplaces, DIY bloggers, or event organizers to reach a wider audience and secure sales opportunities.
• Subscription boxes: Consider offering monthly or quarterly subscription boxes with themed kits or surprise projects to keep customers engaged and coming back for more.
• Workshops and events: Organize workshops or DIY events to teach specific skills, promote your kits, and build a community around your brand.

Operational Considerations:

• Sourcing and inventory management: Secure reliable suppliers for materials, maintain efficient inventory management systems, and avoid stockouts.
• Packaging and branding: Invest in attractive and eco-friendly packaging that reflects your brand identity and protects your materials.
• Customer service and support: Offer prompt and helpful customer service to address inquiries and provide support throughout the crafting process.
• Sustainability practices: Implement eco-friendly practices like using recycled materials, minimizing waste, and offering refillable options to align with your brand values.

Second-Hand Book Shop

Turning Pages, Turning Profits: Your Guide to Building a Thriving Second-Hand Book Shop in India

India's rich literary heritage and growing appetite for affordable reading fuel the vibrant market for second-hand books. Here's your roadmap to building a thriving haven for bibliophiles and bargain hunters alike:

Concept and Niche:

• Genre specialization: Focus on a specific niche like fiction, non-fiction, children's books, vintage editions, or rare finds to attract dedicated customers.
• Curated collection: Go beyond random assortments. Offer hand-picked, high-quality books in good condition, reflecting your taste and expertise.
• Local flavor: Incorporate Indian literature, regional languages, and books about India's history and culture to cater to a local audience.

Sourcing and Inventory Management:

• Diverse acquisition channels: Partner with individuals, estate sales, libraries, or other second-hand book shops to secure a steady flow of diverse titles.
• Fair pricing and condition assessment: Implement a transparent pricing system based on book condition, rarity, and market value.
• Effective inventory management: Utilize software or organize your collection by genre, author, or publication date for easy search and display.

Shop Atmosphere and Experience:

• Warm and inviting ambiance: Create a cozy and welcoming space with comfortable seating, good lighting, and shelves brimming with books.
• Themed sections and displays: Organize books by genre, author, or even create thematic displays to pique customer interest and encourage browsing.
• Community events and book clubs: Host author talks, book readings, or book club meetings to foster a sense of community and attract book enthusiasts.

Marketing and Outreach:

• Active social media presence: Showcase your curated collection, share interesting book finds, and engage with book lovers on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
• Local partnerships and collaborations: Partner with libraries, cafes, or cultural institutions to host book events, cross-promote your shop, and reach new audiences.
• Online presence and e-commerce: Consider setting up an online store or listing your books on platforms like Amazon or Flipkart to expand your reach and cater to customers who prefer online shopping.

Operational Considerations:

• Legalities and licensing: Ensure you obtain necessary licenses and permits to operate a second-hand book shop in your area.
• Book restoration and repair: Offer basic book repair services like dust jacket repair or minor page tears to enhance the value and appeal of your collection.
• Technology and point-of-sale systems: Invest in a point-of-sale system for efficient transactions and inventory management.
• Sustainability practices: Implement eco-friendly practices like using recycled paper bags, sourcing locally, and donating unsold books to libraries or charities.

Local Artisans Market

Craft a Thriving Hub: Your Guide to Building a Local Artisans Market in India

India's rich heritage of traditional crafts and growing appreciation for handmade goods offer fertile ground for vibrant local artisans markets. Here's your guide to crafting a successful platform that empowers artisans, connects them with customers, and celebrates the beauty of Indian craftsmanship:

Concept and Niche:

• Focus on local artisans and traditions: Partner with artisans from your region or specific communities, showcasing their unique skills and preserving cultural heritage.
• Diverse product range: Offer a variety of handcrafted items, from textiles and jewelry to pottery, woodwork, and home décor, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
• Themed markets or curated collections: Organize themed markets based on festivals, seasons, or specific crafts to create unique experiences and attract a wider audience.

Venue and Ambiance:

• Authentic and vibrant location: Choose a space that reflects the local culture, like a historical building, open courtyard, or traditional market setting.
• Create a welcoming atmosphere: Decorate with local motifs, provide comfortable seating areas, and ensure proper lighting and ventilation for a pleasant shopping experience.
• Accessibility and convenience: Consider factors like parking, public transportation access, and clear signage to make the market easily accessible for visitors.

Artisans Support and Empowerment:

• Fair trade and ethical practices: Ensure fair compensation for artisans, prioritize sustainable sourcing, and promote responsible production practices.
• Skill development and workshops: Organize workshops or training sessions for artisans to learn new techniques, improve product quality, and adapt to market trends.
• Marketing and branding support: Assist artisans with product labeling, storytelling, and online presence to help them reach a wider audience.

Customer Engagement and Experience:

• Interactive and informative stalls: Encourage artisans to interact with customers, demonstrate their skills, and explain their creative process.
• Live music and cultural performances: Integrate local music, dance, or storytelling into the market experience to enhance the cultural immersion.
• Workshops and educational activities: Offer hands-on workshops or demonstrations for children and adults to learn basic crafting skills and appreciate the value of handmade work.

Marketing and Outreach:

• Social media and online presence: Create a dedicated page or website for your market, showcasing artisans, products, and events to build a digital community.
• Collaborations and partnerships: Partner with local businesses, tourism agencies, or cultural institutions for cross-promotion and increased visibility.
• Community engagement: Organize events, participate in local festivals, and collaborate with NGOs to connect with the community and promote the market's values.

Operational Considerations:

• Legalities and permits: Obtain necessary permits and licenses for operating a market in your location.
• Stall management and logistics: Develop a system for stall allocation, rent collection, and ensuring fair representation of diverse artisans.
• Security and infrastructure: Ensure proper security measures, hygiene facilities, and waste management practices for a safe and comfortable environment.
• Sustainability practices: Implement eco-friendly measures like waste reduction, recycling, and promoting locally-sourced materials to align with your values.

Mobile Pet Grooming Service

Unleashing Convenience: Building a Thriving Mobile Pet Grooming Service in India

India's growing pet population and busy lifestyles create a fertile ground for mobile pet grooming services. Here's your guide to unleashing a successful business that pampers pups and purrs right at their doorstep:

Concept and Niche:

• Convenience is key: Focus on providing a stress-free, door-to-door grooming experience for pet owners with busy schedules or transportation limitations.
• Tailored services: Offer a range of grooming packages for different breeds, coat types, and needs, from basic baths and haircuts to deep conditioning treatments or flea/tick removal.
• Specialization and niche expertise: Consider focusing on specific areas like geriatric pet care, puppy grooming, or even mobile dog washing stations for larger breeds.

Mobile Unit and Equipment:

• Invest in a well-equipped van or trailer: Ensure ample space for grooming, storage, and waste disposal. Equip it with generators, water tanks, professional tools, and a comfortable grooming station for pets.
• Safety and sanitation: Prioritize hygiene and safety with proper ventilation, temperature control, non-slip surfaces, and easy-to-clean equipment.
• Environmentally friendly practices: Utilize eco-friendly grooming products, water conservation methods, and responsible waste disposal practices to align with your values.

Target Audience and Marketing:

• Busy pet owners: Focus on professionals, families with young children, or pet owners with mobility limitations who value convenience and time-saving services.
• Partnerships and collaborations: Partner with pet stores, veterinary clinics, or dog walkers to reach a wider audience and secure referrals.
• Social media and online presence: Build a strong online presence on Instagram, Facebook, and local platforms, showcasing your services, happy pets, and customer testimonials.
• Offer loyalty programs and referral incentives: Encourage repeat business and attract new customers through loyalty programs, discounts, and referral bonuses.

Operational Considerations:

• Scheduling and appointment management: Implement a user-friendly booking system for online or phone appointments, ensuring timely scheduling and efficient workflow.
• Pricing and packages: Offer competitive pricing and package options to cater to different budgets and pet needs. Be transparent about fees and travel charges.
• Pet safety and first aid: Ensure your staff is trained in pet handling, first aid, and emergency procedures to prioritize animal safety and well-being.
• Legalities and licensing: Obtain necessary permits and licenses for operating a mobile business and ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations.

Community Garden & Food Sharing

Cultivating Connection & Sharing Bounty: Your Guide to Building a Thriving Community Garden & Food Sharing Initiative

Combining the joy of gardening with the power of community, a community garden and food sharing initiative can be a vibrant hub for growing healthy food, fostering connection, and reducing food waste. Here's your guide to cultivating a thriving space that nourishes both the body and the soul:

Concept and Design:

• Location and accessibility: Choose a central, accessible location with ample sunlight and space for various plots and communal areas.
• Plot allocation and diversity: Offer a variety of plot sizes and options (individual, shared, raised beds) to cater to different needs and abilities.
• Focus on sustainability: Utilize organic gardening practices, composting, rainwater harvesting, and water-efficient methods to promote environmental responsibility.

Building Community and Engagement:

• Open volunteer opportunities: Encourage participation through volunteer days, workshops, and educational sessions on gardening, composting, and food preservation.
• Community events and gatherings: Organize potlucks, harvest festivals, or cooking demonstrations to celebrate the bounty and foster a sense of belonging.
• Skill-sharing and knowledge exchange: Create a platform for experienced gardeners to share their knowledge with newcomers and foster intergenerational learning.

Food Sharing and Distribution:

• Establish a food sharing system: Designate a central area or "sharing table" where gardeners can contribute their surplus produce for anyone to take freely.
• Partner with local organizations: Collaborate with food banks, shelters, or soup kitchens to distribute excess produce to those in need, reducing food waste and supporting the community.
• Promote mindful harvesting: Encourage responsible harvesting practices to ensure sustainable yields and fair distribution amongst participants.

Operational Considerations:

• Governance and decision-making: Establish a clear structure for decision-making, involving participants in setting rules, resolving conflicts, and planning future initiatives.
• Resource management and maintenance: Secure funding for tools, equipment, and upkeep, and involve volunteers in maintaining the garden and shared spaces.
• Legal and safety considerations: Understand local regulations for community gardens, ensure proper insurance coverage, and prioritize safety measures like clear pathways and signage.

How do you determine the best small business idea for you?

Determining the best small business idea for you requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Identify your skills and interests: Make a list of your skills, expertise, and areas of interest. Consider what you enjoy doing and what you excel at. This will help you narrow down potential business ideas that align with your strengths.

2. Research market trends and demands: Conduct thorough market research to identify current trends, demands, and gaps in the market. Look for opportunities where your skills and interests can meet market needs.

3. Assess your target audience: Determine who your target audience will be for your small business. Understand their needs, preferences, and purchasing behavior. This will help you tailor your business idea to meet their demands.

4. Evaluate competition: Study your potential competitors in the market. Assess their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning. Look for ways to differentiate your business idea and offer a unique value proposition.

5. Consider financial feasibility: Evaluate the financial aspects of your business idea. Determine the startup costs, potential revenue streams, and profitability. Ensure that your idea is financially viable and sustainable in the long run.

6. Seek feedback and advice: Share your business idea with trusted friends, family, or mentors. Seek their feedback and advice on the feasibility and potential of your idea. Their insights can provide valuable perspectives and help you refine your concept.

7. Test and validate your idea: Before fully committing, consider testing your business idea on a small scale. This could involve conducting a pilot project, offering samples or prototypes, or conducting market surveys. Collect feedback and assess the response to validate the viability of your idea.

8. Reflect on personal goals: Consider how your small business idea aligns with your personal goals, such as work-life balance, income potential, and long-term aspirations. Ensure that your chosen idea supports your overall vision and objectives.

 

In the high-fashion world, long brand names are not just a trend but a symbol of the rich heritage and unique identity of the labels. This exploration into the longest names among top fashion brands reveals the stories behind these monikers, which range from classic French couturiers to contemporary American designers. Such names in the fashion industry, including those of clothing brands with notably long titles, offer more than a label; they encapsulate a brand's legacy and its profound impact on global fashion trends.

Hermés Paris - Chapeaux pour Dames et Messieurs

With a significant 45-character name, Hermés Paris - Chapeaux pour Dames et Messieurs is a revered French luxury brand that encapsulates elegance and a rich heritage in hatmaking. The influence of French heritage on Hermés is evident in its meticulous craftsmanship, steeped in a tradition of excellence that has been passed down through the generations. This proud lineage, coupled with a commitment to innovation, has allowed Hermés to maintain its position at the forefront of the luxury fashion industry.

Much like the popular Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana, which is renowned for its bold and glamorous designs, Hermés has also made a significant impact in the world of high fashion. However, where Dolce & Gabbana pushes boundaries with audacious creativity, Hermés is recognized for its understated elegance and timeless appeal, which are key hallmarks of French design. This juxtaposition has allowed Hermés to carve out a unique niche in the market.

In essence, Hermés Paris - Chapeaux pour Dames et Messieurs, much like its name, is a blend of tradition and innovation, a testament to the enduring allure of French luxury fashion.

Brunello Cucinelli Solomeo 1985

Occupying a revered place in the world of Italian luxury fashion, Brunello Cucinelli Solomeo 1985 showcases unrivaled craftsmanship and a rich heritage rooted in its namesake village. The evolution of Brunello Cucinelli's craftsmanship in Solomeo has been a journey of sartorial excellence, preserving traditional techniques while embracing innovation.

From the initial focus on cashmere knitwear, the brand gradually expanded to a full-fledged luxury fashion line, each piece reflecting the meticulous attention to detail and devotion to quality synonymous with the Cucinelli name.

The impact of Italian heritage on the success of luxury brands like Brunello Cucinelli cannot be overstated. The brand's rootedness in Solomeo, a small Italian village, adds a layer of authenticity and prestige. The village not only gives the brand its name, but also embodies the values and traditions that underpin its ethos.

This strong connection with its heritage has allowed Brunello Cucinelli to create a unique identity in the luxury fashion market, blending age-old Italian craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Italian elegance and the power of a compelling story woven into the fabric of a brand.

Dolce & Gabbana

Transitioning from the restrained elegance of Brunello Cucinelli Solomeo 1985, we venture into the flamboyant world of Dolce & Gabbana, an Italian luxury brand known for its audacious and glamorous designs. The impact of Dolce & Gabbana's bold and glamorous designs on the fashion industry is undeniable, with their expressive style and high-quality craftsmanship setting trends and redefining luxury.

The brand's fearless approach to fashion, combining traditional Italian design with modern sensibilities, continually challenges and excites the industry. They are not afraid to take risks, often bringing together contrasting elements in a harmonious blend that is quintessentially Dolce & Gabbana. Their daring aesthetic has influenced countless designers and shaped countless collections worldwide.

Exploring the popularity and appeal of Dolce & Gabbana's brand among celebrities and influencers, it's clear that their audacity resonates with those who desire to make a statement. Their creations are a staple on red carpets, worn by stars who appreciate the brand's ability to translate their personalities into breathtaking ensembles. With each design, Dolce & Gabbana continues to assert its profound influence and dominance in the world of high fashion.

Valentino Garavani

Valentino Garavani, commonly known as Valentino, is an Italian fashion designer and the founder of the Valentino SpA brand. Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Italy, Valentino is renowned for his contributions to the fashion industry, particularly in luxury couture.

Some key points about Valentino Garavani include:

1. Early Career: Valentino began his fashion career in the 1950s, working for several notable designers in Paris and London.

2. Valentino SpA: In 1960, Valentino opened his own fashion house in Rome, Italy, under the name Valentino SpA. The brand quickly gained recognition for its elegant and luxurious designs.

3. Signature Style: Valentino is celebrated for his timeless and sophisticated designs, often characterized by red dresses, intricate embroidery, and attention to detail. The brand became synonymous with high-end, glamorous fashion.

4. Red Valentino: The iconic "Valentino Red" became a signature color for the brand and is often associated with Valentino's elegant and romantic designs.

5. Valentino Retires: In 2007, Valentino announced his retirement from the fashion industry. His final haute couture show took place in Paris, marking the end of an era.

6. Creative Directors: After Valentino's departure, the brand has had various creative directors, including Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, who have continued to uphold the brand's legacy while bringing their own perspectives to the designs.

7. Legacy: Valentino's contributions to fashion have earned him numerous awards and accolades. His legacy is deeply rooted in the world of haute couture and luxury fashion.

The Kooples New York

The Kooples New York is a renowned fashion brand that was founded in the year 2008 by three brothers, Alexandre, Laurent, and Raphaël Elicha. Originally hailing from France, the brand quickly expanded its presence to the United States, opening its flagship store in New York City. The Kooples New York offers a range of high-quality and contemporary fashion products for both men and women. Known for its edgy and stylish designs, the brand specializes in clothing, footwear, and accessories that exude a mix of rock 'n' roll and Parisian chic.

The Kooples New York has gained a strong reputation for its attention to detail and craftsmanship, creating pieces that effortlessly combine elegance and rebellion. In recent years, the brand has collaborated with various artists and designers, including Emily Ratajkowski, Zayn Malik, and the Rolling Stones, adding a unique touch to their collections and further establishing their presence in the fashion industry.

The English Cut Clothing Company of Savile Row

One of the longest-named contemporary brands, The English Cut Clothing Company of Savile Row, carries a rich history and an unwavering commitment to sartorial excellence. This brand stands as the epitome of British tailoring, renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship, timeless designs, and deep-rooted respect for tradition. What makes The English Cut Clothing Company unique is its dedication to creating garments that encapsulate the quintessential characteristics of English tailoring, such as impeccable fit, refined elegance, and superior quality.

In stark contrast to the restrained and classic aesthetic of The English Cut, Dolce & Gabbana's bold and glamorous designs set them apart. The Italian fashion house is known for its audacious use of prints, flamboyant embellishments, and dramatic silhouettes—elements that are markedly absent in The English Cut's offerings. While Dolce & Gabbana pushes boundaries with its daring creations, The English Cut preserves the timeless appeal of classic tailoring.

Both brands, although differing in style and approach, are united by their unwavering focus on quality, craftsmanship, and distinctive identities—qualities that have helped them secure their places in the pantheon of influential fashion brands.

Helmut Lang at David Jones

Helmut Lang is a renowned fashion brand that can be found at David Jones, one of Australia's leading department stores. The brand was founded in 1986 by the Austrian fashion designer Helmut Lang. Born in Vienna, Austria, Lang quickly gained recognition for his minimalist and avant-garde designs. The brand's offerings include a wide range of high-quality clothing, accessories, and footwear for both men and women. Helmut Lang is known for its clean lines, innovative designs, and use of luxurious fabrics.

In recent years, the brand has collaborated with various artists and designers, such as Hood by Air and Travis Scott, to create unique and fashion-forward collections. These collaborations have allowed Helmut Lang to stay at the forefront of the fashion industry and continue to push boundaries.

Helmut Lang's minimalist aesthetics and innovative designs have been a perfect fit for David Jones' high-end customer base, elevating their fashion offerings and adding a fresh contemporary edge.

In turn, David Jones has provided Helmut Lang with a prestigious platform to reach a wider audience in Australia and beyond. This partnership has clearly demonstrated how collaboration can be a powerful strategy in the fashion industry, enhancing brand visibility and market reach.

The rise of avant-garde fashion has been a significant trend in the industry, with brands like Off White c/o Virgil Abloh leading the way in the streetwear sector. Helmut Lang at David Jones has tapped into this movement, showing how high-end department stores can successfully incorporate cutting-edge designs into their offerings.

The success of this collaboration is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships and the enduring appeal of avant-garde fashion.

Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh

Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh is a luxury fashion brand founded by Virgil Abloh in 2012. The brand is known for its streetwear-inspired designs and its signature use of diagonal stripes and quotation marks. Off-White offers a range of clothing, accessories, and footwear for both men and women.

To purchase Off-White products, you can visit the official Off-White website or browse through authorized retailers. The brand has flagship stores in major cities around the world, including Milan, London, New York, and Tokyo. Additionally, you can find Off-White items at selected department stores and high-end fashion boutiques.

When purchasing Off-White products, it's important to ensure that you are buying from authorized sources to avoid counterfeit items. Authentic Off-White products are known for their quality and attention to detail.

What makes Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh unique is its ability to reinterpret classic designs through an urban lens. The brand's signature use of quotation marks and diagonal stripes has become an iconic part of its identity, creating a visual language that is instantly recognizable and distinctly Off-White.

Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh has significantly influenced streetwear fashion by challenging the boundaries between luxury and casual wear. Its collaborations with brands like Nike and IKEA further accentuate this fusion, blending functionality with high fashion aesthetics.

Abloh's approach, which he termed as 'streetwear in the age of Instagram', has opened up new dialogues in fashion about authenticity, culture, and the power of branding. This ability to disrupt, innovate, and inspire has made Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh a formidable force in the fashion industry.

Alexander McQueen

British fashion house Alexander McQueen, renowned for its theatrical runway shows and avant-garde designs, has etched a lasting mark on the global fashion industry. The brand draws its unique aesthetic from the creative mind of its late founder, Alexander McQueen, whose personal experiences and views on life and death significantly inspired his designs.

McQueen's work was often seen as a commentary on the socio-political climate, with collections touching on themes such as mental health, mortality, and the environment. His fearless exploration of such subjects through fashion was innovative, pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.

Alexander McQueen's influence on the fashion industry has been profound. His brand has championed the unconventional, encouraging designers to experiment with form, colour, and texture. McQueen's enduring legacy is seen in the continued success of his brand, now under the creative direction of Sarah Burton. Despite his untimely passing, his ethos of creating thought-provoking, beautifully crafted pieces lives on, ensuring the continued relevance and influence of the Alexander McQueen brand. His unique perspective and brave approach to design have cemented his name, and that of his brand, in fashion history.

Topshop Topman

Operating under the umbrella of the Arcadia Group, Topshop Topman stands as an influential player within the realm of fast-fashion, noted for its trendy offerings that cater to both men and women. The evolution of Topshop Topman's branding strategy has been a key driver in ensuring its relevance and popularity among its target audience.

Originally established as a youth-oriented brand, Topshop Topman has gradually shifted its focus towards a broader demographic. This strategic move has seen the brand's offerings diversify, encompassing a wider range of styles and trends. The impact of this evolution on their target audience has been significant, with the brand establishing a solid customer base that spans various age groups and fashion preferences.

Drawing parallels, the influence of streetwear culture on the success of The Kooples New York is apparent. The Kooples, similar to Topshop Topman, has capitalized on the popularity of urban and edgy fashion. Their incorporation of streetwear elements into their collections has resonated well with their customers, contributing greatly to their market performance.

As such, both brands have successfully leveraged cultural trends to enhance their appeal and maintain their position in the fashion industry.

Victoria's Secret PINK

Victoria's Secret PINK, a popular brand among young women, was founded in the year 2002 by Leslie H. Wexner. This American-based brand is a subsidiary of Victoria's Secret and has gained immense popularity for its youthful and trendy offerings. Victoria's Secret PINK offers a wide range of products, including lingerie, loungewear, sleepwear, activewear, and accessories.

The brand aims to cater to the younger demographic with its vibrant colors, playful designs, and comfortable fits. Known for its iconic use of the color pink, Victoria's Secret PINK has become synonymous with a fun and carefree lifestyle. In recent years, the brand has collaborated with various influential figures and brands, such as singer Ariana Grande and fashion label Balmain, creating limited edition collections that have been highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts.

Transitioning from streetwear to lingerie, Victoria's Secret PINK represents an intriguing facet of the fashion industry with its youthful and playful approach. By introducing a fresh, vibrant, and youthful perspective to the lingerie industry, the brand has redefined the market for a younger demographic. It has successfully managed to blend comfort with style, making lingerie more accessible and appealing to its younger consumers.

The influence of Victoria's Secret PINK on the lingerie industry cannot be overstated. It has single-handedly managed to carve out a niche for itself by targeting a segment often overlooked by other brands. The brand's success has prompted other labels to follow suit, leading to a significant shift in the industry's approach to designing and marketing lingerie.

Conclusion

In the world of fashion, the length and distinctiveness of a brand name often hold a unique story and significance, reflecting the brand's identity, heritage, or creative direction. The impact of long brand names on brand recognition and memorability is considerable, often setting such brands apart in the densely populated fashion landscape. With longer monikers, these brands have created a unique space for themselves, making them easily identifiable and memorable.

The role of brand storytelling in creating a strong brand identity for fashion brands with long names is crucial. Each word in their lengthy names carries a story, which is interwoven with the brand's identity. This not only helps in establishing a connection with the target audience but also resonates with the brand's core values. These narratives, embedded in the brand names, offer a glimpse into the brand's journey, design philosophy, and aesthetic sensibilities.

To conclude, fashion brands with lengthy names have successfully turned what could be considered a branding challenge into an opportunity. By leveraging their unique names and the stories they tell, these brands have carved a distinctive niche for themselves in the competitive world of fashion.

 

India's fitness industry is booming, driven by a growing awareness of health and an increase in disposable income. This surge has created a high demand for top-tier gym equipment, resulting in the emergence of various brands catering to diverse user needs. Despite facing challenges such as a heavy reliance on imports and a lack of standardization, the market presents significant opportunities for both established players and new entrants.

In this article, we'll provide an in-depth review of the top 10 gym equipment brands in India. We'll analyze factors like product diversity, quality, innovation, cost-effectiveness, and customer feedback, empowering potential buyers and fitness enthusiasts to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

Best Gym Equipment Brands in India

1. Viva Fitness: Among Best Gym Equipment Brands in India

Country & City: India, Jalandhar

Established Date: 1997

Key Products: Strength Training Equipment, Cardio Machines, Functional Training Equipment

Description: Viva Fitness is a leading Indian brand known for its innovative fitness solutions. Its product range includes strength training equipment, cardio machines, and functional training equipment, all designed to cater to the evolving needs of fitness enthusiasts. Viva Fitness's commitment to innovation and quality craftsmanship has earned it a reputation for excellence in the Indian fitness industry.

Take Away Note: Viva Fitness offers innovative gym equipment designed to cater to the evolving needs of fitness enthusiasts, ensuring an exceptional workout experience.
USP: Innovation and quality craftsmanship in fitness solutions.

2. KFS Fitness: Workout with Top Gym Equipment Brands

Country & City: India, Bangalore

Date: 2005

Key Products: Strength Training Equipment, Cardio Machines, Group Exercise Equipment

Description: KFS Fitness is dedicated to empowering every workout with its diverse range of gym equipment. From strength training equipment to cardio machines and group exercise equipment, KFS Fitness offers solutions for every fitness need. With a focus on quality, durability, and user satisfaction, KFS Fitness is a trusted name in the Indian fitness community.

Take Away Note: KFS Fitness offers a diverse range of gym equipment designed to empower every workout, ensuring maximum satisfaction for users.

3. Fitness World: Fitness Partner Among Top Gym Equipment Brands

Country & City: India, Ludhiana

Established Date: 1988

Key Products: Cardio Machines, Strength Training Equipment, Fitness Accessories

Description: Fitness World has been a reliable fitness partner for Indian consumers for over three decades. Its product range includes cardio machines, strength training equipment, and fitness accessories, all designed to provide users with the tools they need to achieve their fitness goals. Fitness World's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has made it a trusted choice for fitness enthusiasts nationwide.

Take Away Note: Fitness World offers a wide range of gym equipment and accessories designed to help users achieve their fitness goals with confidence and convenience.

4. Lifelong: Fitness for Life with Best Gym Equipment Brands

Country & City: India, Delhi

Established Date: 2013

Key Products: Home Gym Sets, Treadmills, Exercise Bikes

Description: Lifelong is dedicated to nurturing fitness for life with its range of home gym sets, treadmills, exercise bikes, and more. Designed to provide convenience and affordability, Lifelong's products cater to individuals looking to kickstart their fitness journey from the comfort of their homes. Lifelong's commitment to quality and accessibility has made it a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts across India.

Take Away Note: Lifelong offers affordable and convenient gym equipment solutions designed for individuals looking to kickstart their fitness journey at home.

5. Kore: Fitness with Top Gym Equipment Brands

Country & City: India, Mumbai

Established Date: 2016

Key Products: Home Gym Equipment, Strength Training Accessories, Yoga and Pilates Gear

Description: Kore is on a mission to redefine fitness with its range of home gym equipment, strength training accessories, and yoga and Pilates gear. Designed to cater to the modern fitness enthusiast, Kore's products combine functionality with style, making workouts enjoyable and effective. Kore's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has earned it a loyal following among fitness enthusiasts nationwide.

Take Away Note: Kore offers stylish and functional gym equipment and accessories designed to make fitness a seamless part of everyday life.

6. Afton: Visions with Top Gym Equipment Brands

Country & City: India, Chennai

Established Date: 1988

Key Products: Treadmills, Cross Trainers, Exercise Bikes

Description: Afton offers a versatile range of gym equipment catering to diverse fitness goals, empowering users to take control of their fitness journey. Its product lineup includes treadmills, cross trainers, and exercise bikes, all designed with quality and user experience in mind. Afton's commitment to versatility and reliability has made it a trusted choice for fitness enthusiasts across India.

Take Away Note: Afton offers a versatile range of gym equipment designed to cater to diverse fitness goals, ensuring a rewarding user experience.

7. Avon Fitness: Leading Performance in Gym Equipment

Country & City: India, Mumbai

Established Date: 1992

Key Products: Strength Training Equipment, Cardio Machines, Accessories

Description: Avon Fitness is known for its indigenous manufacturing capabilities and customer-centric approach, offering cutting-edge equipment tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market. Its product range includes strength training equipment, cardio machines, and accessories, all crafted with precision and attention to detail. Avon Fitness's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a leader in the Indian fitness landscape.

Take Away Note: Avon Fitness offers cutting-edge gym equipment tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market, thanks to its indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

8. PowerMax Fitness: Lifestyles with Best Gym Equipment

Country & City: India, Mumbai

Established Date: 1994

Key Products: Treadmills, Elliptical Trainers, Multi-Functional Trainers

Description: PowerMax Fitness is a trailblazer in the Indian fitness industry, offering a comprehensive range of equipment designed to inspire and motivate. Its product lineup includes treadmills, elliptical trainers, and multi-functional trainers, all crafted with innovation and user satisfaction in mind. PowerMax Fitness empowers users to achieve their fitness goals with confidence, thanks to its commitment to quality and customer-centric approach.

Take Away Note: PowerMax Fitness offers comprehensive gym equipment designed to inspire and motivate users on their fitness journey

Kamachi: Fitness Solutions with Top Gym Equipment Brands

Country & City: India, Chennai

Established Date: 1996

Key Products: Home Gyms, Strength Training Equipment, Accessories

Description: Kamachi is known for its precision engineering and ergonomic design, offering gym equipment that seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics. Its product range includes home gyms, strength training equipment, and accessories, all designed to provide users with a rewarding fitness experience. Kamachi's focus on quality craftsmanship and user comfort has made it a trusted name in the Indian fitness industry.

Take Away Note: Kamachi's precision engineering and ergonomic design set it apart, offering gym equipment that seamlessly blends functionality with aesthetics.

10. Cosco: Trusted Companion in Fitness with Best Gym Equipment

Country & City: India, Delhi

Established Date: 1980

Key Products: Treadmills, Exercise Bikes, Strength Training Equipment

Description: Cosco has been a household name in India for decades, known for its affordable yet high-quality fitness equipment. Its product range includes treadmills, exercise bikes, and strength training equipment, catering to a wide range of fitness needs and preferences. Cosco's commitment to affordability without compromising on quality has made it a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.

Take Away Note: Cosco offers affordable yet high-quality gym equipment accessible to all, making fitness more attainable for everyone.

Factors to Consider when choosing a Gym Equipment Brand

When selecting a gym equipment brand, several crucial factors should be taken into account to ensure you're making the right choice for your fitness facility or personal needs. Here are some key considerations:

1. Look for brands known for their high-quality equipment that can withstand heavy usage over time. Durable equipment reduces maintenance costs and ensures a consistent workout experience for users.
2. Assess the brand's product portfolio to ensure it offers a comprehensive range of equipment that meets your specific requirements. Whether you need cardio machines, strength training equipment, or accessories, choose a brand that offers a diverse selection to cater to all fitness needs.
3. Opt for brands that prioritize innovation and incorporate cutting-edge technology into their equipment. Features like interactive displays, virtual training programs, and personalized workout tracking enhance the user experience and keep workouts engaging and effective.
4. Consider the overall user experience provided by the brand's equipment. Look for user-friendly designs, ergonomic features, and intuitive interfaces that make workouts comfortable and hassle-free for users of all fitness levels.
5. Safety should always be a top priority when selecting gym equipment. Ensure that the brand adheres to industry standards and regulations for safety, and look for features like emergency stop buttons, adjustable settings, and ergonomic designs to minimize the risk of injuries.
6. Check the warranty coverage offered by the brand to safeguard your investment against any manufacturing defects or malfunctions. Additionally, assess the brand's customer support services, including installation, maintenance, and repair options, to ensure prompt assistance when needed.
7. While price is an important factor, prioritize value over cost alone. Consider the long-term benefits and ROI offered by the equipment in terms of durability, performance, and user satisfaction, rather than solely focusing on upfront expenses.
8. Research the brand's reputation in the fitness industry and read reviews from other users or fitness professionals to gauge the quality and performance of its equipment. A positive reputation and glowing testimonials are indicative of a brand's reliability and trustworthiness.
9. If you have specific requirements or preferences for your fitness facility, consider brands that offer customization options or tailor-made solutions to meet your needs. This allows you to create a unique and personalized workout environment that aligns with your vision.
10. In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, prioritize brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Look for certifications or initiatives promoting energy efficiency, recycling, and eco-conscious materials to minimize your environmental footprint.

Conclusion:

Indian gym equipment brands are making significant strides in the fitness industry, offering innovative solutions that cater to the diverse needs of fitness enthusiasts across the country. From strength training equipment to cardio machines and accessories, these brands are committed to providing high-quality products that empower users to lead healthier lives. As the fitness industry continues to evolve, these Indian brands will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.

 

In the professional world, a well-fitted formal shirt is a wardrobe essential. Whether you're dressing for an important business meeting or a formal event, the right shirt can make all the difference. India boasts a plethora of brands offering high-quality formal shirts that combine style, comfort, and elegance. In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 best formal shirt brands in India, highlighting their unique offerings and why they stand out in the market.

What Makes a Great Formal Shirt Brand?

A great formal shirt brand combines quality materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and a keen eye for style. The best brands offer a variety of fits, styles, and colors to suit different preferences and body types. They also prioritize comfort and durability, ensuring that their shirts are not only stylish but also practical for everyday wear.

Check More: Top 10 Men's Formal Wear Brands in India

Top 10 Formal Shirt Brands in India

In the rich world of Indian fashion, finding the perfect formal shirt is now easier thanks to a wide array of distinguished brands. Each brand has its own story of exceptional quality and design. In this section, you'll discover the top ten formal shirt brands in India, celebrated for their unique blend of elegance and fashion.

1. Raymond

Raymond is a name that has been synonymous with fine quality and style in India for decades. Their formal shirts are crafted from premium fabrics and exhibit a level of detail that appeals to professionals across the country.

Brand Overview: Raymond is a household name in India, synonymous with fine fabrics and impeccable tailoring. The brand has a long-standing reputation for excellence in formal wear, positioning it as one of the top men's formal shirt brands.

Key Products/Services: Raymond offers a wide array of formal shirts, from classic whites to sophisticated patterns. Their collection caters to a broad range of tastes and preferences.

Market Position and Reputation: Raymond is highly regarded for its quality fabrics and meticulous craftsmanship. The brand is a top choice for discerning professionals.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Raymond's commitment to quality and precision tailoring sets it apart, making their shirts a worthy investment for any wardrobe.

Store Locations and Availability: Raymond products are available in their exclusive showrooms, as well as online on major e-commerce websites.

Promotions and Discounts: Look out for seasonal sales and special promotions for great deals on Raymond shirts.

Latest News: Raymond frequently updates its collection to reflect the latest fashion trends, ensuring their customers are always in style. Raymond's Latest Trends

Contact Information: Visit the Raymond website for customer service details or to find a store near you, or contact them at [email protected].

2. Louis Philippe

Louis Philippe stands out with its sophisticated and elegant designs, making it a top choice for formal wear. The brand combines tradition with modernity, offering shirts that suit various formal settings.

Brand Overview: Louis Philippe is synonymous with luxury and premium quality. The brand offers an exquisite range of formal shirts that exude sophistication and class, making it one of the top men's formal shirt brands in India.

Key Products/Services: Louis Philippe's collection features a variety of formal shirts, including premium cotton and silk blends, designed for the modern gentleman.

Market Position and Reputation: The brand is highly esteemed for its luxurious fabrics and elegant designs, making it a favorite among high-end professionals.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Louis Philippe stands out for its luxurious offerings and attention to detail, ensuring a superior wearing experience.

Store Locations and Availability: Available in exclusive Louis Philippe stores and online on luxury fashion platforms.

Promotions and Discounts: The brand occasionally offers promotions, especially during festive seasons and exclusive events.

Latest News: Louis Philippe consistently introduces new designs that align with global fashion trends, keeping their collection fresh and appealing. Louis Philippe's Latest Collection

Contact Information: Visit the Louis Philippe website for more information or to contact their customer service at [email protected].

3. Van Heusen

Van Heusen is known for its contemporary fashion and superior quality. Their formal shirts are designed to offer both style and comfort, making them a favorite among young professionals.

Why Van Heusen is Best:

• Modern Designs: Van Heusen provides up-to-date styles that appeal to a younger demographic.
• Comfortable Fabrics: Their shirts are made from breathable materials that are perfect for long office hours.
• Versatile Options: The brand offers a variety of colors and patterns to choose from.

Unique Points:

• Innovative fabric technologies for added comfort.
• Regular collaborations with fashion designers.
• Known for its sleek and modern aesthetic.

4. Peter England

Peter England combines affordability with quality, providing a wide range of formal shirts that are perfect for everyday wear. The brand is known for its reliable quality and accessible pricing.

Brand Overview: Peter England is known for offering high-quality formal wear at affordable prices. The brand is a popular choice among young professionals, making it one of the best formal shirt brands for men seeking style and value.

Key Products/Services: Peter England's formal shirt collection includes a variety of styles, fits, and colors, catering to both conservative and trendy tastes.

Market Position and Reputation: The brand is well-regarded for providing value-for-money products without compromising on quality or style.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Peter England offers stylish and well-constructed shirts that are accessible to a wide audience, making it a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.

Store Locations and Availability: Available in standalone stores, major retail chains, and online platforms.

Promotions and Discounts: Frequent discounts and offers make Peter England an attractive choice for shoppers looking for good deals.

Latest News: The brand continuously updates its collection with fresh designs, appealing to the dynamic preferences of modern professionals. Peter England's New Arrivals

Contact Information: For more details, visit the Peter England website or contact their customer service at [email protected].

5. Arrow

Arrow is a brand with a rich heritage of innovation and style. Their formal shirts are known for their well-crafted designs and impeccable finish, making them a preferred choice for many.

Brand Overview: Arrow is a pioneer in the formal wear segment, known for its classic designs and superior quality. The brand has a rich history and a strong presence in the Indian market, making it one of the best formal shirt brands for men.

Key Products/Services: Arrow offers an extensive range of formal shirts, including tailored fits and innovative non-iron shirts, perfect for busy professionals.

Market Position and Reputation: Arrow is highly respected for its commitment to quality and timeless designs. The brand is a favorite among those who appreciate classic formal wear with a modern twist.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Arrow's non-iron shirts are a game-changer for professionals who need to look sharp without spending extra time on ironing.

Store Locations and Availability: Arrow shirts are available in their standalone stores, as well as in major retail outlets and online platforms.

Promotions and Discounts: The brand offers attractive deals during sales events, providing excellent value for high-quality products.

Latest News: Arrow regularly launches new collections that incorporate contemporary trends while maintaining their classic appeal. Arrow's New Collection

Contact Information: For more information, visit the Arrow website or reach out to their customer service at [email protected].

6. Allen Solly

Allen Solly brings a touch of modernity to formal wear with its stylish designs. The brand is known for its innovative approach, offering formal shirts that are both fashionable and versatile.

Why Allen Solly is Best:

• Innovative Designs: Allen Solly's contemporary styles make formal wear interesting.
• Comfortable Wear: Their shirts are designed for comfort without sacrificing style.
• Wide Range: The brand offers a diverse collection suitable for various formal occasions.

Unique Points:

• Bold use of colors and patterns.
• Focus on casual-formal hybrids, suitable for modern offices.
• Known for breaking the monotony of traditional formal wear.

7. Blackberrys

Blackberrys is known for its sleek and contemporary designs, making it a popular choice for formal shirts that stand out. The brand focuses on creating stylish options for the modern man.

Why Blackberrys is Best:

• Modern Styles: Blackberrys offers up-to-date designs that appeal to fashion-conscious individuals.
• Quality Materials: Their shirts are made from high-quality fabrics that ensure comfort.
• Distinctive Look: The brand provides shirts that are perfect for making a statement.

Unique Points:

• Emphasis on sharp, tailored fits.
• Regular introduction of new styles and trends.
• Strong focus on urban and sophisticated looks.

8. Park Avenue

Park Avenue offers a blend of classic and modern styles, ensuring that their formal shirts cater to a wide audience. The brand is synonymous with quality and reliability.

Why Park Avenue is Best:

• Classic and Modern: Park Avenue combines traditional and contemporary styles.
• Reliable Quality: The brand is known for its consistent quality and durability.
• Versatile Collection: Park Avenue offers a variety of styles to suit different preferences.

Unique Points:

• Strong brand presence and recognition.
• Focus on professional attire that transitions well from day to night.
• Known for innovative designs that balance classic and contemporary.

9. Zodiac

Zodiac is celebrated for its attention to detail and high-quality fabrics, providing formal shirts that are both elegant and durable. The brand's commitment to excellence makes it a top choice.

Why Zodiac is Best:

• Detailed Crafting: Zodiac focuses on intricate details that enhance the overall look.
• High-Quality Fabrics: The brand uses premium materials for added comfort and longevity.
• Elegant Designs: Zodiac offers sophisticated styles that are perfect for formal settings.

Unique Points:

• Signature collections that highlight detailed craftsmanship.
• Use of luxurious fabrics for a premium feel.
• Regularly updates styles to reflect current trends.

10. John Players

John Players combines youthful energy with classic styles, offering a range of formal shirts that are perfect for the modern professional. The brand is known for its trendy and vibrant designs.

Why John Players is Best:

• Youthful Appeal: John Players is popular among younger professionals for its trendy designs.
• Vibrant Styles: The brand offers a range of colors and patterns that stand out.
• Comfort and Style: John Players shirts are designed to be both comfortable and stylish.

Unique Points:

• Focus on trendy, youthful designs.
• Wide range of styles that cater to different fashion preferences.
• Known for its vibrant and eye-catching patterns.

Each of these brands brings something unique to the table, ensuring that you'll find the perfect formal shirt to elevate your wardrobe in 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which of These Brands Offer the Widest Variety of Sizes for Formal Shirts?

You're asking about which brands offer a wide size range for formal shirts. Considering brand popularity, quality factors, and fabric options, Raymond stands out. It's renowned for its vast size variety catering to diverse customers.

Are Any of These Brands Particularly Known for Their Sustainable or Ethically-Sourced Materials?

Yes, some brands are recognized for their sustainable manufacturing processes, ethical labor practices, and eco-friendly packaging. They're committed to reducing environmental impact while still producing top-quality formal shirts.

What Are the Price Ranges for the Formal Shirts From Each of These Brands?

You're asking about price ranges. It varies, considering fabric quality comparison, brand popularity analysis, and formal shirt durability. Still, generally, you could expect to spend anywhere from ₹800 to ₹5000 per shirt in India.

Do These Brands Offer Shirts That Require Minimal Ironing or Are Wrinkle-Resistant?

Yes, many brands offer shirts requiring minimal ironing or are wrinkle-resistant. It's part of their fabric quality comparison. This feature improves shirt longevity and formal shirt comfortability, making them a great choice for busy individuals.

What Kind of Warranty or Return Policies Do These Shirt Brands Have?

You'd need to check each brand's policy clarity for warranty or return details. Online purchase returns vary, as do in-store exchange procedures. It's essential to understand these before making a purchase.

Conclusion

So, you've seen the top formal shirt brands in India. Whether it's Louis Philippe's class or Van Heusen's style, Park Avenue's sophistication or John Players' variety, there's something for everyone.

Don't forget Peter England, Blackberrys, and Flying Machine for their unique blends of fashion and comfort. Lastly, Fab India's ethnic twist on formal wear is worth a try too.

No matter your preference, you're sure to find your perfect shirt from these top brands.

 

Imagine sipping on a glass of Amrut's single malt whisky, relishing in its rich flavors. Now picture this: you're about to explore 40 best alcohol brands in India, from exquisite whiskies to refreshing beers.

You'll dive into the world of both international and local brands that have shaped India's diverse alcohol market. Despite various state policies and social attitudes, these brands have managed to not only create a niche but also redefine consumer preferences.

So, get ready to discover the taste, the tradition, and the innovation that make up India's vibrant alcohol industry.

This isn't just a list; it's an invitation to a flavorful voyage.

Alcohol Market in India

You're about to navigate the vibrant landscape of India's alcohol market. It's a rapidly evolving industry, fueled by changing social norms, increasing disposable income, and urbanization.

From market size and growth, key players and trends, to challenges and future outlook, let's get you acquainted with the ins and outs of this dynamic market.

Market Size and Growth

As you delve into the Indian alcohol market, it's crucial to understand that it's one of the largest in the world. It is estimated at US$52.4 billion in 2021 and projected to boom to US$111.2 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.33%. This growth is driven by factors such as rising incomes, changing lifestyles, and increasing urbanization.

The top alcohol brands in India contribute significantly to this growth, with their diverse and appealing offerings. Furthermore, the market's expansion is propelled by the strategies of top liquor companies in India, who continually innovate and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Their efforts, coupled with a burgeoning consumer base, are set to keep the Indian alcohol market in a steady upward trajectory.

Market Segmentation

In understanding the alcohol market in India, it's essential to know it's segmented into various categories, with whisky, rum, and beer being the prominent ones. Whisky leads with over 60% share, resonating with the tastes of many Indians. Rum has a significant presence, especially in the coastal regions and the south. Beer, though smaller in comparison, is the fastest-growing segment. Other spirits, such as vodka and gin, also have a presence.

Market segmentation offers a clear view of the landscape where top alcohol brands compete. This understanding can help you, as a consumer, to navigate through the options. It also aids businesses in crafting strategies to capture a slice of this burgeoning market.

Key Players and Trends

Let's delve into the key players and prevailing trends in India's alcohol market.

Pernod Ricard and Diageo are two international heavyweights with a strong presence. However, don't overlook the influence of top alcohol companies in India like United Spirits, Radico Khaitan, and Amrut Distilleries, who are giving stiff competition with their power-packed brands.

One of the key trends you're seeing is the shift towards premium brands. Consumers aren't shying away from shelling out more for better quality and branded alcohol.

Craft alcohol, with its unique and locally-produced appeal, is also gaining traction.

Additionally, online alcohol sales are on the rise, offering you convenience and a wider selection at your fingertips.

These key players and trends are shaping the future of India's alcohol market.

Challenges and Complexities

Navigating the Indian alcohol market isn't without its challenges and complexities, particularly when it comes to strict regulations and varying policies across states. It's a mixed bag, where the alcohol brands in India must adhere to a maze of state-specific laws and high taxes, constraining their reach and profitability.

It's not just about the legalities, though. You're dealing with societal stigmas around alcohol consumption in certain regions, which can impact market penetration. Affordability becomes another issue as high taxes and excise duties elevate prices.

Future Outlook

Despite the challenges you're facing, the future of the alcohol market in India looks promising, with a strong growth trajectory predicted over the coming years. The best alcohol brands are expected to innovate, providing premium and customized options. This is due to rising disposable income and evolving consumer preferences.

Here's a snapshot of the future outlook:

Top 10 International Alcohol Brands in India

Now, let's turn your attention to the top international alcohol brands that have captivated the Indian market.

Names like Dewar's, Black Dog, and Johnnie Walker Black Label might ring a bell. They, along with Chivas Regal and Ballantine's, make up a part of the top 10 list we're about to explore.

Dewar's

In your exploration of India's vibrant alcohol market, you'll find Dewar's, a renowned international brand, solidly positioned in the top ten list. This Scottish whisky brand is among the best alcohol in India, owing to its smooth taste, quality, and consistency.

Dewar's has successfully blended into the Indian culture, catering to the sophisticated palate of the Indian whisky lovers. It's not just a brand, but a testimony to the evolving tastes of Indian consumers who appreciate international alcohol brands.

Offering a range of aged whiskies, Dewar's has carved a niche for itself in the Indian alcoholic beverage market. So, if you're looking for an international touch in your drink, Dewar's is a go-to brand in India.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Black Dog

If you're seeking a truly distinctive whisky experience, you can't overlook Black Dog, another international brand that has made its mark in India's top ten. This renowned Scotch whisky, one of the best liquor in India, is known for its rich, matured flavor and smooth finish.

Whether you're a whisky connoisseur or just starting to explore, Black Dog is a must-try. The fantastic blend of malts and grains makes it stand out among popular liquor brands. It doesn't just offer a drink, but an experience that takes you through a voyage of exquisite flavors.

It's not surprising to see why Black Dog continues to hold its own in a market bustling with countless liquor brands. So next time you're in the mood for a fine whisky, consider Black Dog.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 42.8%

Johnnie Walker Black Label

After savoring the smooth finish of Black Dog, your next stop on best alcoholic drinks exploration should be Johnnie Walker Black Label. This internationally acclaimed whisky is one of the top liquor brands in India, recognized for its rich, complex flavor and iconic square bottle. Johnnie Walker Black Label is a blend of about 40 whiskies, each aged at least 12 years. It has a uniquely smoky finish that sets it apart from other whiskies.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Johnnie Walker Red Label: 40% ABV
• Johnnie Walker Black Label: 40% ABV
• Johnnie Walker Double Black: 40% ABV
• Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve: 40% ABV
• Johnnie Walker Platinum Label: 40% ABV
• Johnnie Walker Blue Label: 40% ABV

Enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Johnnie Walker Black Label never disappoints.

Chivas Regal

Continuing your journey through India's favored alcohol drink names, you'll find Chivas Regal holds a prominent spot in the top ten international alcohol brands. This Scotch whisky, known as one of the richest and most indulgent blended Scotch whiskies, has won the hearts of Indian consumers.

The alcohol brand name, Chivas Regal, is synonymous with luxury and quality. This brand offers a variety of aged whiskies including the 12, 18, and 25-year-old blends. Each one is unique, with the 18-year-old blend being particularly admired for its complex flavors.

If you're looking for a sophisticated drink, Chivas Regal is a great choice. Its popularity in India is testament to the country's appreciation for high-quality international spirits.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Ballantine's

Next on the list of top international alcohol brand names in India, you'll find the distinguished Scotch whisky, Ballantine's. This whisky, steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, holds a significant place among the best alcohol in India.

Ballantine's, renowned for its rich, smooth and complex character, offers a range of expressions that cater to diverse palates. You'll find the Ballantine's Finest, a refined blend of malt and grain whiskies, and the Ballantine's 12-year-old, an elegant, creamy and complex whisky that's a favourite among connoisseurs.

The brand's commitment to quality and consistency has earned it countless accolades and a loyal following. So, if you're exploring the world of whisky, you can't go wrong with Ballantine's – it's a testament to the best that Scotch whisky has to offer.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Teacher's Highland Cream

Diving deeper into the realm of international alcohol brands in India, you'll definitely encounter Teacher's Highland Cream, a standout among the top alcohol brands in india.

Hailing from Scotland, this whisky has earned its place as one of the best tasting alcohol in India, boasting a unique blend of over 30 malt and grain whiskies. Its rich, full-bodied flavor, marked by fruity hints and smoky undertones, has won the hearts of many.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Teacher’s Highland Cream: 40% ABV
• Teacher’s 50: 50% ABV
• Teacher’s Origin: 40% ABV
• Teacher’s Golden Thistle 12-Years-Old Islay Cask Finish: 40% ABV

The brand's consistent quality and distinctive taste make it a popular alcoholic drink in India, enjoyed neat, over ice, or in cocktails. So, if you're exploring the Indian alcohol scene, Teacher's Highland Cream is a must-try.

It's not just a brand; it's an experience that reflects India's love for fine spirits.

Seagram's 100 Pipers Deluxe

Often, you'll find Seagram's 100 Pipers Deluxe on the list of top-shelf favorites in India, as it's renowned for its smooth and rich flavor profile. This brand is a leading name among alcoholic beverages brands, offering an unparalleled taste experience that appeals to refined palates.

As a part of Seagram's international portfolio, 100 Pipers Deluxe exudes a luxurious aura, underlining its status as one of India's most loved imported whiskies. Its unique balance of malt and grain whiskies delivers a splendidly full-bodied flavor, earning it a loyal following.

Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual drinker, Seagram's 100 Pipers Deluxe is sure to impress with its impeccable quality and distinct character. It's a true testament to the rich heritage of Seagram's alcoholic beverages brands.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Black & White

If you're a fan of international liquors, India's appreciation for Black & White's Scotch whisky should be no surprise to you. This brand is a standout in the famous alcohol names list and is considered one of the best liquors for ladies in India. Black & White's smooth, light, and flavorful profile makes it a preferred choice for many.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Grant's Family Reserve

You'll find Grant's Family Reserve on the list of top 10 international alcohol brands in India, showcasing the country's taste for premium Scottish whisky. As part of the list of 40 best alcohol brands in India, Grant's Family Reserve has carved a niche for itself among discerning whisky enthusiasts.

This brand is renowned for its unique blend of the finest single malt and grain whiskies. You'll appreciate the rich, smooth taste with notes of malted barley and hints of cut herbs. Grant's Family Reserve stands out not just for its exceptional quality but also its commitment to traditional distilling methods.

It's a testament to India's evolving palate, where international brands like Grant's are gaining popularity and recognition.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 42.4%

Vat 69

In your exploration of India's top international alcohol brands, Vat 69 certainly demands attention. This Scotch whisky, with its distinctive yellow label and a reputation for quality, is popular among whisky enthusiasts. It's not the highest alcohol percentage drink in India, but it delivers a robust 40%, which is the standard alcohol percentage in whisky in India.

Vat 69 is known for its smooth, medium-bodied profile with hints of spice and vanilla. It's the kind of drink that you can enjoy neat, on the rocks, or mixed in cocktails. Its widespread availability and reasonable price point also contribute to its popularity.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Top Alcohol Brands in India

Now, let's shift our focus to some top alcohol brands (Daru brand name) in India.

You might recognize names like Indri, Jack Daniel's, and Jameson, or perhaps the 12-Year-Old offerings from Glenfiddich and Glenlivet.

These brands stand out in a vast and diverse market, so let's take a closer look at why they're favorites among Indian consumers.

Indri

Where should you begin when exploring the top liquor brands in India? Try starting with Indri, a name that's steadily making its mark on the list of 40 best alcohol brands in India.

Indri is renowned for its quality spirits, offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. They've mastered the art of creating exceptional beverages that cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring there's something for everyone.

From their distinctive whiskies to their smooth vodkas, Indri's offerings are a treat for the senses.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 46%

Jack Daniel's

Continuing your exploration of top alcohol brands in India, you'll definitely come across Jack Daniel's, a globally recognized brand that's made a significant mark in the Indian market. Among the list of 40 best alcohol brands in India, Jack Daniel's stands out with its distinctive charcoal-mellowed flavour. Loved for its smooth and unique taste, it's a preferred choice for many Indians.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whisky: 40% ABV
• Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey: 35% ABV
• Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select Tennessee Whisky: 45% ABV
• Jack Daniel's Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whisky: 40% ABV
• Jack Daniel's Legacy Edition Series Second Edition: 43% ABV

Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening or celebrating a momentous occasion, a bottle of this Tennessee whisky often graces the table. Its variants like Jack Daniel's Honey and Jack Daniel's Fire have found their own fan base too.

Despite stiff competition, Jack Daniel's continues to strengthen its foothold, proving its mettle in the diverse and dynamic Indian alcohol market.

Jameson

As another top pick, you'll find Jameson Irish Whisky among the list of 40 best alcohol brands in India, winning hearts with its smooth, rich, and sweet flavor. This Irish delight is triple distilled and aged for a minimum of four years, ensuring a remarkable blend of warmth and spice that you'll relish.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Jameson Irish Whisky: 40% ABV
• Jameson Black Barrel: 50% ABV
• Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition: 40% ABV

Jameson's popularity in India is undeniable, with its signature blend becoming a staple in many households and gatherings. It's not just the taste, but the brand's commitment to quality and sophistication that sets it apart.

The Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old

In your exploration of top alcohol brands in India, you'll surely come across the Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old, a truly premium and renowned single malt Scotch whisky. Part of the lineup of costly alcohol brands in India, this Scotch is a symbol of luxury and taste.

It's not just expensive alcohol in India, it's a mark of sophistication. Each sip takes you on a journey through its rich, fruity notes and distinct oakiness, a testament to its 12-year maturation process. Despite its price, it's a popular choice for those who appreciate quality over cost.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Glenlivet 12-Year-Old

Next up on your list of top alcohol brands in India is the Glenlivet 12-Year-Old, a single malt Scotch whisky that's known for its smooth and delicate flavor. This premium whisky is a star on our list of 40 best alcohol brands in India.

The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old can transport you to the Scottish Highlands with each sip. Its fruity and summery palate, coupled with a hint of toasted oak, has won over many Indian consumers. This Scotch stands as a testament to the Glenlivet distillery's commitment to producing high-quality spirits.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 40%

Paul John

India's Paul John whisky is one you'll not want to miss out on in your exploration of the country's top alcohol brands. As you delve into our list of 40 best alcohol brands in India, you'll find that Paul John stands out with its exquisite range of single malts.

Crafted from Indian barley and matured in American oak barrels, this Goan whisky offers a symphony of flavours. You're treated to a delightful play of spice, fruit, and honey on your palate. It's no surprise that Paul John has bagged numerous global awards.

Known for its balance, complexity, and character, it's an Indian brand that's giving its Scottish counterparts a run for their money. Indulge in a glass of Paul John to truly understand India's thriving whisky scene.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 55%-57%

The Rockford Reserve

While you're savoring the nuanced flavors of Paul John, don't forget to explore The Rockford Reserve, another top contender in India's alcohol market.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Rockford Reserve Whisky: 37.5% ABV
• Rockford Classic Whisky: 42.8% ABV
• Rockford Reserve Sherry Finish: 42.8% ABV
• Rockford Supreme Whisky: 42.8% ABV

This whisky is known for its smooth blend, making it a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. The Rockford alcohol percentage stands at 42.8%, packing a punch that's just right for your palate.

It's a blend that's not just about strength, but also offers a unique flavor profile, making it a must-try. Despite being a premium brand, the highest price of alcohol in India isn't the Rockford Reserve. It offers a refined experience without burning a hole in your pocket.

Blenders Pride

Another brand you should consider on your journey through India's top alcohol brands is Blenders Pride, renowned for its exceptional quality and affordable price. Despite not being the most expensive alcohol in India, it's favored by those who appreciate fine liquor. Even though it's not the most expensive liquor in India, it's still considered a premium brand.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Blenders Pride Reserve Collection: 42.8% ABV
• Blenders Pride Rare Premium: 42.8% ABV
• Blenders Pride Vintage: 42.8% ABV
• Blenders Pride Select: 42.8% ABV
• Blenders Pride Original: 42.8% ABV

Here's a brief overview:

Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual drinker, Blenders Pride offers a unique experience that balances quality and cost, making it a must-try in the Indian alcohol market.

Monkey Shoulder

Your journey through India's vibrant alcohol scene wouldn't be complete without experiencing the smooth, rich taste of Monkey Shoulder. This blended malt Scotch whisky is one of the strongest whiskies in India, yet its complex flavours of vanilla, honey and spiced oak are balanced and approachable, making it a hit with both seasoned drinkers and newcomers.

Monkey Shoulder's versatility also makes it one of the best female alcoholic drinks in India, as it's equally enjoyable neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails. Its playful brand image, coupled with its high-quality blend, has propelled Monkey Shoulder to the forefront of India's alcohol market.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage:43%

Glenmorangie 10-Year Original

Why haven't you tried Glenmorangie 10-Year Original yet, one of India's top-rated whisky brands? Its smooth, velvety texture, and a unique blend of flavors make it a must-try for whisky enthusiasts.

If you're looking for the strongest alcohol in India, this isn't it. But it's a perfect balance of strength and sophistication.

The Glenmorangie 10-Year Original is known for its non-smelling alcohol feature. Unlike other strong spirits, it doesn't have a pungent smell, making it a favorite among those who prefer a subtle aroma. The brand's meticulous distillation process ensures rich, complex flavors while maintaining a gentle scent.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage:43%

After Dark

If you're on the hunt for a top-notch whisky, After Dark should be one of the first brands you consider. This Indian whisky isn't just known for its smooth, rich flavour, but it's also one of the cheapest alcohol in India.

Don't let its price tag fool you, though. After Dark's quality is on par with pricier brands, boasting a complex profile that's a treat for your taste buds. It's perfect for those nights when you want to unwind after a long day.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 42.8%

Amrut

While you might be familiar with international whisky brands, don't overlook Amrut, an Indian single malt that's been making waves in the global whisky scene. Amrut's whiskies are crafted in Bangalore, taking advantage of India's unique tropical climate to create distinctive flavors and accelerate maturation.

You'll find notes of tropical fruits, rich malt and subtle spices in their expressions. The brand's Fusion Single Malt, combining Indian and Scottish barley, has been lauded globally. In 2010, it was even rated the world's third best whisky!

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 50%

Director's Special

Next on your list of must-try Indian alcohol brands is Director's Special, a top-notch whisky that's renowned for its smooth and robust flavor. This brand, under the umbrella of United Spirits Ltd, has been a staple in the Indian market since the early 80s.

It's a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, offering a unique taste that's both affordable and satisfying. You'll appreciate its rich, full-bodied character, and mellow finish. Whether you're a whisky novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Director's Special is a brand you can't afford to miss.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 44.1%

Penderyn

Moving on from Director's Special, let's explore Penderyn, another noteworthy brand in the Indian alcohol market. Originating from Wales, Penderyn is esteemed for its single malt whiskies that have gained favor among Indian consumers. You'll appreciate its smooth finish, characteristic of traditional Welsh distillation processes.

Here's a quick look at Penderyn's popular offerings:

Experience Penderyn's distinct flavor profile, you won't be disappointed!

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 46%

Rampur

If you're looking for a top-notch Indian single malt whisky, you can't go wrong with Rampur. Produced by Radico Khaitan, this brand has been making waves in the international whisky scene.

It's distilled in the foothills of the Himalayas, a region known for its perfect whisky-producing climate. You'll love the unique blend of rich flavours with a touch of Indian exoticism. This whisky offers an enticing balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and spice, with a hint of malty creaminess.

Rampur boasts a well-rounded body and a long, satisfying finish. It's a testament to the craftsmanship of Indian whisky makers.

Alcohol by Volume Percentage: 63%

Royal Stag

Looking for a robust whisky with a distinctive flavor? You're sure to find it in Royal Stag, a standout among India's top alcohol brands.

This premium whisky is a blend of grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, offering a smooth yet complex flavor that's hard to resist. Royal Stag isn't shy about its ambitions, with its tagline, 'It's your life. Make it large.' And it's not just talk - it's India's first non-artificially flavored whisky.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• Royal Stag: 42.8% ABV
• Royal Stag Barrel Select: 42.8% ABV

It's popular among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, which is why it's one of the largest selling whiskies in India.

McDowell's No. 1

Savoring a glass of McDowell's No. 1, you're experiencing one of India's top-selling alcohol brands. This brand is widely recognized for its distinct flavor and quality. You'll find it dominating the whisky sector, not just in India, but across multiple international markets.

Available Variants With Alcohol By Volume Percentage:

• McDowell's No.1 Luxury: 42.8% ABV
• McDowell's No.1 Platinum: 42.8% ABV

McDowell's No. 1 boasts of a diverse portfolio. It includes premium whisky, brandy, and rum, each offering a unique taste. This brand's success is a testament to its consistent quality and innovative marketing strategies.

Grab a look at this table:

Product	Description
Whisky	Offers smooth and rich taste
Brandy	Known for its exquisite flavor
Rum	Loved for its robust character

 

The Covid-19 pandemic now in its second year and with lockdown restrictions still in place has taken a toll on the retail industry and the supply chain. With the uncertainty of the pandemic still at large, the consumer's habit of mass buying and stocking up on essential items has not stopped. Thus, the supply gap gave impetus to local brands and increased consumption of dairy products. This shift enabled local and regional brands with local manufacturing units and distribution networks to plug the supply gap.

The Shift in Consumer Preference 

Despite the challenges, one of the sectors in India that handled the pandemic well is the dairy industry, especially in terms of packed dairy products. What boosted the industry was that the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically affected consumer’s dietary habits. As the lockdown gave people the opportunity to rustle up dishes just like chefs do, the broadening culinary engagement pushed up consumption of dairy products.

With more and more people locked in their homes, consumers ended up spending extended hours in their kitchens, thus, leading to a surge in household consumption of dairy products. Demand for categories such as cheese and paneer witnessed an especially greater demand due to their versatile nature. 

Also, another factor that is aiding dairy product consumption is the growing preference for nutritious vegetarian food. As Indians quite often see vegetarianism more as a good virtue rather than a life choice, the negativity of the pandemic and lockdown led people to opt to eat more paneer and other packaged dairy items as compared to non-vegetarian options. Hence, the Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing focus on nutrition have boosted paneer sales.

Over the last 12 months and going forward, consumer behavior will be different than it was pre-pandemic, and as that behavior takes root, dairy products supply chains will need to adjust from farm-to-fork. Furthermore, the pandemic also ensured consumers stirred away from loosely available products and chose to consume more locally available or regional branded dairy products. This caused an accelerated shift in the supply chain and vastly prompted PM Modi’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’.

Although the biggest component of India’s dairy market is liquid milk, seeing the demand for longer-lasting value products, manufacturers converted the surplus milk into highly demanded value-added dairy products such as paneer, butter, cheese, ghee, and sweets, thus further boosting the dairy industry.

Most importantly, the global pandemic being a major health crisis, was the silver lining for the dairy industry. While other industries and sectors across India struggled, Indian consumers turned towards indulging in homemade comfort food. Consumer choices shifted to consuming products made from organic materials. This set manufacturers in the dairy sector to expand their product offerings.

How Bright is the Future?

As the end of the pandemic remains uncertain, and the best option for survival being hygiene and health, people have realized that it’s important to improve one’s immunity. Hence, consumption of dairy-based ingredients continues to be the favorable option for many.

Furthermore, Covid-19 has brought about a shift in the buying pattern of consumers and many dairy players acknowledge food safety has fuelled a growing trend in consumer preference towards packaged and branded products.

The outlook for the dairy sector in India continues to be positive on the back of government support, increasing population, per capita consumption, and expenditure on value-added products such as paneer, cheese, and butter items.

In the long run, the domestic demand for value-added products such as paneer will only continue to rise. Towards strengthening the value-added product market, the Government may consider measures such as rationalization of GST to build market resilience, giving further impetus to regional brands.

Moreover, the dairy industry, which was facing headwinds during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, has turned this crisis into an opportunity as the supply and consumption of value-added dairy products has risen and only continues to witness an upward trajectory.
 

 

Sustainability is a strategical decision of operating in the ecological, social and economic environment without leaving any negative footprint. Businesses these days are focusing on being ethical and sustainable where social media is also acting as an essential tool in educating customers about its importance. Businesses too are promoting their activities and stories, raising awareness towards sustainability. As todays’ consumer is well-educated and environmentally conscious, thus making the fashion brands deliver the same too. 

Though the retail fashion industry is known for ‘trends’ and ‘fast-fashion’, there is a shift seen in the popularity towards sustainable fashion and eco-friendly shopping. 

As per the report by UN Environment Programme, “10 percent of global carbon emissions are produced by the fashion industry”. Quoting that this is “more than all international flights and maritime shipping”. 

Fashion brands are now focusing on trending pieces in consumer’s wardrobes with responsible and ethical choices. The consumer is making conscious buying decisions keeping the organic and natural brand value of the retailer in mind, as the same reflects their personality too. 

There is a huge increase in search of ‘sustainability-related keywords’ as per the report by Lyst, which include searches like ‘recycled polyester, ‘vegan leather’, ‘organic hemp’ ‘Econyl’, ‘organic cotton’, ‘modal’ and many more. 

Fashion and Environment

Fashion brands are ready to change the game with the ultimate goal of ‘good for people and planet’. The global ethical fashion market is expected “to grow to $9.81 billion in 2025 and $15.17 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 9.1 percent” as per the numbers by sustainable fashion industry statics. 

There is a huge shift observed in consumer behavior during a survey made by Mckinsey towards sustainability goals. Consumers are more conscious in terms of their lifestyle to lessen the environmental impact, they are looking for more for recycling of the product and even expecting environment-friendly packaging too. Thus, sustainability is going to be on top of the mind of consumers and brands in the coming future by building emotional attachment and delivering end-to-end sustainable brands. 

Elisa Niemtzow, VP, Consumer Sectors & Membership at BSR (Business for Social Responsibility) mentioned, “Consumers’ growing interest in ‘zero-waste’ and ‘no buy’ in fashion and beauty signals growing sensitivities in consumers to question their purchases and align them with their values.” 

A meaningful change is expected if consumers, businesses, and brands align their functions with SDGs for everyone with everything on it.

Sustainable and Conscious Fashion Brands 

The brand which achieved the highest rating when it comes to sustainability in fashion is ‘Stella McCartney’ known as a pioneer of eco-friendly ethical luxury fashion, which offered sustainable wardrobe alternative. The strategy of the brand stands on 4 strong pillars, which takes care of people (ensuring smooth supply chain), respect for nature (ensuring environmentally friendly fabric), caring for animals (ensuring animal welfare), and providing circular solutions (3R as environmental Mantra). 

Keeping all these benefits of being sustainable various brands are saving the planet from harmful pesticides and toxic chemicals. Every brand has a different focus in terms of serving Mother Earth and being sustainable, like empowering the rural weavers (FabIndia), using full natural Indian textiles (The Jodi Life), handspun fabric for fashion enthusiasts (KhadiCult), using organic cotton (Pero), recycled cotton (Chola The Label), engaging women in making re-cycled bottle (The Body Shop), eco-friendly textile (Anokhi), empowering rural women (Okhai), using organic fibers (Nicobar), zero waste mission (Doodlage, Insom, Homanwear), surplus cotton fabric (Pomogrenade) and many more. 

Many brands are adapting to a new eco-friendly fashion by a sustainable lifestyle, Mio Borsa producing vegan leather, Maati using up-cycled fabric, B Label is a revolutionary agro-based co., Viscose Staple Fibre by Aditya Birla Group as LIVA fabric, and a wide range of vegan apparel is made available by No Nasties. 

Todays’ consumer is ready to pay more for the brands promising for a healthy environment, up-cycling waste material, eco-friendly structure and reaching out to older generation to millennials by narrating their brand stories. 

Sustainable Fashion for Better Future

Brands have to be conscious from manufacturing (making) to end of use (disposing of) in the context of fashion. The practice of being ethical and sustainable should be a norm to be practiced by all fashion players in the coming time. 

Your consumer is well educated, show them in detail the fabric of your cloth, how the same is different from others with the business model your business is aiming for. 

According to a FashionScope report by McKinsey, “Sustainability is making ground in India, where the local market is forecast to reach nearly $60 billion in revenues in 2022, making it the sixth-largest in the world after the U.K. and Germany”. 

The government is also making its efforts towards making Indian fashion more sustainable; Arvind Mills and Raymond are promoting Khadi products in partnership with Air India and bamboo charcoal fiber was also highlighted by NITI Ayog Forum for North East. 

Whether the product is sustainable or not, brands have to market the same in an environment-friendly way by making the product more durable as well as focusing on the supply chain.

 

The enduring appeal of denim is that in the 140-odd years of its existence, it’s become one of the most popular fabrics in the world. The fabric remains a favourite among young designers, experimenting with cut, wash and finish to take familiar denim jackets and jeans to surreal new heights and consumers who are accepting these variations positively. 

Fashion-conscious consumers want clothes with a strong identity that can help them define themselves. Experimentation and an envelope-pushing attitude are a means of making clothes that become an extreme want instead of an essential need. Beneath the excessive embellishment is an appreciation of individuality. A redefining of aspirational dressing will cater to young consumers who wish to express themselves through clothing with a personalised approach that allows them to stand out from the crowd. 

Ideas around age are changing; 30 is the new 20, and 40 is the new 30 – and with this, a new, youthful focus permeates fashion, with broad appeal across generations. The line between ‘grown-up’ and ‘youthful’ clothes is blurring. Street inspired collections and street wear fashion is on a rise. This displays in clothing that overlaps the line between casual and smart. Nostalgia will always play an important role in fashion. 

The renewed interest in vintage denim, both in fit and fabric, has taught consumers the value of authenticity. There will be a growing appreciation for more considered wardrobes built with future-proof items over the instant gratification of throwaway fashion. There will be a more artful approach to product and design, going beyond high-quality basics to ensure both the enduring appeal and identity defining character of their signature items.

Denim this season takes indigo to a whole new level through a gamut of washes and techniques. Washes like Ice wash,  bleached blue wash, ombrés add fluidity and summer lightness to the collection. There will be an emphasis on  clean and mild washes with a raw touch while distressed and authentic used look denim will be there as  high fashion products. We could see the introduction of relaxed fits, which are ideal for easy-breezy summer days. The old-school relaxed fit is precisely the kind of denim that fashion conscious consumers are looking for.

A portion of the trend this spring-summer is retro and 80s inspired. Fabric plays a very crucial role as the styling gets minimal this season.

Classic jeans are revamped this season. Denim basics and workwear are fine-tuned in an artistic way. Artfully updated denim assortments with subverted design details and concept cuts that give classic items an edgier appeal. Denims are embellished with patches in embroidered and print form. Craftsmanship is key, as younger consumers become infatuated with time-proven classics.

Love of retro style from the late 80s develops a global influence. Inspiration is taken from Native American culture, military clothing and vintage denim style, and melded with contemporary Japanese design to form a distinctive Japanese-American aesthetic. Hand-painted prints further enhance this story's tasteless aspect.

Casual looks become more directional while paying homage to country styling. Simplicity and comfort rule the day in this deconstructed and unfussy trend. Workwear classics are updated with new design details and silhouettes, while rich burnt tones add a subtle nuance. A new type of uniform emerges that is utility-inspired but decidedly non-military in presentation. Standard-issue styles get a street-wear update with exaggerated pockets, functional straps, and anti-fit silhouettes. Utility greens are contrasted with oranges, while washed blues keep this look grounded and signal the coming of summer. Manufacturing advancements blur the line between product categories, where lightweight layers blend shirts with jackets and outerwear. Specialised treatments and utility details are as important as the items themselves. 

Beach-inspired casualwear is updated, with retro references from the 70s inspiring striking graphics and textures, while hybrid styling with global crafts and Eastern influences adds sophistication. Resort-inspired trend focuses as much on how we feel in our clothing as how we feel about it. Easy tailoring and smart casualwear are inspired by 80s leisurewear and country club styles. Denims in striking blue or stark white are teamed with formal shirting and lightweight outerwear for a slick take on off-duty style. 

Different kinds of colour dyes and dyeing techniques are gaining popularity, and this story goes one step further by using dyes on denim products. Over dyed and tinted jeans are some of key fashion products this season. Classic stripes are spliced in this story, and solid denim is interrupted with flashes of global craft patterns in striking tones.

High functionality and utility details will be a popular trend this season. Versatile products crafted out of rigid and stretch fabrics with functional details will be looked upon. Ergonomic patterning and construction will be added to the product. Consumers will be looking for multi-purpose jeans, which can be worn at different occasions, and a single pair can solve dressing complexities of the entire day.
 

 

One of the most desirable consequences of Covid-19 has been the increased all-round consciousness for hygiene. And among several types of hygiene such as personal hygiene, environmental hygiene etc which impact our day-to-day lives, food hygiene has naturally emerged as a major issue for regulators, consumers and above all, for food manufacturers and companies. The constant need to be watchful of what is ingested or goes inside of our bodies can never be exaggerated enough. The recent pandemic has only further highlighted the need for making food hygiene a priority for all. 

Unpackaged Food: An Invitation to Disaster 

There has been repeated reporting of how the open and unpackaged food sold in the streets, fashionably called street food, has in a way been responsible for unsafe and unhygienic food consumption in the country. Particularly, during the pandemic, if the food maker doesn’t maintain personal hygiene, wears masks and gloves and keeps sufficient physical distance from fellow workers, the food prepared is highly risky to consume. 

The unhygienic and unsafe food leads to a vicious cycle of disease and sickness particularly impacting the elderly, the sick and the children, adding to the already high burden of disease pervading in the country.   

Food-Borne Diseases: An Economic Cost

The rise in outbreak of food-borne diseases and safety cases has continued to be reported periodically from different parts of the country. In fact, unsafe food and water have been cited to be the biggest cause of preventable infection in India. Not pursuing basic food safety practices such as wearing an apron, accessing and using tap water, using soap for cleaning utensils, and storing food in proper refrigerated facilities is an invitation to food-borne diseases. This also has an economic cost. It has been estimated that food-borne diseases cost the country a whopping $15 billion.

The Numbers Are Far Too Scary to Ignore

In India, food-borne diseases (FBD) lead to 120,000 deaths each year imposing a burden of over 8 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). In fact, children under 5 years are at 40 percent more risk with around 30,000 deaths each year. These are frightening figures which are only expected to rise further in the coming years. 

The Pandemic-Driven Exigency 

These ongoing measures were given a new impetus when Covid-19 showed up resulting in a new set of guidelines. In addition to the existing food safety protocols, the food businesses were directed to ensure that food handlers and workers are made aware of the symptoms of the virus, the risks emanating from it as well as the good practices to circumvent those risks. Training programmes on risk factors, safe food handling, social distancing and other protective behaviours such as wearing of face mask, hand washing with soap or using alcohol-based sanitizers were made mandatory. In addition, food premises including areas of food establishment such as preparation, storage and packing areas, equipment and containers besides toilets and washrooms were to be periodically sanitized without fail. There should be limited food workers/ handlers in a kitchen or areas of food preparation, packaging etc with each worker strictly maintaining personal/social distancing. Further, the personnel involved in delivery, transport and distribution mechanisms must also rigorously observe Covid-related social distancing and personal hygiene norms and practices.

Therefore, for food to be finally consumed in a safe and hygienic manner, it must become high priority for the entire ecosystem of food manufacturing, distribution and consumption. From hospitality and restaurants to food manufacturers and food vendors to food handlers and finally the food-consuming individual, everyone needs to be aware of and engage in hygienic food practices. “A man is what he eats,” a German philosopher had once said. Good food hygiene practices not only reduce morbidity and mortality but also relieve pressure on the already overburdened health infrastructure and services in the country. And even more importantly, by keeping more people healthy and thereby raising the quality of human capital, the much-touted demographic dividend in the country can truly be tapped.

 

COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdowns have reshaped how we live, shop, and interact with each other. One of the biggest transitions so far is work from home (WFH), which will only stay, with more and more companies increasingly adopting it the world over.

The pandemic has also affected several industries and pushed them to innovate further. The furniture industry is no different from this standpoint.

The sector witnessed a significant slowdown in sales and operations, especially during the initial lockdowns when consumers were locked in their homes. The remote working culture clearly came as a bummer to the offline furniture business. Even when the markets began to reopen after a few months, consumers continued to stay at home primarily because of the fear of contracting the coronavirus.

However, at the same time, this transition also created a new opportunity for businesses to go digital and start selling furniture online. As consumers shifted to buying furniture online, brands and retailers in this space began to capitalize on these new possibilities.

Rise of Online Furniture

With home spaces emerging as their new work zones, a major part of India’s corporate employees started investing in home office furniture, including study tables, laptop tables, office chairs, bean bags, and recliners, among others. Similarly, a significant part of sales also came from the increasing demand for gaming chairs, as the options for outdoor entertainment had drastically reduced during this period.

Not only millennials and Gen Z have switched to online furniture brands, but traditional consumers have also started embracing these online retail models in the recent past. The Indian e-commerce industry, which was slated to become a USD 200 billion market by 2026, seems to achieve this goal much earlier, as highlighted by the IBEF industry research report.

The Growing Role of a Business Website

To bank on the new growth avenues that online brings to the table, businesses must start paying more attention to their official websites. At a time when Google search is the first thing that consumers engage in before shopping, it’s essential for businesses to make their website their new business card.

To achieve this objective, they must prioritize digital merchandising and strive to establish a robust online presence. Investing in activities like podcasts/webinars, virtual product tours, and 360-view showroom presentations can work wonders. Doing so will not only help them drive awareness around their brand and the products they offer, but it will also make the entire shopping journey more seamless and effective.

The Need for Robust Supply Chains

As online retail for furniture expands across India, businesses must maintain a strong supply chain to ensure quick and seamless delivery of products. They must equip themselves with the right tools and response strategies to tackle any unexpected emergencies or interruptions that could hinder their operations. Aspects like production-capacity optimization, demand management, cross-tier risk transparency, etc., should be looked at with greater precision to prevent unforeseen disruptions. All these factors will ultimately decide which businesses will thrive or be outshined by competitors.

Design-Driven Approach and Quality At Scale

With the deluge of companies and brands across India, retailers must manufacture and promote competitive products that are unique in nature and design, and ensure that no other brand can imitate the same. Apart from this, they should also focus on manufacturing quality products at scale that are easily affordable. For this, it’s highly crucial to provide the MSME sector with the much-needed fillip in the form of initiatives that focus on easy access to funds, skill development, and indigenous crafting abilities. Not only will this ramp up domestic sales, but it will also attract foreign brands to invest in the same.

Turn Omnichannel

Retailers must also note that offline experience can never get outdated and will continue to play a vital role in success despite the immense growth of online business models. An online presence alone will not be sufficient for them to ensure success in these times. Therefore, they must adapt to an omnichannel ecosystem to offer the best of both worlds (online and offline) to consumers. Although online has gained impressive traction over the years, and unexpected events like COVID-19 have added to the popularity, businesses must realize that it can never replace the element of ‘touch and feel’ when it comes to buying furniture.

Hence, an omnichannel approach, where consumers can get 24x7 assistance during their online shopping journey, be it related to placing orders or any other query through real-time chat and video call. At the same time, they should also be enabled to experience the product, which can be done through creating more experience stores in the nearby markets that are close to consumers. Providing this kind of blended commerce experience to consumers is of utmost importance for brands to taste success in the post-COVID era.

Final Word

India’s domestic furniture market is slated to clock at a CAGR of 12.91% between 2020 and 2024 owing to the rapid developments and innovation in this space. The global market, on the other hand, is estimated at USD 1.1 trillion. Comparing them will give you a clear idea of how much growth potential India currently holds. Our furniture industry has an immense and endless growth possibility, especially due to the burgeoning demand for comfortable furniture, which has gained more traction in the post-COVID era.

To leverage the untapped growth opportunities in the times to come, brands must focus on four key factors. One, consolidation of the fragmented market through standardization. Two, connected commerce that combines both emotional and functional elements of the consumer experience. Third, emphasizing domestic manufacturing in terms of both scale and quality by leveraging initiatives like Make in India and Vocal for Local. Lastly, bringing Indian artisanship to the forefront with concerted efforts towards design sensibility on supply and demand sides. Looking at the mindful behavior of today’s progressive Indian consumers, a holistic approach keeping in mind all the aforementioned factors will play a pivotal role and help brands thrive in the post-pandemic world.

 

The pandemic has driven commerce and trade onto the internet. This is especially true for the retail businesses as we have witnessed it changing over the past ten months.  

Significant changes in consumer shopping behavior are here to stay. Online buying has increased multifold, though the impact on price segments, is not clearly quantifiable just yet. With people restrained in their houses, their methods of dealing with isolation and uncertainty are reflected in their newly acquired shopping behavior. This includes bulk-buying, increased online surfing, and unpredictability in what, when, how, and where they buy things. Market dynamics are changing, so are the fortunes of business verticals. Brands are now grappling with the question of “where the customer”? 

While it was the Gen Z kids doing most of the online purchasing in the pre-pandemic period, now they have been joined by Gen X, Y, and even the 'baby-boomers’. Everyone is online and the retailers have started focusing on how they can cater to the requirements of each generation. The COVID-19 has changed the way we use the internet; in many households, buying groceries and shopping apparel online have replaced store and mall visits.

When it comes to luxury products like watches – Swiss Luxury Watch brands that earlier hardly considered the internet a serious retailing option, are today fighting for eyeballs. With minimal to no outdoor activity, the watch industry has been facing its most challenging time since its revival in the early ‘90s. This period of uncertainty has resulted in brands rescheduling the launch of novelties and repositioning existing collections.

Urbanization across the country is impacting the millennials and demand for products that are aesthetically pleasing, unique with smart features, and projecting a luxury appeal are gaining in popularity. Interestingly, price is not a game-changer. Brand value is.

Marketing and PR budgets have been completely reworked and the focus has shifted to social media with the print medium losing its traction among most TGs. Though we are separated physically, social media acts as a fantastic way for various communities to connect. With social media flourishing, Bloggers and Influencers have replaced Brand Ambassadors, and a personality is associated with a brand only for a limited duration. This pandemic has brought in a lot of business disruptions and has led to brands re-think their marketing strategy. Brand collaborations are on the rise. Co-branding has also become a norm rather than an exception, and brands are open to making connections across different genres.

The Swiss watch brands have been consistently making efforts to bring in new product innovations that will create a connect with the upcoming generation. One thing the watch brands could capitalize on during the pandemic is the smartwatch features that are becoming a rage with the new generation. A whole collection of “smartwatches” with multiple functions and connectivity are now offered by Swiss brands. Clearly, the target audience seems to be the young urban youth.

The lines between fashion, lifestyle, and luxury are getting blurred as brands have started to realise how customers have evolved and exposure has increased. One important aspect for Gen-Z, while they are shopping online, is that they are always on the look-out for the next big thing in the market. With new features and an improved line of products making its appearance in the market almost every other day, the brands have been trying their best to stay relevant and fresh during these unprecedented times.

The good news is that work from home routines have actually increased disposable income, though net income may have decreased. These are the megabucks that brands are chasing.

 

It’s tough when the markets change and all sectors are forced to innovate. In today’s social distance minded economy, the game of grocery retail, in particular, has changed a lot. 

When lives and livelihoods were at threat, grocery retailers played a vital role in society. Plagues and pandemics have occurred earlier too but grocery shopping has seen a drastic change approximately after 200 years. The act of buying is not changing, what is changing is how the customer will buy?  

Indian grocery retail has seen many transformations from haat, to weekly bazaar, to neighbourhood stores, to mom-and-pop stores, to new age experiential mall culture. The latest catchphrase ‘new normal’ is bringing new trends and changes in the retail business. Even last year during Diwali, Indian e-commerce has seen the expansion of e-groceries instead of electronics or big items as in the previous year. 

According to Albinder Dhindsa, CEO, Grofers, “Groceries have become the focus in this season where people are staying at home and not mingling with each other.”

The contribution which e-grocery (less than 5 percent) used to make within e-commerce is changing. 

As per the report by RedSeer and BigBasket, “Currently the online food and grocery retail hold a minuscule part of online retail with only 0.2 percent penetration and it is predicted to grow by 55 percent to reach 1.2 percent of the market by 2023.” 

Future Customer

According to a famous saying by George Bernard Shaw, “There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” And despite the struggle, the grocery retail business rose and met the challenges posed by the pandemic. The industry has confronted the changes in consumer buying behavior patterns and saw an emergence of new consumer segments. 

‘Back with a Bang’, ‘Stay Frugal’, ‘Keep Cutting’, ‘Cautiously Extravagant’ and ‘Get to Normal’ are the five new consumer segments as per EY Future Consumer Index. This pandemic has given momentum to the grocery business and these segments have helped in leveraging that momentum. 

The Indian market has the largest consumer segment, and as per the data by Invest India. “The overall retail market is set to cross the $1.75 trillion mark by 2026, and it is set to grow at a CAGR of 30 percent for gross merchandise value to be worth $200 billion by 2026.”

Online grocery space has accelerated and start-ups in the online grocery sector raised $665.7 million funding in 2019. With penetration of the internet, usage of smartphones, disposable income, adoption of 5G, and literacy towards technology, this online grocery dream is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2023 from the consumer pockets of Tier II and Tier III cities. 
 
Click and Collect

The biggest change to grocery has been the boom in online ordering - making orders either through phone, WhatsApp, e-mail or website. The consumer is getting all India delivery of branded products through digital India without any geographical constraints. Powerful AI algorithms have given a push to online ordering by creating a personalized experience for customers along with targeted marketing. 

BigBasket reported that the brand has seen a three-fold growth in terms of the order in new customer acquisition, while retention of new customer cohorts has increased by 60 percent. 

On one side where surveys are reporting the inclination of consumers towards online shopping, the fact of maintaining CDP data or using AI for delivering excellent results cannot be ignored. 

Frank Sinopoli, President, Grocery Neighbor said, “Things are changing, the world is chaotic and with that comes opportunity.”

He started a 53-feet long truck with floating carts delivering fresh produce to food deserts and connecting local farmers with their communities. India under its Atam Nirbhar plan has also started ‘Citymandi’ a mobile martin the Uber model. The vision ensures the direct purchase from farmers, innovative technology to manage the supply chain, and an AI-enabled cloud system. Many retail experts have strengthened their delivery services during Covid-19, apps like UberEats, Amazon Prime/ Now, InstaCart have contributed a lot in shipping the groceries straight to the door. 

BigBasket, a unicorn in the field, and Grofers, soon to be a unicorn, with many other players in the online grocery market has seen 76 percent y-o-y sales in 2020.  

Managing inventory through inventory-based model (Amazon, Supermarket, Grofers, Paytm Mall), Hyperlocal model (Dunzo, Swiggy, Instamart), and Mixed model (Flipkart, Reliance Jio) - each player carves a piece of pie with smooth delivery in minimal time. 

A recent partnership of Grofers with Reckitt Benckiser with ‘Deliver Safe Program’ to win customers' confidence in online shopping will break the chain of infection. 

How to Boost Growth

Decisions made by the grocery market in today’s scenario are going to create a competitive advantage beyond 2020. Data is the key and advanced algorithms with next-generation personalization will help in maintaining a loyal customer base for small and big grocery players in the coming time. The frictionless experience encourages satisfaction and can make the consumer purchase repeatedly because of flexibility in terms of preparing the cart (real-time talk to customer support), making it easy checkout (pay online or pick up in-store), or delivery of out-of-stock items to the doorstep. 

Like other online retail businesses, smart-shelf technology to manage the expanded category can be implemented by the grocery business to manage the inventory. 

Pandemic has created uncertainty, grocery retailers that will ensure agility, automation, handling cross-channel assortment, and redress the operations based on emerging dynamics will thrive in the post-Covid world.  
 

 

With packaged food industry as a whole evolving and maturing in the country in recent years, packaged sweets have come to register as an integral part of that process. In fact, the traditional popularity of sweets coupled with an increased consumer consciousness of hygiene and cleanliness has made sure that packaged sweets have acquired an extraordinary traction. Popularity of sweets offered in a hygienic package itself in a way is giving a fillip to the packaged food industry in the country. 

In other words, packaged sweets are revolutionizing the packaged food industry. With authorities increasingly clamping down and tightening norms around food labeling and general safety and hygiene, this is further serving the cause of packaged food industry.        

The Emerging Packaged Food Landscape

Even before Covid-19 had ‘bared its fangs,’ the Indian packaged food sector had been on a positive trajectory. For instance, last year it was reported how packaged food industry had recorded an impressive over 14 percent growth for April to August period. However, what is particularly notable is that this growth had occurred despite the wider consumption slowdown. 

In more recent times, while western snacks have been a high growth category, RTE as emerged as a high potential category. In terms of sales, Tier 1 and metro markets have been the best performers with rural and rest of urban areas contributing almost similarly. Therefore, with a permanently large middle-class with increasingly hectic schedules and busy lifestyles, the room for ready-to-serve packaged food can never be enough for the Indian market and there will always be room for growth. 

The Sheer Range of Sweets Available is a Hugely Motivating Factor

Representing both traditional and the modern, the Indian sweet market is characterized by an extraordinary array of offerings. From traditional milk-based sweets and open mithais offered by unorganised and traditional sweet shops to sweets and confectionery products prepared by organised bakeries, to specialized milk-based products by dairy establishments to luxury mithai brands promoted by a new-age confectioners to organic sweets by modern food brands, the range of sweets products available in the country is simply mindboggling. 

Growing at a CAGR of over 12 percent for almost a decade, the confectionery market alone is estimated at $1.5 billion.  Another research estimates that confectionery and snack market is to grow by over 10 percent between 2020 and 2025. This huge array of items would definitely give a massive stimulus to the packaged food as well as the packaging industry in the country.   

The Growing Packaging Industry 

At the same time, with increasing investment in food processing industries, rapid expansion of organized retail and rising exports market, the packaging industry itself has seen a considerable gain. The need for improvement in shelf life, maintenance of the pace of production while upholding quality necessarily requires high standardized and quality packaging. With improvement in packaging methods and technologies such as the emergence of eco-friendly packaging such as biodegradable technologies, nanofabrication technologies and the shift from rigid to flexible packaging, the packaging industry is undergoing considerable upgrading and change. It has been forecast that the Indian food and beverage packaging market is set to cross US$ 122 billion by 2025 from about US$ 26 billion in 2019 at a CAGR of nearly 30 percent.

Government Tightening Norms

With food regulatory authorities increasingly raising the bar for quality and hygiene for sweet products and even snack category, the packaged food industry would receive further boost. Only in February this year it was reported how local sweet shops had to mandatorily display ‘best before date’ and the date of manufacturing on non-packaged and loose sweets kept in a container or tray, a more stringent norm than the then existing labeling rules which required these details for pre-packaged/ pre-packed sweets only. Such measures could only add to the push for packaged food industry. Significantly, prompted by sustainable environmental concerns, the government is also adopting polices to promote recyclable technologies for packaging. 

Therefore, as Covid-19 has precipitated an all-out migration to packaged food away from open, loose and perceivably unhygienic food and snack culture, packaged sweets and confectionery category would impart the strongest push to the packaged food industry. Despite the recent societal and consumerist drive for healthy and nutritional snacking, the sweets and mithais would continue to form an indispensable part of the country’s food culture which in turn would give a sustained thrust to the packaged food industry. Given that small packs of Rs 5/10 contribute to 70-80 percent of the sales in snacks category, this is encouraging. After all, guilty pleasures can be derived from small packs, since once can never really wish them away.

 

The Philosophy

In its incomprehensible ways, nature knows how to sustain herself. When the last tree is felled, life will sprout from the cracks and blanket what is left behind. The starry night will conspire with crystal dew drops and concoct an array of bright hued mushrooms. Rings of magic will emerge. Entrapments of old souls, akin to a billion years ago, frilling in layers and ornamented with wildflowers—will be penchants of a new dawn.

Death will translate into life. Like a beautiful beginning veiled in a painful ending, weed, lichens & ‘the mushroom’—shall render old to new. Perhaps the growth circles of a tree will re-form themselves on the skin of a mushroom only to say, that the soul lives on. The utopian aftermath due to human deeds where life will refill the planet after we are gone.

The Collection

‘The Dawn’ contemplates the state of environmental damage and imagines the world that shall live beyond the interference of the human species. It emerges from an intensified realisation during the lockdown that the humans may not have to save the planet, but themselves. The planet perhaps shall survive regardless and the human species may succumb to their weakness. Filmed in a pristine marble dump-yard situated in the state of Rajasthan in India, the collection represents a flush of life. A retrieval of colour to a world drained of its natural resources, abundance and animation through years of piling marble dust.

The models, as nature herself, wear exotic mushrooms separately hand tacked over the glimmering tree-bark-texture hand embroidered on tulle and silk organza that is further embellished with wildflowers. As says the botanist, Nicholas P. Money, ‘Mushrooms are masterpieces of natural engineering, the most wondrous inventions in evolutionary history.’ Each of the mushroom forms is individually engineered through a unique pattern making process assisted by novel hand embroidery techniques, in order to achieve a realistic fall and movement.

The Silhouettes

Shape shifting silhouettes constructed with meticulous placement of these forms aim to replicate life in convergence with human imagination. A coming together of hands to lay the quintessential craft of hand embroidery alongside design intervention and contemporary application of our core values of slow, ethical & sustainable couture. Garments that wish to propose to its viewer, a simple question—do we wish to continue witnessing the marvels of nature present to us on this planet? Because we may be required to dig within ourselves for wisdom and realise the change.

“What mushrooms have taught me about the meaning of life”

—Nicholas P Money, Professor of Botany and Western Program Director at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio

“Mushrooms are masterpieces of natural engineering. The overnight appearance of the fruit body is a pneumatic process, with the inflation of millions of preformed cells extending the stem, pushing earth aside, and unfolding the cap. Once exposed, the gills of a meadow mushroom shed an astonishing 30,000 spores per second, delivering billions of allergenic particles into the air every day. A minority of spores alights and germinates on fertile ground and some species are capable of spawning the largest and longest-lived organisms on the planet. Mushroom colonies burrow through soil and rotting wood. Some hook into the roots of forest trees and engage in mutually supportive symbioses; others are pathogens that decorate their food sources with hardened hooves and fleshy shelves. Mushrooms work with insects too, fed by and feeding leaf-cutter ants in the New World and termites in the Old World. Among the staggering diversity of mushroom-forming fungi we also find strange apparitions including gigantic puffballs, phallic eruptions with revolting aromas, and tiny “bird’s nests” whose spore-filled eggs are splashed out by raindrops.

Mushrooms have been around for tens of millions of years and their activities are indispensable for the operation of the biosphere. Through their relationships with plants and animals, mushrooms are essential for forest and grassland ecology, climate control and atmospheric chemistry, water purification, and the maintenance of biodiversity. This first point, about the ecological significance of mushrooms, is obvious, yet the 16,000 described species of mushroom-forming fungi are members of the most poorly understood kingdom of life. The second point requires a dash of lateral thinking. Because humans evolved in ecosystems dependent upon mushrooms there would be no us without mushrooms. And no matter how superior we feel, humans remain dependent upon the continual activity of these fungi. The relationship isn’t reciprocal: without us there would definitely be mushrooms. Judged against the rest of life (and, so often, we do place ourselves against the rest of nature) humans can be considered as a recent and damaging afterthought.”

 

The transformation of just 10 percent of the 13 million traditional grocery retailers in India, known as Kirana stores, could boost retail consumption by more than 5 percent and generate approximately 3.2 million new jobs in India.

According to a new report from Accenture and Trust For Retailers and Retail Associates of India (TRRAIN) titled ‘Transforming Kirana Stores to Drive Economic Growth,’ the report outlines a strategic approach for unlocking value by transforming Kirana stores through a seven-stage framework that focuses on store location and layout; technology; store funding; and product placement, among other factors.

“The rapid changes in consumer behavior and acceleration of online commerce, mandate that the Indian retail ecosystem transform to meet emerging consumer needs,” said Piyush N. Singh, India Market Unit lead. 

“As the lifeline of the Indian retail sector, a digital-led transformation of Kirana stores can result in significant economic gains, including a nearly 1 percent employment growth in India. The transformation process needs to be expedited with comprehensive policy intervention, technology support, and, most importantly, collaboration between key ecosystem players,” he further adds.
 
“The modernization of Kirana stores will not only help improve consumption and local employment but will also have a positive impact on the retail ecosystem in terms of new growth opportunities,” said Sameer Amte, a managing director in Accenture’s Strategy & Consulting business in India. “We believe with an improved, intelligent supply chain infrastructure, easier access to technology and funds, these stores can redefine the future of the Indian retail landscape.”
 
The modernization of Kirana stores should focus on local assessment, funding assessment, store layout, technology, product placement practices and customer engagement.

“India is a nation of shopkeepers, and Kirana stores play a crucial role in the Indian retail sector, which in turn contributes nearly 11 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product and 8 percent of its total workforce. Kirana transformation will not only help store owners improve profitability but also add value to the customers and overall ecosystem. This report puts the spotlight on the pivotal role of the Kirana stores in the community and the impact of their transformation not just on them and the industry, but also on India as a whole,” said B.S. Nagesh, founder of TRRAIN. “We believe the report will serve as a foundation as we march ahead in our journey to impact millions of Kirana store owners in India.”
 
E-commerce and cash-and-carry retailers can leverage Kirana stores for last-mile delivery in remote places and in turn support them with digital technology such as digital payment solutions at the point of sale, the report highlights.
 
Intermediary players such as wholesalers and logistics providers need to modernize to fulfill the needs of the transformed retail ecosystem, it further adds.
 

 

Even before the COVID-19 crisis, the fashion industry had begun to make changes, many of which have been accelerated by the crisis. Innovation, particularly in challenging times, has proven its relevance time and again to reinvigorate business as usual to achieve organisational objectives, and brands, manufacturers and retailers that are looking to innovation at this time, are better prepared to emerge stronger from the crisis. In a newly released report ‘The State of Circular Innovation in the Indian Fashion and Textile Industries’, Fashion for Good highlights some of the challenges in the region as well as the opportunities for innovation and investment. Fashion for Good also addresses these challenges through their programmes to accelerate and scale these technologies as well as through collaborative initiatives with key players in the industry.  

Promising Areas for Innovation in COVID-19 Times

The crisis has brought the industry, and the structure of the fashion supply chain in particular, into sharp focus, highlighting three key areas of innovation opportunities in the fashion value chain: Supply Chain Transformation, Stock Management and Digital Acceleration. Though these areas have long been on the industry’s radar, given the devastating impact of the crisis and the immediate need for alternative solutions, they have received tremendous attention. 

With the significant disruption to the demand and supply chain across the fashion ecosystem, there has never been a more urgent need for transformation towards sourcing practices that are more demand-driven and more sustainable on both the social and environmental fronts. The current situation has called for on-demand and micro-factory solutions that more closely match demand and supply and can easily ramp up production as and when needed, using manufacturing processes which can help reduce waste throughout the supply chain and provide localised logistic solutions. Innovation in the field of predictive manufacturing, sorting and recycling should help to ensure resources are used more efficiently and effectively, ensuring a robust, sustainable business model for the future. Producing less with more recycled content and on a more predictive/ just-in-time manner potentially places brands in a better financial position and prepares them should they encounter another crisis in times to come.

As sales decline with many stores having to shut down, vast volumes of unsold and unshipped garments are now a costly resource. The crisis presents brands with the opportunity to re-examine the importance and utilisation of resources, to diversify their customer base and find innovative means to sell, reuse or rent excess stock. Transparency and traceability solutions also come into play to identify potential issues and solutions, to make informed, data driven decisions to reduce excess stock. Transparency solutions not only help to resolve short-term issues resulting from the crisis, such as the build-up of excess stock, but they also provide useful tools for identifying risks and mitigation strategies for the future. 

In the meantime, some of the shifts we are witnessing in the fashion industry, such as the digital step change, are mostly an acceleration of the inevitable — shifts that were likely to have happened further down the line had the pandemic not prioritised their urgency now.

As the crisis has prevented physical contact within and between every stage in the fashion supply chain — and will likely still pose limitations on manual processes, physical meetups and travelling for some time to come — the fashion industry is evaluating options to shift into the digital space along the entire value chain.

When speaking of digitisation, we are mostly referring to replacing current manual and physical practices with more efficient and sustainable digital technologies, such as innovations in digital design processes, digital means of merchandising, planning and selling garments, virtual fashion as well as innovations in consumer engagement, such as fitting solutions, online and virtual selling to name a few. 

The crisis demands an acceleration of sustainable initiatives to remain competitive. The pressing issues currently faced across the industry have prioritised, elevated and accelerated the need for innovation to meet the challenges ahead and for the industry to emerge stronger from this crisis. As an industry, we have persevered through challenging times, have shown our resilience, ingenuity and creativity to emerge all the better. We have numerous allies and champions across the industry whose steadfast commitment to sustainability and innovation is needed to ensure they remain a priority moving forward.
 

 

The COVID-19 outbreak early this year wrecked almost every industry worldwide. India’s dairy industry is no exception. Its business operations were hit hard as the industry had to navigate the negative effects of the pandemic on logistics, an abrupt change in demand consequently impacting the supply.  Due to the nationwide lockdown, consumption from non-essential commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels, bakery, sweet shops, theatres, and malls, suddenly dipped to zero. 

Plus, for milkmen and vendors who collected loose milk from dairy farmers and then supply it to urban consumers, the ban on travel ruthlessly disturbed this arrangement.  Milk procurement from small farmers, who were outside the umbrella of organized cooperative and corporate sector dairy networks, was equally impacted. That was a jolting setback for the dairy industry as well as farmers. 

Unfortunately, the industry faced a few more exceptional challenges. It wasn’t possible to entirely cut down the milk production considering the plunge in demand and issues in supply. Irrespective of the market mayhem, a cow had to be milked daily for its health. On one hand, it increased the cost of a dairy farmer and on the other, the situation left them with surplus milk with no trade taking place. 

Moreover, the pandemic didn’t eliminate the need for dairy products. But raised a different concern. Products such as curd and paneer are perishable and have a short shelf life. Hence, these were not stocked by families as their back up plan during the lockdown. As these can’t be stored for selling at a later date, and the dairy supply chain operations were severely disrupted, surplus availabilities of dairy products had to be discarded.  Another factor that added salt to the injury was the drastic declination in the consumption of cold products like ice cream, flavored milk, and yogurt. In order to keep ourselves safe, most of us have avoided the food known to enhance cough and cold.

In no time, India, the largest and thriving dairy producer in the world with 187.7 million tons of milk production, as per the data from NDDB, and a high turnover rate, received a hard blow.

But every dark cloud has a silver lining. If this pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, it has also given an opportunity to the dairy industry to look beyond and unleash its potential. Precisely, this is how several players in the industry responded to the pandemic. Identifying the need of the hour, they forayed into new product categories. Products for immunity boosting such as haldi doodh (turmeric milk), camel milk, and goat milk started gaining attention. Consumer choices are shifting to consuming products made from organic materials. Further, considering health and hygiene are two key factors in the era of new normal, the demand for fresh and organic products will rise in the years to come. This has set manufacturers in the dairy industry to expand their offerings.

No doubt, due to the rapidly changing industry environment as well as consumer behavior, the dairy businesses experienced ebbs and flows of demand and supply. But on a brighter note, weighing the current developments, we are foreseeing a U-shaped growth curve for the dairy sector, wherein the industry is expected to regain its stable growth in days to come.

 

Several lockdowns later and almost a year after, the COVID-19 pandemic has altered not only life but major lifestyle choices to fit people’s stay-at-home requirements. Not socializing and staying indoors has led people to rely on comfort over style, and it is pretty understandable. Chilling in your tracksuit is definitely the new normal. But who says you can’t bedazzle the tracksuit look to feel a little festive this New Year?

Tracksuits and Runway Fashion

While tracksuits originally surfaced in the 60s serving the very practical purpose of being a comfy apparel for athletes, they didn’t take much time to get popular for everyday lounging. They resurfaced as style statements for street wear as popular musicians and artists helped tracksuits evolve as a pop culture statement. The iconic Paris Hilton and Jennifer Lopez track-suit look is still unforgettable having inspired tonnes of runway designs over the years, still continuing to be a “cool” style statement in the fashion realm.

Some Celebrities Who Revolutionized Tracksuits in 2020

The trendy tracksuit look has been revolutionized in the last decade where people have in general gravitated towards casual styles. The five-time Grammy-winner Billie Eilish is a pop culture sensation who has taken the tracksuit look to another level. Her authentic comfort style has inspired several teens to get on the track-pants bandwagon!

Here is a click of Kylie Jenner sporting a Veluor Tracksuit with style and accessories. It only goes to show that glamour and track-suits can definitely be a theme, which has in fact gotten popular, even before comfort was priority.

How To Up Your Tracksuit Game in 2021?

Staying at home has always been about comfort. So much so now, that one wouldn’t know how to do without it! Why not up your style game with a comfy tracksuit look, and enter this New Year with style?

Play with solid colours and accessories or perhaps solo prints, florals and other apparel patterns like Tara Sutaria and Kiara Advani in their fun looks.

 A neutral tracksuit can be paired with non-chalant slippers or a comfy pair of shoes. Kareena pulls off this look while also pulling off more glamorous athleisure looks.

You can opt for a bold print on top with solid pants for another statement look. Neon tracksuits could be your thing too, accessorized with a brass coloured chain or perhaps some white shoes. Here’s how the power couple Raveer and Deepika aced the Neon tracksuit look.

Club it up with a jacket or a pair of shades. Need a little inspiration? You can look up runway tracksuit pieces or perhaps celebs who chose monochrome, patterned or a combination of styles for their look. Statement accessories often add the much needed bling to your look. Channelize your true sense of style and explore colours, patterns and accessories to up your tracksuit game in 2021.

 

As 2020 raged with the pandemic, home appliances industry in our country, like many other sectors, has faced unprecedented challenges. As this fateful year ends and we prep ourselves to live the ‘new normal’ way in 2021, the exciting news of the arrival of multiple COVID-19 vaccines is helping restore consumer’s confidence and revive demand for companies in home appliances sector. 

At this point in time, here are the top 5 trends that are expected to sway the Indian home appliances industry in 2021:

Boost in Domestic Manufacturing: Following the recent India-China standoff, the clarion call for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ by Government, and Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, domestic manufacturing for household appliance products is expected to give a prolific boost in 2021. Many companies in the home appliances sector have already started to ‘Manufacture in India’, limit and/ or eliminate imports and produce new products based on localized needs, features or India-specific innovations. Since the imported commodity price for consumer electronics products is anticipated to increase in 2021, it will further propel the trend of manufacturing domestically.

Home Utility & Wellness Products to Become the Rage: As the ongoing saga of work-from-home or remote work and online learning trickles ahead to the next year and people continue to stay indoors for longer hours, utilitarian products which complement the stay-at-home and do-things-yourself lifestyle are booming in demand. For instance, household appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, indoor air purifiers, washing machines, and low-cost as well as premium electronic devices are expected to be bought and sold in large volumes in the coming year. Also, given that the pandemic has reaffirmed the importance of healthy living, a new and innovative category of wellness products has come up as ‘need of the hour’ solution; these types of anti-COVID, anti-infection, or health-consciousness-based home appliances will again be in high demand in 2021.  

Digital-First Business Will Be Priority: The whole world turned to online and digital during COVID, and the home appliances sector can obviously be no exception. 2021 will be the year when both big and small-sized companies in this industry will be compelled to focus whole-heartedly on digital-first business strategies. Even traditional product-based home appliance players may switch entirely from ‘brick-and-mortar stores and shops’ to e-tail or digital commerce, or will at least try to go ‘phygital’ (physical+digital). The companies will also be looking at using digital tools/ technologies to engage and interact with consumers (especially tech-savvy millennial customers), market their products, optimize operations, and so on. 

Purposeful Innovation for Future-Forward Advancement: In order to stay relevant and ahead-of-the-curve in these uncertain times amid changing consumer behaviour(s), home appliance makers are currently feeling the need to diversify product portfolios and innovate purposefully and mindfully. In today’s age when consumers are increasingly looking for personalized and easy-to-use products and/ or experiences, product or technology-based innovation in home appliances must focus on 3Cs, i.e. convenience, connectedness, and customizability to the end-users. By integrating novel technologies such as IOT (Internet of Things) or AI (Artificial Intelligence) into products/ solutions, future-forward companies will be looking to aid the lifestyle and solve daily-life household problems/ challenges of their potential customers. 

‘Go Green and Clean’ Will Be In: The global virus outbreak has not only made us more health-conscious, but also collectively raised our consciousness and commitment towards the environment, and for providing cleaner and greener solutions for planet Earth. For the Indian home appliance industry, the upcoming year ushers a great opportunity to come up with more environment-friendly products. Furthermore, a large number of companies building/ manufacturing the appliances are expected to re-look and transform their production and distribution value chain (from sourcing, manufacturing to packaging and so on) in a way so that maximum use of clean energy and eco-friendly products or raw materials can be made, and the circular economy concept can be embraced for good. 
 

 

Over the past few months, the pandemic and the resultant lockdown have created disruptive trends that have altered the personal and professional lives, across sectors. From home offices, home schools, and the need for individual space to accommodate peaceful extended indoor time in a family home has given a rise to the need for multi-functional, convenient, and customised furniture that can make ‘living’ comfortable and functional. This, coupled with the slowing down of international trade and the thrust in ‘local for vocal’ and ‘Make in India’, as well as a rise in e-commerce for furniture, have all further given a boost to the Indian furniture manufacturing sector.

As per a recent report, the Indian domestic furniture market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.91 percent during the period of 2020-2024, while the global furniture market is estimated at $1.1 trillion. The Indian market size, in comparison, comes to be less than 5 percent, highlighting the huge growth potential. Apart from the domestic furniture market, the potential for furniture exports also shows great promise, with several countries looking to move their manufacturing base out of China, in the post-COVID-19 era.

While the above shows overall promise, there are key trends that will drive this growth, which are as under:

Changing Consumer Preferences

As mentioned above, the pandemic and the lockdown has changed customer preferences largely as comfort and functionality have become as significant as design and aesthetics. With the need to spend extended hours at home, sharing space with family members while working from home/ studying from home, and spending leisure time together, the furniture set up for homes has changed. Manufacturers and retailers will see a continuation of this trend well into the coming year, and there will be a rise in demand for multi-functional, comfortable, and aesthetic furniture for the home. Additionally, with the increasing awareness about sustainability and recycling, consumers are making more informed choices, picking engineered wooden furniture/ refurbished furniture over plastic furniture.

Policy Support for Manufacturing

As India aims at becoming a global manufacturing hub, there has been a major policy push, with initiatives like ‘Make In India’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ etc., that has given a boost to the manufacturing sector, including furniture manufacturing. As per the Make in India initiative, the GoI aims to increase the share of the manufacturing sector in the country’s GDP to 25% by 2025. Additionally, in August 2019, the Government permitted 100 percent FDI in contract manufacturing through the automatic route, further encouraging the growth of the sector.

Rise in E-Retail for Furniture

One of the major disruptions witnessed during the lockdown was the sudden rise in e-commerce. While there has been a rise in need for modular, multi-functional and customised furniture for home-offices and home-schooling, the lockdown saw a shift, with consumers preferring to purchase these online instead of from the traditional stores, thereby changing the face of Furniture retail. And these changes are not restricted only to the urban market but are also seen in smaller towns and tier II cities, as most urban professionals are migrating away from cities to work from their home towns, due to remote working options. 

Rental Furniture Demand

With the changing consumer trends about design and functionality, another major trend that is driving the growth of furniture retail is the rental furniture sector. With the increased financial uncertainty and economic slowdown, several millennial consumers, who are either living alone or sharing space with friends, are opting to rent functional and smart furniture via online portals, instead of investing in a lifetime purchase of furniture. Apart from being cost-effective and convenient, the rental furniture portals also offer flexibility and access to varied designs, on one platform, catering to the changing tastes and needs of the millennials.

Supportive Logistics Infrastructure

One of the key aspects to drive the growth of manufacturing and retail is a robust logistics and supply chain infrastructure. With the government's focus on developing a robust road, rail, and international freight network, coupled with a thrust on technology-enabled supply chain and warehousing ecosystem, the country is set to witness rapid development in the logistics and supply chain sector. The e-commerce rise, on the other hand, is also driving the growth of the sector, with efficient last-mile deliveries, reverse logistics, and speedy deliveries that are also enhancing the supply chain networks, ensuring robust infrastructure support for a booming manufacturing sector.

While the above-mentioned trends are collectively set to drive the furniture manufacturing and retail sector, the rise in export demand and renewed interest in commercial furniture once the offices re-open to full capacity, are other key factors that will also play a significant role in the rise of the sector. For manufacturing, India is already poised for success with the availability of resources, manpower, and superior technology, and policy support to drive this growth. Synergising these with easier access to capital, skilled labor, encouragement to indigenous design and artisans, and supportive factors to help MSME and larger manufacturers to collaborate, can together lead to attracting international investors and buyers.

 

In the history of FMCG industry, the year 2020 will be remembered always because our economy and business witnessed some turbulent and unexpected changes. The COVID-19 pandemic has majorly impacted the attitude of the consumers and paved a new consumption pattern in them which is predominantly dominated by health & wellness, safety & assurance and taste & enjoyment. To cater to these growing needs of the consumers, FMCG companies are also bringing many new changes in their functioning. 

Here are some emerging trends for 2021: 

Health and Wellness 

Proactive living and good health have become the driving factors of all the innovations and consumer attitudes. In the last couple of months, consumers’ focus has been intensified on health. 80% of people living across the globe are going to eat and drink healthy in the years to come. Consumers have understood the preventive health strategies now. Immunity strengthening products will be given more priority by the consumers for a long-term. A data by FMCG survey even shows that 43 percent of global consumers are actively looking for ingredients that strengthen their immunity with the everyday food and drink they consume. The most prominent ingredients that consumers will continue to consume are omega 3, vitamin, calcium, protein, probiotics/ cultures.  

Investments in Digital 

With social distancing norms in place and uncertainty to general business, larger players have also invested in digital technologies to reduce cost structure and increase business continuity. Companies are extending partnerships with multiple digitally native players to expand reach with digitally native customers. A large FMCG player is participating in the digitalisation journey for general trade (GT) – an app for its GT stakeholders now has 0.23 million outlets onboard and seen a double rise in order value and number of SKUs ordered. Companies have also invested in more agile planning solutions and explored digital in manufacturing to enable continuity to business and respond better to the crisis.

Safety and Assurance 

After seeing so much of crisis in 2020, consumers are looking forward to those opportunities which don’t induce any risk both financially or health. As consumers are putting maximum emphasis on value and trust, the trend of safety and assurance has emerged. The coronavirus pandemic has also raised people’s awareness towards conserving the earth for better quality of life for us and future generations. They have realized that the way we treat our mother earth, it will also treat us in the same way. Even people have shifted to natural products and are no longer indulging in those products, which are made in unnatural ways and exhibit animal cruelty. Consumers are looking for such products which are natural, real, authentic and nutritional. They are not preferring any such products which they haven’t heard of. 

Save to Thrive 

Compared with pre-COVID-19 expectations, the percentage of respondents globally expecting positive revenue growth is down 40 points. In India, the outlook is down by 20 points. In India, according to a survey by Deloitte, 73 percent of the companies surveyed expect to undertake a cost reduction programme in the next 12 months. They are concerned with their current cost structure. Companies have cut down on their discretionary spending, Due to COVID-19, companies optimised on their trade spend, with focus on ensuring product availability in the channel (as consumers stocked up) and reduction in advertisement budget across major players. Reduction in advertisements, specifically television advertisements, saw various B2C start-ups take up top advertisement spots.

Taste and Enjoyment 

While following the trend of eating healthy, consumers aren’t ready to compromise on health. A lot of home-grown exotic products will be on rise. With the advent of digitilisation and increase in influencer marketing, consumers will like to demonstrate the good taste and sophistication. Eating out will also be there in 2021 just for the need for comfort and escapism from the pressures of everyday life. While no matter how much positivity and freshness we usher in the new year but the truth is that the uncertainty from this year will continue into 2021 and beyond.   
 

 

The year 2020 has driven unprecedented business change across the world, including the food industry. Here are some trends that were visible in 2020 and will be defining and leading the way in 2021 as well.

Contactless Deliveries

Thanks to COVID-19, contactless deliveries was a trend that began early in 2020 but will continue well into 2021 unless the vaccine is administered to everyone across the globe. The trend caught on as there was an increased consumer caution around hygiene. It mitigates the risk of virus transmission by limiting contact between people during transactions. Additionally, the robust digital payment ecosystem made the process even more smooth and safe. In some cases, contactless deliveries were also enabled through the use of robots and drones, which might just gain more popularity in the future.

Hygiene

Customers have adopted many habits during the pandemic that are here to stay. They have many reservations about sourcing perishable food produce from unhygienic wet markets. Hygiene and physical contact being the primary concern among the concerned customers. FMCG companies are launching products online before the traditional retail stores, with e-commerce sales recording 56 percent growth in the first quarter of 2020 and 38 percent increase in June 2020, according to India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF). India’s e-commerce industry is projected to reach $99 billion by 2024, growing at 27 percent CAGR over 2019-24, with grocery being one of the key drivers of incremental growth, as per IBEF.

Hygiene is also impacting brand loyalty. The change in purchase patterns is also evident. It has been observed that customers are increasingly looking at certified and tested quality products than lower quality products that could potentially cause harm in any way.

Transparency
 
The food industry has recognized that transparency builds consumer trust. Consumers now expect food labels to provide better transparency around the product lifecycle. The customer’s quest for chemical-free and preservative-free food alternatives is another key trend. Therefore, the pandemic has accelerated consumer interest in a more holistic approach to health, which includes a greater understanding of hygiene and safety.

Collaboration

The food companies have slowly realized that collaboration is key to ensure doorstep deliveries as consumers want products and services to be brought directly to them, irrespective of their geography.

Speaking on the shift in trend, Shan Kadavil, CEO, FreshToHome said, “Today’s customers are smart. They seek validation for the products they consume. Therefore, a certification of a product’s safety and quality are of utmost importance. There has also been a change in the purchase pattern as the customers of today are looking for a quality product that is transparent in its ingredients, neat in packaging, and allows traceability of source. FreshToHome platform offers the freshest meat and fish thanks to the AI-powered supply chain technology, aided by a cold chain used by its sellers. This is to ensure that our customers get 100 percent chemical-free and preservative-free products."

Online shopping is the new normal and an undisputed way forward when it comes to safe and secure purchases. The food sector, that has been gradually attracting consumers since 2018, has seen a paradigm shift in shopping behavior and is currently enjoying the attention. 

Thus, with ever-increasing numbers of online buyers and digital disruption, the food industry in the e-commerce space will continue to grow owing to more sophisticated digital networks.
 

 

The COVID-19 pandemic and the consequent lockdown have dramatically changed the way people shop for what they need. While stepping out to a supermarket was earlier a matter of course, customers are now hesitant to expose themselves to crowded places. The solution to this has come from an unexpected quarter, kirana stores.

Earlier struggling to stay afloat amidst the stiff competition from supermarkets and e-tailers, Kirana stores have been quietly servicing the needs of 1.4 billion Indians since lockdown began. While large supermarkets and e-commerce stores have grappled with supply issues, neighborhood stores with fewer resources but a greater connect with the hearts of their consumers have gained in popularity. 

Paving the Way for Return of Mom-and-Pop Stores

There are over 12 million Kirana stores across India, providing daily essentials and groceries to the families in their vicinity. Through the advent of malls and megamarkets, they have retained their presence and continue to thrive, particularly in the lockdown era.

- Fear of Exposure at Big Stores

Over the past few months, people across India have been nervous about stepping out and exposing themselves to the virus. This fear is exacerbated in the case of supermarkets where there are many other customers who could put them at risk. Kirana stores are thus the natural choice to opt for, as their smaller premises allow fewer people in at a time. Moreover, with most supermarkets and large retailers forced to shut shop during the lockdown, Kirana stores are often the only option.

- Lack of Choice in Online Deliveries

Many customers turned to e-commerce solutions like BigBasket or Swiggy Groceries to get their essentials, but even these come with their pitfalls like delays in delivery, minimum order value, and the inability to choose one’s own produce. Instead, customers can simply step out to the nearest Kirana store and pick up what they need. This also allows them to select products after personally checking for freshness or any blemishes.

- Quick Shopping Experience

With online deliveries, one has to wait several hours and often an entire day before the purchases show up, which can be inconvenient. Instead, one can quickly step out and collect essentials as and when needed from a Kirana store.

- Personal Connect

As opposed to the impersonal experience of shopping online or at a supermarket, the shop owner at a Kirana store often knows his customers well and makes the interaction a friendly one, which encourages the buyer to return. The personal connect also allows for experiences and requests that would not be possible elsewhere, such as the customer calling up the store owner and requesting for certain items to be kept aside for himself. 

- Digitised Experience

What is remarkable to note is how the Kirana stores have rapidly adopted new technologies such as digital payments and contactless delivery to ease up the buying process, particularly in a post-Covid world where customers are reluctant to handle cash or cards. The adoption of POS machines and UPI payments by even tiny stores in small towns has enabled a safer shopping experience and also furthered digitisation more rapidly.

Overall, consumer expenditure at Kirana stores has gone up by around 40% since lockdown began in March.

How Kirana Stores are Making Waves in Post-COVID India

To understand the exact impact of the Kirana stores in post-lockdown India, EY conducted a survey across metro and non-metro cities. The survey found that 20% of Kirana stores have started using online platforms to get assistance with deliveries and have a steady supply of goods coming in, while 40% state that they would like to partner with online platforms to help them grow further. Furthermore, 79% of Kirana stores in non-metros and 50% in metros are seeing new customers come in post-lockdown, which indicates a renewed trust in hyperlocal communities. The need to adopt new technologies to improve sales and supply chain management was also recognised; 58% of traders in metros and 46% in non-metros are convinced that digitisation is now a must for them. 

In response to this boom in Kirana's growth, the Indian government is drafting new e-commerce policies that will help these stores integrate better into the online ecosystem. Once these policies are in place, Kiranas will be given special packages of incentives to handle both online and offline sales. Moreover, corporate giants like Amazon, Flipkart, and Reliance are now taking an interest in Kirana stores as potential fulfillment partners for their grocery divisions, such as Flipkart’s onboarding of over 50000 Kirana stores to deliver to 850 cities ahead of the festive season. 

As India struggles to recover from the blow dealt by the lockdown, Kirana stores have emerged as the unsung heroes helping a country with its daily needs. As storeowners adapt to changing consumer behaviors by adopting technology while continuing to provide the personalised Kirana experience, they could very well emerge as the hubs that strengthen the FMCG distribution network and help the industry recover sooner. 

 

As India prepares to enter 2021, there are some good tidings. Going by the latest reports, the economy is in the revival mode. With vaccines to combat COVID-19 a reality – although mass availability is some way off – hope abounds that the pandemic may be brought under control, sooner rather than later. 

All of which augurs well for the FMCG segment, which is India’s fourth-largest sector, employing three million-plus people. In the Rs 4.0 lakh crore industry, household and personal care items comprise around 50 percent of FMCG sales. While the urban segment contributes around 55 percent of the total FMCG revenues, the market in rural regions is expected to record faster growth. As semi-urban and rural India grows at a robust pace, FMCG products already account for half of the total spending in rural areas.

Significant Facts and Figures

Despite the pandemic’s impact on consumer spending behaviour in 2020, the situation is expected to turn around in 2021. Currently, most households remain wary about what they purchase and the frequency of purchases. In 2020, lockdowns and other pandemic-related restrictions meant people preferred purchasing essentials online, including FMCG goods, rather than visiting brick-and-mortar stores. 

The possibility of vaccines being available in India at some point, however, will lead to increased sales from conventional outlets such as local markets, hypermarkets and kiranas, among others. But digital will continue being a parallel purchase mode because both urban and rural people have developed a degree of comfort regarding online orders. 

The biggest benefit of online shopping is that it can be done from the safe confines of homes without worrying about social distancing norms. As per a Nielsen Global Connect report, online shopping has seen an increase of more than 20 percent.

Meanwhile, an intriguing fact – rural markets performed relatively better than urban ones after the coronavirus outbreak. Data analytics firm Nielsen noted that in June 2020, there was a strong bounce-back in sales of FMCG goods across rural and semi-urban markets even as bigger cities saw a decline.  In 2021 too, the sales revival in Bharat may continue outpacing that of India. 

Partly, this is attributed to the severity of the pandemic in urban zones whereas Bharat faced relatively less stringent lockdowns. Also, the reverse migration of workers to their native places would have increased rural demand. Though most workers are said to have later returned to the cities, some preferred to stay back. These trends could continue to play out in 2021. 

Deploying Digital

Given the pandemic-linked disruptions to supply chains, FMCG players deployed digital technologies in a big way to drive BCPs (business continuity plans). Having learnt the benefits of e-commerce, FMCG entities are expected to maintain their digital presence even after normalcy is restored and COVID-19 comes under control. The shock of the pandemic has made it clear that an omni-channel approach of physical plus digital sales is the best way to drive BCPs in case of any future disruptions. 

In 2021, FMCG companies will need to invest in tech tools that enable e-ordering, e-invoicing as well as e-collections via digital payment platforms. Innovations in digital would be the way forward in overcoming sudden disruptions in supply chains. Keeping this in mind, a global food company is aiming to create a mobile application that could serve as a digital sales model. Rather than sending its reps into the market, it is seeking to find solutions allowing retailers to place orders directly via WhatsApp, mobile or an app. 

A Deloitte Consumer Tracker survey indicates there is a rising shift towards BOPIS (buy online pickup in-store), besides the growth in pure-play online purchases and deliveries. The main motivators: safetyand the option of browsing through entire product portfolios more efficiently from the comfort and convenience of one’s home. 

Moreover, even as most economies continue facing headwinds and muted consumer demand, the FMCG sector will see sustained growth in select segments. For instance, consumers are raising spends on health, hygieneand nutritional products,including packaged goods. As people prefer staying indoors to avoid the risk of infection, e-commerce is their first choice in purchasing products. 

The changing consumer patterns are due to mounting awareness about immunity-boosting products and those deemed safe, against the backdrop of coronavirus concerns. Accordingly, companies would need to tweak their product portfolios and distribution strategies. 

As we welcome 2021, the focus on consumer data, behaviour trends and digitalisation must continue. In the months ahead, demand-driven supply will count more than supply-side drivers. In the post-COVID era, consumers would undoubtedly continue calling the shots in driving FMCG sales. 
 

 

The outbreak of COVID-19 has further heightened consumers’ awareness of sustainability and health.

Growing Consumer Interest in Sustainability and Health 

According to Mintel’s Global COVID-19 Tracker, 87 percent of Indian consumers have indicated that environmental issues have become a higher or lower priority for them – second only to eating healthily. Meanwhile, Mintel Global Consumer research shows that 78 percent of South Korean consumers would like to see more innovative environment-friendly products, and 90 percent of consumers in Japan think it is important to manage their emotional wellbeing.

Therefore, how to share and showcase sustainability initiatives and precisely respond to consumer’s health needs is one of the most important factors for brands to engage consumers now and in the years to come.

Haircare, Clean and Green Beauty Drive Innovation and New Experiences 

Consumers are always ready to embrace new concepts and experience new products, regardless of how the market changes. China’s haircare market has maintained steady growth over the past five years with a compound average growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8 percent, according to Mintel research. 

Haircare products’ import value in the first half of the year increased by 21 percent, compared with the same period the previous year. Interest in haircare is continuously growing among Chinese consumers, with many haircare brands taking inspiration from the skincare industry and innovating around textures and ingredients.

Moreover, Mintel Global Consumer research indicates that 75 percent of consumers in Australia and New Zealand love trying new experiences. As competition for clean and green beauty continues to grow, especially from Western markets, ANZ beauty brands should work harder for their consumers and lean into expertise to stand out in the congested beauty market, rather than just focusing on clean or proving dermatological efficacy or safety.

Angelia Teo, Research Manager, Mintel Beauty & Personal Care, Asia Pacific, said: “The beauty and personal care industry in Asia Pacific has taken a hard hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Consumer attitudes and behaviours have shifted as a result and the industry has faced unprecedented challenges, but also opportunities. Innovation is also flourishing in the sector. In our annual Asia Pacific Beauty and Personal Landscape, we’ve focused on the evolution of consumer trends and market opportunities for brands.”

 

2020 has been a rollercoaster year for a good number of industries and activewear is no exception.

According to the research data analyzed and published by Comprar Acciones, the market is estimated to be worth $353.45 billion in 2020. It is projected to grow at a 3.7 percent CAGR in the period between 2020 and 2026, to reach $439.17 billion by the end of the duration.

For the key players in the industry, the challenging year has left little option but to adapt. One of the recent trends for top activewear players is a shift to direct-to-consumer sales.

According to the NPD, online sales of activewear will account for 40 percent of all sales in 2020, a new high.

NIKE - For Nike, the top sportswear brand globally, there was a 75 percent increase in online sales during its fiscal Q4, which ended in June 2020. At the time, the brand closed 90 percent of physical stores. For the first time, e-commerce revenue accounted for 30 percent of its total revenue.

During the three-month period which ended on August 31, 2020, Nike’s online sales rose once again, this time by 82 percent. This took place although retail outlets had reopened.

Thanks to the surge in e-commerce, the company offset losses as annual sales only dropped by 5 percent. From $39.1 billion in fiscal 2019, it dropped to $37.4 billion during fiscal 2020 according to its earnings report.

Total revenue for fiscal Q1 2021 amounted to $10.6 billion, with $1.5 billion as net profit. Despite having shed over 40 percent in March 2020, Nike’s stock is up by 40.79 percent year-over-year (YoY) as of December 11, 2020 and 35.80 percent year-to-date (YTD).

 ADIDAS - At the height of the pandemic, Adidas closed down over 70 percent of its retail stores. As a result, its revenue for H1 2020 sank by 27 percent to $9.81 billion.

During the three-month period which ended on September 30, 2020, its revenue amounted to $7.01 billion. Operating profit fell by 12 percent during the quarter to $934 million while net profit totaled $677 million.

Despite the overall drop in revenue, Adidas online sales increased by 93 percent in Q2 2020 alone. In April and May 2020, growth accelerated at a triple-digit rate. During Q3, online sales surged by 51 percent.

PUMA - On the other hand, Puma’s operating profit had grown sevenfold and its annual sales had doubled in the six-year period leading up to 2020. However, during Q1 2020, its net profit fell by 61.6 percent YoY to $39.1 million against $1.4 billion in total sales. E-commerce sales for the period rose by 40 percent. By Q3 2020, however, the situation had improved with sales rising by 13 percent to $1.87 billion and operating profit by 17 percent to $223 million. Notably, direct-to-consumer sales grew by 60.9 percent during the period.

Overall, Puma saw total e-commerce sales for the first nine months of 2020 grow by an impressive 66.5 percent.

UNDER ARMOUR - For Under Armour, the three-month period which ended on September 30, 2020 saw wholesale revenue drop by 7 percent to $830 million. However, like the other activewear giants, the company saw direct-to-consumer sales rise by 17 percent to $540 million. Its revenue for the period was $1.43 billion with $38.9 million as net profit.

US Athleisure Items to Account for 31 Percent of Apparel Sales in December 2020

Besides embracing direct-to-consumer sales, dominant sportswear brands are also capitalizing on the thriving athleisure market.

According to NPD, athleisure items like sweatpants and sweatshirts are projected to account for 31 percent of total apparel spending in the US during the 2020 holiday season. Comparatively, the segment had a 26 percent share in the 2019 holiday season.

OLD NAVY -  According to the company’s earnings report, Old Navy had an increase of 55 percent in the activewear segment. The reason for this was that more customers wanted comfortable clothing as they spend more time indoors.

ATHLETA - Athleta, Gap’s brand for female workout clothes, similarly recorded an increase of 35 percent in net sales. On the other hand, Banana Republic, famed for work apparel, had a decline of 34 percent in net sales.

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH - Abercrombie & Fitch has also experienced success with Gilly Hicks, which sells women’s loungewear and bras. During the most recent quarter, it saw a double-digit increase in sales as online sales soared over 100 percent.

In a bid to get a share of the pie, Kohl’s is planning to launch a brand known as FLX for active apparel in 2021.

The US athleisure market is estimated to reach $105.1 billion in sales in 2020 according to Euromonitor and Coresight. Compared to 2019, that would be a 9.2 percent decrease, attributed to the pandemic and reduced in-store shopping. However, the two forecast a rebound in 2021, projecting that the sector will grow by 7.9 percent YoY.
 

 

Snacking around the world, which was already a rapidly increasing behavior, has only accelerated as consumers spend more time at home. At the same time, the majority of respondents see snacking as a growing part of their everyday lives in the future

Almost 9 in 10 global adults (88 percent) say they are snacking more (46 percent) or the same (42 percent) during the pandemic than before, with millennials and those who are working from home right now being especially likely to say they prefer snacks over meals (70 percent and 67 percent, respectively), says The 2020 State of Snacking Report by Mondelēz International and The Harris Poll.

The 2020 State of Snacking Report underlines the growth in snacking worldwide and how behavior, sentiment and routines surrounding food are being reshaped by COVID-19.

The report informs the company’s strategy to bite into the $1.2 trillion total snack industry as it continues to lead the future of snacking by delivering the right snack, for the right moment, made the right way.

“Findings from our State of Snacking report reinforce the key role that snacking plays in the lives of global consumers, the growing importance of snacking during 2020 and the moments of peace it provides as individuals and families stay home and continue to face challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dirk Van de Put, Chairman and CEO of Mondelēz International. “As we empower people to snack right, we are proud of the role we play in the lives of consumers everywhere by delivering sources of comfort, connection and community that are difficult to find in this year of isolation.”

“The results of our State of Snacking survey not only underscore the value snacking brings to families and individuals, but help us to even better understand the evolving needs of our consumers worldwide so that we can continue to adapt and offer them the snacks they want, where, when and how they want them,” Van de Put added.

Important Source of Comfort, Connection and Community

Comfort is the #1 driver of snacking this year, as more than half of global adults have been buying nostalgic snack brands from childhood (53 percent) and snacks that bring back good memories (59 percent) during the pandemic. 
Two-thirds say snack time is one of the few moments of peace (64 percent) and bright spots in their day (63 percent), including three-quarters of parents who are working from home (76 percent and 75 percent, respectively).

Snacking also offers bite-sized moments of satisfaction and peace, with a majority of respondents noting it has helped distract them from a trying year.

66 percent noted that “Snacking is one of the few sources of reward and satisfaction in my day,” while 65 percent believe that snacking has given them much needed moments to themselves over the past few months.

Health and Wellness Remain Top of Mind

As snacking increases, so too does the focus on healthy products and ingredients. More than half of global adults have relied on snacks for nourishment during the pandemic (54 percent), attesting that snacks have been nourishing to their body, mind, and soul during these strange times (64 percent).

A majority are also more mindful snacking at home, saying they are more focused on the snacks they eat these days (57 percent), and that they have more control over the portions they eat because they are snacking at home more often (66 percent).

Changing Purchasing Behaviour

Virtual snack shopping has reached a tipping point, with almost of half of respondents buying online

Half of global adults say they have started to buy snacks online more often than they do in-store or offline (47 percent), with 7 in 10 planning to continue shopping for snacks online once the pandemic is over (69 percent).

A majority say the pandemic has opened their eyes to so many more ways to get snacks than they knew existed before (57 percent), including 3 in 10 who have discovered snacks to try on social media (28 percent).

 

Necessity is the mother of invention, no doubt this is the hard time and the time which will lead to new possibilities, innovation, and development in this field. This pandemic COVID-19 had completely turn-around the global economy. From the local to international business, each field of the service provider is facing the impacts of this epidemic. The Indian mattress industry has also not untouched by its impact. Though the mattress industry had been waiting for the silver lining since the last year and now dark clouds of the pandemic had made the vision smoggier.

As per the recent announcement, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman may announce the stimulus for the hard-hit sectors of the economy due to the COVID-19 situation. According to media reports, the government is looking at the stress in various sectors including, the health and allied sectors. The mattress industry may get a silver lining over this dark cloud, impacts are visible on the retail sector but the silver lining has shown some hope through e-commerce. As per the belief of humanity where there’s a will there's a way, similarly, the Indian mattress industry is coping up with covid-19 and diligently working to mitigate its impact.

Here is a SWOT Analysis for a better understanding of this matter.

S- Strength

Indian mattress industry’s strength is that it is aware and understands the need of the consumer and works accordingly. Following are the focus points which work as strength for the industry.

The industry is very conscious about safety, health, and hygiene. Factories and offices are taking preventive measures to maintain proper safety and hygiene.

Evolving preferences and tastes of consumers strengthen the demand for mattresses and bedding products.

WFH culture has somehow strengthened the market as people tend to work for more hours and with discomforts but by buying proper mattress line they have increased the demand and taken care of themselves.

Lifestyle change is a root of several diseases such as arthritis, backache, spine, and joint-related problems which drives demand for better quality and comfortable products.

W- Weakness

Indian mattress Industry may dive into deep loss if the retail sector stays in bad condition for longer. The industry believes in to find and look for ways to turn a weakness into an opportunity. So, the industry is doing it in the following manner.

The shift in consumer preferences is one of the major weaknesses but again the industry has taken this as an opportunity and this change in preferences has led to progression and impacted the quality of the mattress positively.

Though retail is restricted due to a pandemic but e-commerce is showing a ray of hope which is not only convenient but also correct as per government restriction and appropriate according to the need of an hour.

O- Opportunities

Following are the opportunities for the Indian mattress industry-

With the help of extensive and in-depth ortho and body-needs-based research, mattresses are diversified as per the need of consumers.

Through Technology, the uniqueness of mattresses has been maintained such as protection from dermo-allergies.

The Paradigm shift towards modern orthopedic mattresses, attract consumers for their health and durability perspective.

GST factor has also formalised the economy and it shows a dynamic shift in business from unorganised to organised providers.

Government initiatives for housing for all also contributed by giving a boost to mattress consumption and the industry as well.

An increase in consumerism, demand, and consumption of comfort by consumers of this age i.e. millennials and generation z give a spike to the modern market

T- Threats

Elements which are coming up as a threat or challenges for the Indian mattress industry are the following-

Bleeker outlook of consumers on their financial conditions is a big threat. To deal with financial stress, the mattress companies are exploring EMI options for not only industries but also for smaller standalone.

Lack of consumer awareness and transportation is also a major threat because long-distance warehousing of these items becomes infeasible. Though the industry is dealing with these challenges by shifting from retail to e-commerce.

Conclusion

During these corona times, the utmost priority of the Indian mattress industry is to stand shoulder to shoulder for spreading awareness, comfort and to provide safe & sound sleep to buyers.

 

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has led to a shift in consumer behavior even when it comes to their snacking preferences. This resulted in overnight innovation in the snack food market, which comprises salty snacks, confectionery, baked snacks, and frozen snacks. The need to eat healthy food, environmental concerns, convenience, affordability, and at the same time trying out something unique are the factors that would drive the growth of the snacking industry in 2020.

Many emerging markets rise to the top of those with an increased appetite for snacks. Seeing sales growth in non-essential categories, like snacks, is a good indicator that consumers in these countries are ready and able to spend beyond the bare necessities, marking an incredible opportunity for FMCG companies in these markets, despite the pay-cut or job loss because of the COVID-19.

Here are some of the trend spotlights:

Healthy at convenience

Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, stroke, and heart attacks are estimated to contribute to 73% of all deaths. Governments around the world have implemented taxes, campaigns, labeling, and advertising reforms to help consumers make healthier food choices. And, COVID-19 has also made the urgent need of shifting towards healthier snacking options. People are becoming mindful snackers and are also looking for clean labels. Companies are in the process to adjust their action plans in addressing these rapidly increasing consumer needs. The good news is, this healthy food trend is creating new opportunities within snacking and adjacent categories.

On-the-go snacking products

Portability has become one of the main criteria of consumers, who are either working from home or leading a busy schedule. However, on-the-go snacking could be a concern when it comes to sustainability, due to their disposable nature and use of excess packaging. But, many companies are dealing with this major concern to shrink by deciding to produce minimum packaging waste. They have introduced recyclable and biodegradable packaging solutions. Many companies have been urging the consumers to send back the wrapper or the bottle of their company’s location and for that, they are attaching an envelope with their address mentioned in it. It has been seen that almost 40 percent of wasted fruit and vegetables are “imperfect” produce that has been turned away by supermarkets for not complying with cosmetic standards. As a result, snacking companies are also working to reduce food waste. For example, an emerging snacking brand in the UK launched a new range of crisps made from surplus fruit and vegetables, as it aims to give value to oddly shaped, discolored, or blemished fruits and vegetables.

Plant-based snacking

There has been a rise in plant-based diet among consumers in the past few years and the snacking sector has also modified their ingredients according to the consumers’ growing preferences. The global plant-based snacks market was valued at USD 34.69 billion in 2019 and is forecast to reach USD 73.61 billion by 2028, according to Future Market Insights. From vegan jerky, almond milk yogurt, to vegan protein bars, the plant-based snacking market is going through a plethora of innovations to cash in on the trend. They are targeting health-conscious consumers.  Conventional crisp-making methods, such as deep-frying, have been replaced with a trend for popped and puffed crisps. Popped and puffed snacks often use ‘healthier’ ingredients such as seaweed, lentils, chickpeas, and seeds.

Way forward

The FMCG landspace is going through a major transformation in the past few months. Due to the coronavirus pandemic and even after the pandemic subsides, the trend of healthy eating is going to stay for a longer time because consumers have understood that nothing is precious than their wellbeing. The vending industry is one of the most affected industry because most of the snack vending machines are set up either in offices or metro stations. Though metro stations are operational now, many offices are still shut. According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global snack food market is expected to grow from USD 210.4 billion in 2019 to USD 215.9 billion in 2020 at a CAGR of 2.7%. This low growth is down to an economic slowdown across countries affected by Covid-19.

 

In recent months, the COVID-19 pandemic has managed to transform how people live, shop, and interact with others. They are cautious about being socially active and disclaimer to follow social distancing, using sanitizers, wearing masks, etc. have somehow become a part and parcel of life now, gradually preparing everyone to brace for the ‘new normal’.

While the pandemic has affected business operations in almost every industry globally, e-commerce platforms are adopting new technologies in order to keep up with consumer needs and offer a hassle-free shopping experience. In India, many e-commerce furniture platforms are witnessing huge shifts in consumer behavior and frequently changing business trends. Let us explore how this pandemic is changing the e-commerce furniture industry.

COVID-19 shifting consumer behavior

According to an IBEF industry research report, Indian e-commerce was expected to grow to USD 200 billion by 2026. However, the lockdown, followed by unlocking phases saw the market landscape and demands of costumers indicating a huge rise, signifying that the sector will hit expected figures much sooner. Here are some basic consumer behavior changes that have been reported in the last few months through different surveys:

• 8 in 10 buyers have switched their shopping habits
• Over 70% of people are ordering products online that they were purchasing normally from stores
• Approximately 5 in 10 shoppers hesitate to visit stores now
• 80% of retailers believe that the virus spread has a deep impact on customer response
• 30% of businesses expect that the pandemic will cause their e-commerce establishment to grow

Among all this, a major setback being observed is a pause in production and diminished labor force after the lockdown. Some believe that these changes are temporary; with time the community will move swiftly beyond the survival mode and digital adaptation will bring huge transformations in the coming years.

New emerging world order in retail

Brands can no longer wait for the lockdown to be lifted completely and rely entirely on offline presence. They have to adjust to new norms of online marketing, a perspective that can increase sales and convert buyers. Retailers switching to online platforms should upgrade to an omnichannel ecosystem and propose innovative shopping experience by interpreting new buying behavior, and reallocate resources. So far, Coronavirus has disturbed the entire structure of how things were working conventionally. Like many others, the situation with the furniture industry is also changing.

Shutdowns, slow manufacturing, dump inventories, etc. in countries like China, Italy, and India during this pandemic have become common. Luckily, things are getting back on track as every country is recovering at its own pace from the crisis. India has stopped using, buying, and collaborating with Chinese products to benefit local brands while championing the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, part of Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.

E-commerce: A boon

E-commerce is now being widely considered a blessing during this pandemic. Companies that have an established online portal for furniture shopping gained huge benefits in fulfilling customer needs. Those who recently invested in digital platforms with an online presence are also trying to survive. According to some market survey reports, almost 33% surveyed said they avoid offline stores, while a significant percentage said they’ll avoid such stores in the future.

This is the time furniture brands, manufacturers, and retailers need to develop an effective supply chain response to alleviate risk and face any interruptions in the future.

Good time to make an online presence

The seriousness of the virus has urged people to stay home, leading to an increase in online sales. In the future, a boost in e-commerce growth rates is expected as online marketplaces will be less impacted than offline retailers. According to the SaaS platform provider, Quantum Metric, online sales increased 52% compared with the same time frame a year ago. Additionally, the number of online shoppers has increased by 8.8% since the pandemic began, pointing towards the increasing presence of online customers.

Be it a furniture brand or a retailer, it’s important to ensure that the website is equipped with features that can help in connecting the gap between online-offline like customization, 360-views, high-quality zoom-in facility, detailed shots, and much more.

Technology is boss

These days, technology is enabling working-from-home, impacting communication with friends, colleagues, and family, and becoming an integral part of online shopping. The latest addition is augmented reality (AR), an important component of online shopping through which buyers can make decisions from the comfort of home.

Alternative to the offline furniture market

The growing concerns around COVID-19 in India and other countries have induced big changes for customers and businesses. Every seller is seeking to provide a better customer experience and showcasing their products through virtual formats. Digital activities like podcasts, webinars, virtual product tours, showroom presentations, etc. have entered the realm of ‘new normal’ in the world, marking a tipping point for the adaption of e-commerce.

What’s next?

Today, we've learned that technology has made lives easier and better during this challenging time. With unlocking, the demand for furniture, appliances, electronics, etc. began to increase. However, people are spending money carefully and avoiding crowds, resulting in more online purchases.

In a nutshell, technology and the COVID-19 pandemic have affected the global economy considerably. Every business around the globe is unfolding to accept this situation, and websites are taking over offline stores. Thus, the only available option for business survival during such times is to prioritize digital merchandising, stay strong, and mark an effective online presence.

 

Have you been bitten by the digital bug? Are you looking to translate your current skills and knowledge into the virtual world? Perhaps you have grown disheartened with the current state of affairs within the traditional retail marketplace. These are some of the most compelling reasons why the online community holds a wealth of opportunities.

This is particularly the case if you have experience with online gaming platforms and you are a budding developer. However, there is a major issue that needs to be overcome. While you might very well have developed some of the most exciting games, these will never appeal to the audience if they are not promoted in the correct manner. So, what are some of the steps that you should take if you hope to reach your intended customer base? How does website design come into play and why does partnering with an e-commerce platform often represent the best choice? Let's take a look at these questions to get a better understanding of what is in store.

A Picture Speaks More than 1,000 Words

The online community is a very visual world. Some of the most successful gaming websites are understandably associated with a clear and attractive layout. So, be sure to take a look at portals such as comeon casino India and others. What do they all share in common? You will likely notice a handful of characteristics including:

• A clear and concise layout
• A compelling call to action (such as to sign up or to play for free)
• Quick navigation between pages
• A mobile responsive website design

We need to keep in mind that it only takes a matter of seconds for a visitor to decide whether or not she wishes to explore your website in greater detail. So, first impressions are incredibly important.

Why Leverage the Power of an E-Commerce Provider?

Of course, many game developers are not entirely familiar with the world of enterprise e-commerce. This is why working in synergy with a reputable provider is often the best way to take the guesswork out of the equation. Furthermore, the utilities and tools supplied by these platforms are much more functional when compared to those associated with free hosting services such as WordPress.

E-commerce providers can likewise offer a host of ancillary benefits such as:

• A centralised means to monitor your ongoing marketing campaigns.
• Drag-and-drop website templates.
• Secure point-of-sale systems.
• The ability to accept a host of different payment options.
• 24/7 customer support if you happen to run into a problem.

Although a quality e-commerce provider will require some type of paid monthly subscription, the fact of the matter is that this small financial commitment will ensure quality results.

On a final note, creating a successful gaming website will take time, effort, and patience. This is why you should always be realistic with your expectations. Results will undoubtedly follow in the near future.

 

The personal care industry is itself undergoing a makeover. The evergreen segment has witnessed many high-profile acquisitions last year. Thanks to the technology and product innovations, the sector is on a roll since virtual try-on and online marketplaces have entered the picture. As per a report, the global skin care products market size was valued at 134.8 billion in 2018. It is now expected to expand with a CAGR of 4.4% from 2019 to 2025 due to the rapidly growing global cosmetics industry. Rising demand for sunscreen, lotions, and face creams is further projecting affirmative outcomes.

According to Zion Market Research, the global beauty industry is pegged to reach $863 billion by 2024. The craze to look flawless is one of the biggest driving forces of the market which, despite being highly saturated, is proving to be one of the best investment bets for market players. However, increased awareness and emphasis on health are driving favorable figures this year.

Here’s how the future of the personal care industry will look like:

‘Hygiene’ to get due attention

With a clear focus on health in the years to come, the industry is expected to move towards hygiene and personal care items. Besides, health experts have repeatedly urged the populace to practice good hand hygiene since the coronavirus outbreak unleashed. The pandemic swelled the sales and prices of hand sanitizers across international markets with demand exceeding supply in the online as well as offline stores. The industry, which was valued at USD 2.7 billion in 2019, is now anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 22.6% from 2020 to 2027.

Products with natural goodness

Skincare accounts for approx. 45% of the overall cosmetic product’s sales. Going by the survey conducted this May (by digital marketing firm Bazaarvoice and the online product review platform Influenster), two-thirds of the women want greater transparency when it comes to labeling clean products. It reveals a growing appetite for ingredient transparency as people are consistently refraining from using chemical, paraben, and sulfate-laden products. Users are gradually inclining towards brands that are using naturally sourced or plant-based constituents for skincare routines. The reason is that such products do not harm the skin anatomy while providing the power of antioxidant-rich superfoods.

Specific products for millennials and Gen Z

Rather than using the one-size-fits-all strategy, the personal care industry will see a segmentation targeting Generation X, Y, and Z as per their unique needs. Millennials and Gen Zers are trendsetters responsible for steering many revolutionary changes at various stages, be it against single-use plastic or rooting for workplace inclusions. Hence, addressing the skincare woes of this demographic becomes a necessity. We will see different products concocted to suit the distinct skin requirements of both generations.

More emphasis on marketing digitally

By this time, we all know how crucial social media is in bringing visibility and followership for a business. More than half of the world uses social media or networking platforms. Moreover, it allows companies to access precious data that contains information about customers' present buying behavior and preferences. The data enables brands to engineer a product and formulate the right products, campaigns, and messaging to attract or mold consumer’s opinion in favor of their new offering or an ingredient. Hence, we can expect digital marketing to take the lead over traditional forms in the years to come.

Gender-neutral products

Historically, women are seen as the face of beauty products. The trend is likely to change for the good in the future. We might bid goodbye to this era of gender-based biases as grooming is equally important to both the sexes. Today, leading cosmetics companies are roping in male ambassadors to market their products. Dismantling stereotypes, the lines between men and women will blur with the beauty and fashion industry becoming fluid with its approach. So, we may soon not see ‘For Women’ or ‘For Men’ tags below the packaging at all.

Eco-friendly Outlook

Research says that the vegan and environmentally sustainable market is set to reach USD 20.8 billion by 2025 worldwide. Consumers are trying to stay clear of goods that are sourced from unethical means and are embracing cruelty-free and vegan products. In fact, vegan products are gaining popularity because of their superior content.

Technology will be at the forefront of the personal care industry. With AI- and ML-integrated IoT devices being developed, data will take the centre stage in deciding the personal skincare routines for individuals based on their skin analysis. Personalization will rule the beauty industry with sensitive messaging and sans creating the divide based on cultural diversity. The omnichannel approach will seamlessly integrate experience and sales for both customers and retailers. The future of the personal care industry is indeed open, exciting, and rife with new opportunities.

 

Today, maternity clothing is much more reflective of personal style and differs from person to person. The baby-doll dresses of the '60s to sheer ensembles worn by modern celebrities, the maternity fashion has changed over the years.

Being a woman takes a lot of coconuts. But we understand the need to be comfortable and confident, no matter what changes your body is going through. These days there is no need to conceal your bump and women wear fashionable maternity clothes that flatter your shape throughout your nine months of pregnancy. We all want maternity look like Anushka Sharma, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Blake Lively, and Angelina Jolie while taking a stroll in the streets or dipping in the pool. 

We are here to sort your maternity wardrobe by putting these trendy, flattering, and unique options together that’ll help you maintain your personal style throughout your nine months.

Night scenes

Eye-catching prints and patterns will lend a playful feel to your maternity wardrobe. Your growing shape can let you carry off maximalist motifs like wide stripes, intricate prints, bold animal designs for the night party scene. Keep a bold Lipper and accessory understated.

10 to 6 sorted

Whether you choose primary brights or pretty pastel, stick to just one striking piece and team it up with neutral tomes of effortless elegance while at work. During this time, every woman needs a few cool cover-ups in their wardrobe for work. Front open, biker jacket, cape, or blazer can work with myriad outfits and will be on high rotation in your line-up of maternity looks.

“Over the years, the trend of maternity wear has changed with more and more women wanting to flaunt their bump rather than hiding it. Earlier, the mindset was to hide the bump by wearing loose and bigger size clothes which have now changed and women want to be more fashionable be it at work or outings. During pregnancy women go through a lot of changes and dressing well helps them gain more self-confidence,” shares Master Franchisee Seraphine India, Rajat Kapoor.

90’s style

If you ask any pregnant woman what is the one maternity piece that she can’t live without, the answer will definitely be denim overalls. They never went out of style, even princess Diana herself wore one. This trend is timeless and really compliments maternity wear in so many ways. You can choose a short or a long one with a shirt underneath and some cool kicks or even a long-sleeved one for a full denim look.

Active wear

The mommy-to-be should always feel the optimal comfort and light support while exercising during pregnancy. The active wear during maternity must fit well, flatter your body, and is perfect for growing bump. The London-based maternity brand, Isabella Oliver offers a wide variety for the mommy tribe to look chic and relaxed at the same time while they workout.

Go casual and breezy

At the time when your body is changing month-by-month, shoes, bags, and jewels offer an easy way to tap into new season trends. Whatever trimester it is, the right finishing touches can take a look from simple to standout. Jeans and lower are slightly difficult at the time of growing bump but brands like Seraphine which is even Royal’s favorite, the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, and adored by celebs like Angelina Jolie, Jennifer garner offers a wide selection of breezy and casual yet stylish maternity staples. Go for a flattering wrap dress with an adjustable belt which can also be helpful in nursing later.

 

The CoronaVirus pandemic has had sweeping repercussions on all sectors of the economy worldwide. However, the sectors that will be extremely hard hit are the ones that come in the category of non-essential spending. Design Apparel and footwear definitely come in this category. At the Milan Fashion Week this February, Giorgio Armani chose to live-stream his new collection rather than invite visitors – a direct offshoot of the rampant spread of positively tested cases in Italy. Let us look closely at the UK retail sector, since the UK is a country that attracts billions of tourists from across the globe every year; London is known to be the hub of cultural and commercial activity with maximum retail sales in the European region. It is now estimated that the apparel sector in the UK will be the worst hit with a decline in spending by 1/5th or 20.6 % less than the usual spending. Sales of clothing and footwear in the UK alone are expected to decline by GBP 11.1 billion, which is the equivalent of US $ 13.06 billion.

In other words, it is the equivalent of the combined clothing sales of the 3 market leaders – Primark, Marks & Spenser and Next. All 376 Primark stores spread out in 12 countries have been closed until further notice. Primark – owner, ABF (Associated British Foods) stated that this would account for a loss of some US $ 751.5 million of net sales per month. Nike, Gap and H&M are temporarily suspending online operations and have closed down their retail outlets in an attempt to curb the spread of the lethal Corona virus. 

Asia, which is mainly the hub of production for garments and footwear has exhibited a knee jerk reaction and is predicted to go through some devastating consequences in so far as its fashion and design industry is concerned. Manufacturing units that deal with materials, which were up until now being sourced from China, are in a dire situation.

The Indian government has given strict directives saying that the workers cannot be terminated nor should there be a reduction in their wages. The partial lockdown of factories in Bangladesh has had enormous ramifications; the 1000 factories which have been locked down are the source of livelihood to 1.96 million workers, reporting a loss of a business to the tune of US $2.67 billion in cancelled orders from retailers and brands, which have witnessed a rapid plummeting of sales and have more recently closed down stores in the US and across Europe.

The virus has coerced the world’s fashion capital New York to come to an abrupt halt. The US jeans giant Wrangler has extended its store closure until 31 March. In Mexico and Central America, the factories are shutting down on account of retail stores suddenly closing their shutters in response to the primary need of the hour – social distancing. Mexico, which had already lost significantly to the US market in the last decade, has predicted a decline in exports by at least 10 percent as its factories, which include fabric and denim giants with the likes of Kaltex cut down on capacity.

The wedding season in India begins in October and continues till early spring. For many, the wedding season goes right up to April. Everyone who is part of the fashion industry looks forward to this season. All the interconnected chains involved like the fashion designer, craftspeople who do the zardozi and dabka embroidery, the daily wage workers etc know that this is their time of the year to make a neat sum that shall support them for the rest of the year. But the Covid-19 and the measures to curb its spread like social distancing have dampened the spirit and sentiment of the wedding market big time. Manish Malhotra, TarunTahiliani and Sabyasachi have shut operations. India Fashion Week that was scheduled to be held in New Delhi from March 11 to March 15 has been postponed. Valmort Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week has been postponed from April to June, given the gravity of the current crisis. It is unlike anything the world has ever witnessed.

It has been forecast that the pandemic is going to peak in April with most stores remaining closed till the end of May. Non – food spending will start to recover only in June but a more regular pre-Corona outbreak spending in the apparel industry is expected to come about only by October 2020.

What has been experienced by the design industry worldwide, in the last two months, is just the beginning of a ripple effect. The COVID-pandemic will alter the complexion of the supply – production chain dynamics. There is, however, no need to panic – it is estimated that shopping online will replace in store shopping, in a huge way, especially for the big brands and international labels.

But before we even talk about the revival of the fashion industry, we need to commend the willingness of some of the biggest names in fashion in Italy and France to step up to the challenge – brands like LVMH and Coty have steered their production lines to manufacture sanitiser in the form of hydro alcoholic gel along with the production of masks. Chanel has contributed its services by moving to production of  masks and gowns while Armani to make surgical Overalls. Prada is contributing by making facial covers  for donation.H&M is working to make personal protective equipment for hospitals in Europe.

These gestures are what make the fashion and design industry problem solvers and come together as one unified global conglomerate ready to wage a war on the pandemic.

 

 

As millennial women become moms, there is a significant shift in how they pursue their pregnancies. Years ago, pregnancy belly was a thing to hide under oversized clothes and dupattas, but not any more. The women becoming mothers today are confident of their bodies, they are choosing when to have their children and they are also enjoying the pregnancy and motherhood period. They do not merely depend on traditional wisdom but strike a balance with research and are fully aware of their situation as young moms. This shift is also seen in their choices that they make as expectant or nem moms- their dressing sense, their purchase behavior and how they wish to raise their children.

According to reports, the maternity wear industry in India had estimated at Rs 2,000 crores in 2017 growing at a CAGR of15-17% per annum. Among the apparel segments, innerwear appears to be a potential growth category across all categories. Maternity wear have made persistent inroads in India over the last few years, segmenting into pre-natal and post-natal clothing and accessories. Besides, women in the country have also started accepting maternity wear not as a luxury, but as a basic need. They believe in the idea of pampering oneself during the most beautiful period, i.e. motherhood.

Trendy mother on the go

Pre- and post-pregnancy is a period when a woman's body goes through tremendous changes. With these constant changes in woman’s body size and shape, appropriate maternity outfits are a must-have for every mom-to-be to ensure the level of comfortability. Women don’t have to compromise on fashion in order to have a comfortable pregnancy. While many brands have realized this gap and have launched a host of maternity apparel, this category is still fairly small in India, but picking up at great speed.

Innovation in maternity clothing

Maternity wear can be divided into two major categories- pregnancy and nursing wear. While they can be one or both, nursing wear allows women to comfortably work (at home or otherwise) while being able to nurse comfortably or pump. A lot of women need to be in friendlier clothes when they spend hours away from their child at work and need to pump at office. Having nursing friendly attire can make this much easier. There is also a plethora of variety in nursing wear i.e. bras to tank tops, sleep bras to shapewear, nursing pads, comfortable underwear etc. available, considering the changes a woman’s body undergoes post-pregnancy. The intent is most important to bring the ‘comfort factor’ which fits the changing needs of the mother’s body and skin-like feel of the fabrics.

Prominent factors behind the growth

Most pregnancy wear focuses on comfort and functionality but that doesn’t restrict to only pregnancy or nursing wear. Most of these apparel can be worn well after this period as well, the only differentiating factor is the comfort that these attires bring along which becomes a significant purchase driver due to pregnancy and nursing stages. This growing awareness is primarily from the market in the West, penetration of social media, nuclear families, higher discretionary spending and high disposable incomes have led to the growth of the maternity wear segment in India. Some other significant factors facilitating this trend are financial independence, emergent women workforce and affordability, among other things. Also, smaller family sizes have made each pregnancy special for today’s mothers, and they would like to live to the hilt during this time. Other factors like influences from the big screen and social media have also added to the growth of this segment.

The surge in the graph

Such upswing in the revenue graph indicated that the maternity care products industry in India is transforming drastically from a small-time interest market into a growing commercial sector. The market which was earlier unorganized has now turned into an organized segment primarily concentrated amongst the giant retail stores and leading manufacturing brands who are willing to expand their operations and capture the untapped market. The industry is further expanding by adding several other baby-care needs such as diaper bags, nursing pillows, baby apparel, baby accessories, dinner sets, baby bedding and blankets. The overall per capita spend on mom, and child care has grown primarily due to emerging categories in the market, and the price has not deterred the movement. On an average, the mass market, which is 52-53 per cent of India’s population is spending 1-1.5 lakh in 4 years of parenting and childcare when they’re raising a kid and living through the pregnancy journey. These are just ballpark figures which have led the mom and the childcare market to be as large as a US $ 74 billion in India today between products and services put together. This is growing at about 30-35 per cent on a year-on-year basis.

Conclusion

The market of maternity wear looks quite lucrative, holding immense potential of providing better choices of apparels and essentials for new mommies to make their motherhood most memorable. Moreover, it also empowers pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to make them feel confident, beautiful, and happy.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has created multiple fundamental changes in consumer behavior, some short term while some longer lasting than others. In order to equip businesses with the necessary knowledge to build for new path-to-purchase journeys,Facebook along with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) came out with a consumer sentiment survey, titled ‘Turn the Tide’, which aims to serve as a reference point on consumer insights, trends, and guidance for the industry, brands, and agencies as they begin to negotiate the commencement of operations. Now, Facebook and BCG have delved into how the spending sentiment is translating differently across categories, and provides recommendations for businesses to build for new path-to-purchase journeys.

Apparel, a popular product category has witnessed weaker consumer spending sentiment due to the financial uncertainty amid COVID-19. According to the report, Apparel is one of the ‘shrinking’ categories as consumers facing or expecting a crunch in their income increasingly prioritize essential goods and services. Additionally, the survey conducted by Facebook and BCG has noted that as consumers are not stepping out of their homes as often, it is bound to have an impact on social occasion clothing requirements.

Here are the key highlights:

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the socio-economic fabric of India in the following ways:

• Focus on health & safety (a 120% spike in online searches on health and immunity in India. 49% consumers intend to buy more vitamins, herbs, health supplements, etc. in the coming days)
• Social distancing and restrictions on movement
• Income uncertainty leading to weak demand
• Re-calibration of consumer priorities leading to weaker consumer spending sentiment for discretionary categories like apparel

7 consumer trends will have an impact on the Apparel category:

• Reversal of Past Trends (Trends that might be seen as temporary)
  1. Trading down and bargain hunting: 32% consumers are planning to trade down while 40% consumers are expecting discounts/ promotions during apparel shopping
  2. Shopping for utility: The number of consumers who shop due to functional reasons are expected to rise significantly
• Acceleration of Existing Trends (High-potential permanent shifts in behavior)
  3. Embracing digital services & experiences: Digital influence in apparel sales to go up to60-65%
  4. Accelerated adoption of e-commerce and O2O: 40%of consumers are planning to increase online spend on apparel
  5. Strive for health and wellness: 1.4xrise in time spent on fitness apps, and an increase indemand for active wear/athleisure
• New Habits (Stickiness of change is yet to be determined)
  6. Remote way of living: 79% consumers are unwilling to go out of their homes, except for work, negatively impacting the social occasion clothing requirement
  7. Superior hygiene and clean living – a new norm: Consumers want retailer to focus on high standards of store hygiene post the pandemic (57% globally) 

In the pre-pandemic scenario, the Apparel category in India was growing steadily and consistently. During 2015-2019, the apparel industry grew at a CAGR of 13%, with 90% of sales being driven via the unorganized sector. 67% of shopping was done through modern trade channels, as compared to just 7% via online channels. Although small, the online channel is growing fast, the online channel grew at a CAGR of 34% from 2015-19.

The new consumer path-to-purchase is dynamic, and filled with opportunities:

Pre-Purchase	Purchase	Post-Purchase
Digital Proliferation with more functional shopping	Expectation of delivering core shopping experience while meeting changing needs	Opportunity to strengthen advocacy to build aspiration

 

The Facebook-Boston Consulting Group recommendations to help brands recover and win through the new normal include:

Pre-purchase

1. Leverage digital capabilities: Nike brought alive its digital capabilities by live streaming workout videos,training programs and expert tips from trainers
2. Build social connect via influencer engagement
3. Create personalised engagement through seasonal/promotion led campaigns
4. Drive digital retargeting
5. Prop up right proposition in messaging: Recognizing consumer needs, formal wear brand Fable Street pivoted to no stain clothing toindicate longer duration clothing

Purchase

6. Win online by reimagining pathways and selling models
7. Bring alive experiences withassisted shopping: Luxury fashion house Burberry leveraged AR/VR for virtual try on and purchase
8. Replicate in-person experiences: Prada used sales associates drivenassisted shopping for product recommendations
9. Re-vamp in-store experiences and institute hygiene &safety measures
10. Optimize portfolio for value creation
11. Relook at the Media Mix Model by aligning with the changing landscape to build efficiency in acquisition

Post-purchase

12. Strengthen consumer engagement through loyalty programs, incentivizing social peer recommendation: Shoppers Stop delivered e-Gift voucher allowing consumersto engage with their loved ones
13. Drive value by repeat purchase and consumer up trade, re-target existing consumers: Lime Road directly offered gold membership with a certainamount of purchase
     

 

 

 

Whilst bricks and mortar videogame stores used to be the big earners, now online subscription models are where major retailers have focused their attention.

Although retail in the gaming industry used to be based around nothing more than casino gift shops and videogame purchases, the state of the market today is radically different. Online gaming retail accounts for a huge, and fairly young, section of the market. Whilst money to be made from consoles was once an enormous money-spinner for gaming companies, now tiny add-on costs are stacking up to create huge profits. The gaming industry is a rapidly changing one. Here are some of the trends that are on the rise right now.

Peer to Peer Retail

There is more of an appetite than ever for video gaming content, with users paying subscriptions to watch their favorite gamers at work.

The peer to peer retail market is likely to continue to grow over the next year, with streaming services such as Twitch gaining popularity. Currently, many users sign up to watch their favorite players demonstrate exactly how to win a game of online poker, or how to defeat a boss on a tricky level. To someone who isn't familiar with the service though, it could be confusing understanding how it generates income.

The opportunities for money-making here are simple; advertising and subscriptions. In the subscription model, users can pay an $8.99 premium to remove all advertisements from their account. Some popular content creators also charge a small fee for extra content, usually $4.99 each month. Advertising is a little less straightforward. Twitch charges companies to place adverts on its homepage and between videos. As an incentive for these adverts to appear in a user's content, Twitch gives each user who reaches $100 worth of 'advert viewing time' per month, a portion of the proceeds. This sharing the wealth model provides Twitch with a stable income, advertisers with access to a unique demographic and content creators a small cut as well.

Game Subscriptions

Much as Twitch operates a largely subscription-based service, so too do many of the game company giants. The reasons for this are twofold. Firstly, the technology for games that worked perfectly as simple CDs in the early 2000s has become far more complex. Now in 2020 games are absolutely huge, require enormous amounts of storage space, and are far too complex to fit onto half a dozen CDs, let alone one. The larger games that were released in the late 2010s as hard copies proved this point, as many bugs were flagged up after just a few weeks of general release. To combat this issue, the ability to download a game and receive regular patches and bug fixes has become the norm.

The second reason that gaming as a service has become popular, is that it is a lot simpler to encourage customers to spend more money. In order for consumers to 'upgrade' their gaming experience beforehand, they would have to go to a game store and purchase a 'stuff pack'. This was often around the $20-$30 price bracket, which was a considerable expense. Now consumers have the option of buying just one item from that stuff pack, for closer to $2, an amount that many people will part with without a second thought. These micro-transactions are quickly becoming an enormous money-spinner for gaming companies.

Cross-Screen Gaming

Cross screen gaming is perhaps less an emerging trend and more a lesson learned. Over the last five years, companies chose to invest a lot of time and money into making their games playable across multiple platforms, perhaps Xbox, Computer, and Mobile phone. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these efforts have not landed well with consumers. It turns out that most frequent gamers use one or two platforms alone to play, generally a console or PC. Although they may well own other devices that are capable of gaming, these are more often used for watching content; for example phone and tablet.

There are a couple of exceptions to the rule of course. Some consoles have incorporated mobile phones as handsets for their games, to allow more players to join in if a household doesn't have multiple controllers. These 'party' games are certainly niche, but a nice that might be worth exploring further. The most useful thing to be taken from this cross-screen experiment though is the voracious appetite for gaming videos. Twitch is further ahead than perhaps anyone with that, but that's not to say there isn't room for competition.

 

 

The novel Coronavirus has dramatically changed things overnight. The pandemic has presented a paradigm shift in consumer behaviour, whether it is with regards tothe daily lifestyle or spending on luxurious goods. Covid-19 has slashed revenues in half for most brands, but the luxury industry still remains hopeful that Chinese consumers will return to their previous levels of consumption soon after the outbreak stabilizes. The pandemic may bring a major change in the consumers' mindset and the value systems that underpin their luxury buying decisions.

According to the recent report by Bain & Company, global luxury sales could drop up to 35% by the end of 2020, this impact may be very subjective in regards of the country or the target population.

Change in Luxury Consumer Behaviour

Brands will focus on keepingthe millennials and Gen Z, who are already quite tech savvy, engaged through the digital platforms; fromshowing off their new collection to unravelling their couture designs. AI will step in to create more personalised experiences for different brands. Online buying will be more attractive in the future. This slowdown is apt for luxury brands to reinvent themselves to digitize their processes and enhance their systems and technology. This will allow them to develop operational efficiencies and provide personalised experiences to the consumers.

Luxury Brands entering into the cycle of innovation

One of the key drivers for brands post the pandemic would be to dive back into the business in full swing. In order to do so, brands will have to revamp their strategies by exploring new product categories at a cheaper price point, or revitalise their brands to bring in new strategies. Completely diversification would be a global trend due to the heightened omni channel approach that brands are already beginning to embrace. The global luxury consumer will see a new era, where luxury brands will explore markets with dual strategies; both at an accessible premium / entry level price point as well as a point where luxury will become more and more exclusive. The middle market consumer will drive sales for brands playing at the lower level whilst niche luxury consumers will become more conscientious towards their purchases.

Based on several factors most brands would adapt to these changes. However, certain brands which come from the old heritage luxury segments, for example, Chanel, Cartier, Patek Philippe and so on, would adopt a restricted approach. They may choose not to completely indulge in too many extensions or offerings post the pandemic, but rather adopt a more minimalistic and conscientious approach to attract their consumers, andconnect with them emotionally. Luxury is all about emotional connect and in order to do so, brands have to steer clear from all activities which signify aggressive sales tactics. Their approach will be to appeal to their consumers by talking about what they are doing to take care of their employees, their consumers and the brand as a whole.

When compared to the heritage brands, modern luxury brands like Armani, Versace, Jimmy Choo, etc, may have a different approach altogether.Theymay introduce varied offerings to keep their consumers interested in them and attract them with new line extensions and products, probably at a cheaper price compared to the previous collections.

The strategies that may be adopted depend on the country of origin of the brand, the type of brand DNA, and the perception it has in the market. Most of all the brand will only go as far as they know would be acceptable to their target consumer. They may not indulge in exploring several opportunities or new endeavours to excite consumers, and rather, focus on the “less is more approach,” as that is what luxury is all about.

A new Era of Phygitization (Physical + Digital)

Post the pandemic, the luxury consumer experience will be like never before. People will want to get back to the brick and mortar retail after over usage of digital platforms in the luxury buying space. However, the prolonged pandemic / lockdown phase has forced brands to explore and adapt to new technologies. Means such as AI technology, easy chat and online interaction options are being widely considered in the luxury consumer service space. A lot of these trends will continue post the pandemic for a very long term and some of them might end up becoming permanent means to keep the consumer-brand connect alive and relevant.

Brands are constantly updating their social media and other digital platforms, the way they would change store windows to adapt to seasons. There is a constant dialogue between the brand and the consumer today, whether it is about their workmanship, their story telling, how they are taking care of their employees and of course, safety measures during the pandemic. All of this is being done through the language of social media, and much of it is being highly appreciated by the ever-curious luxury consumer who wants to be connected with their favourite brands every step of the way.

Brands which can successfully adapt do this change, are the ones that will emerge stronger post the lockdown, and suffer a much lesser impact than others. 

 

The author of this article is Ms Smita Jain – Director, MGLUXM, S P Jain School of Global Management.

 

 

 

With pandemic affecting everything around the world, and various governments forcing several restrictions on how to conduct oneself or a business, irreparable financial losses are being faced by businesses. Sports industry is not different. The global value of the sports industry is estimated at US$756 billion annually and COVID-19 has impacted this projection in more ways that one. To safeguard the health of athletes and others involved, most major sporting events at international, regional and national levels have been cancelled or postponed – from marathons to football tournaments, athletics championships to basketball games, handball to ice hockey, rugby, cricket, sailing, skiing, weightlifting to wrestling and more. The Olympics and Paralympics, for the first time in the history of the modern games, have been postponed, and will be held in 2021.

The Sports Industry is a major contributor to social and economic development. Its importance to facilitate coaching for aspiring sportspersons seeking guidance through training and coaching,  to nurture budding talent for all their recognition/laurels/achievements is recognised by people and the governments. Community Sports, for instance, present ample opportunities for the general public to have interaction and participation in events with established sportspersons. The training by trained coaches/trainers helps amateurs sharpen their skills and professionals could move on a well guided direction to enhance their ranking.

However, because of COVID-19 all the training and activities at the community sport centres has hit a break. Suddenly, the need to follow law of the land has risen for getting things back in action and re-think community sports in the new normal world around us. In view of the above, number of associated stakeholders, big or small, are facing newer challenges to ensure their ROI considering their legal positions on contracts/agreements (be it land owners or event organizers as none had perceived such situation and the absence of fall-out/termination and force majeure clauses), permissions considering health and safety guidelines, controlling expenditure on existing manpower, training and development, marketing/publicity expensing, cash-flows etc. Therefore, there are much strains and many obstacles on a promoter’s lap that need to be countered to mitigate risks in future.

Like many other natural calamities and pandemics the world has seen in past, cautious measures are required for starting, stabilising and growth in this industry. The focus, henceforth, may largely be on contracts/agreements, all-round training and development of employees, health and safety concerns for all, appropriate insurance to mitigate perceived losses (man, material etc), dos and don’ts in the complexes, detailed standard operating procedures, obligations and responsibilities of all/associated stake holders.

In India and with missing sponsors and media, the private operator’s day revenue is clocked by utilising available facilities on “Pay & Play”, “Training & Coaching” and “Corporate Days/Events” (involving various sports in an arena where multiple sports activities can be conducted). The more organised operators do have live streaming of events on Facebook/Instagram in addition to making photographers and videographers available during the event to derive a marginal added advantage on their price-tags and by seeking a minimum guarantee on attendees. The sponsored events by corporates are few though. 

The industry itself may be in new territory with newer paths to follow but with right strategies. With regulatory authorities/Governments freezing activities of contactable sports and permitting few non-contactable sports like Badminton, Table Tennis, Tennis only for single participation and Golf following safety protocols/physical distancing as of today, one may hope to see opening of team sports and contactable sports soon to save the industry from bigger losses. 

Sport is a major contributor spelling objectives and consequent advantages. Covid19 pandemic in the world has necessitated physical distancing and other safety protocol measures. The outcome is a disruption in routine life-style and that includes sports and physical activities. Many individuals are not able to actively participate in their regular individual or group sporting or physical activities outside of their homes. Under such conditions, many tend to be less physically active, have longer screen time, irregular sleep patterns as well as worse diets, resulting in weight gain and loss of physical fitness. The idea of sports is to go out in open and play for being physically and mentally active. This cannot be achieved in a closed door atmosphere and/or by use of electronic devices. It is important to maintain physical fitness, maintain endurance to be alert and swift. It is agreed that the concept of adapting to an online training session is prevalent these days but is useless for any aspiring youngster and a professional. This may be good for stretching, meditation, yoga and dance classes. 

The transformation, therefore, becomes important aspect in these defied conditions. Following recommendations seek support on safe re-opening of sporting events and conduct tournaments in order to maximize benefits that sport and physical activity can bring in the age of COVID-19 and beyond.

➢ Governments should work with well-regulated Sports Complexes under controls of Sports Authority of India, National Sports Academies and Private Operators.

➢ These may collaborate with health and care services.

➢ All centers must have appropriate and competent staffing for better results.

➢ All schools and civil society organizations representing various social groups should support physical activity at large under the protocols and progress recorded.

➢ The Governments (Center and/or State) should also provide stimulus package and overdraft facilities with long repayment period like being done for Center and State-regulated Sports Complexes/Stadia.

At the end, India needs to progress all-around at this stage. There should be financial build-ups and physical abilities improved in all segments for better outputs. All operators following SOPs/protocols may be recognized, ranking given, allocation of schedules with the expectation of results may be assigned to be progressive. These can be controlled by periodical checks/visits/progress. This is the only way forward to keep the Sports Industry healthy and competitive.

The article has been authored by Karan Bhalla, Director, Sports Maidan 

 

Sustainable fashion is a well-structured philosophy and manoeuvre that promotes environmental and social responsibility, working hand-in-hand with fashionable and awe-worthy designs. It is a well-known fact that the fashion industry deals with a complex supply chain which includes production starting from yarn, which is then woven into fabric and then cut, and it is ultimately followed by being sewn into clothing. This process is indispensable its productivity extends across the globe.

Essentially, ‘Sustainability’ in the field of Fashion entails an array of diverse divisions and sub-divisions inclusive of social as well as ecological integrity. This article speaks about the climatic take on sustainability, bearing in mind that the fashion industry is a massive contributor to land, air and water pollution. ‘Fast fashion’ as a concept brings in mass production of clothing, where the designs go straight from the ramps to the showcases in designer stores. The ‘wear to discard’ approach is becoming increasingly popular due to a new trend coming into the fashion space every second.

Today, however, consumers are practicing mindful purchasing with a majority of them seeking awareness to meet demands. They partake in the race of apparel companies and industries who are transforming and practicing business models for the smooth flow of manufacturing processes and standard levels.

If we talk about global luxury brands like Gucci, they have already contributed effectively to reducing the environmental impact of their production processes. Their latest report showcased a 21 percent reduction in hampering the environment through new processes that have been adopted by the company on a global scale.

The luxury brand is forward-thinking in its strategy of generating a constructive and pragmatic change for our planet and its people. Gucci has formulated a game plan which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, which seems to be a commendable approach towards sustainability.

A generalized platform is needed to help fashion answer the call to increase sustainability and productivity simultaneously as currently, the fashion industry is responsible for 20 percent of wastewater and 2-8 percent of greenhouse gas emissions globally, with the possibly ascending by as much as 50 percent by 2030.

Coming back to the climatic take on Sustainable fashion, today, designers are focussing more on an 'eco-friendly change' approach that essentially reduces the number of microfibres that are later released into the environment. By using sustainable processes and practices which lead to a decreased strain on planet earth would help to inform others how we can carry fashion with sustainability.

Let's talk about some global fashion designers who are following the legacy of sustainable fashion and its approach. Now when you think of ethical luxury fashion, Stella McCartney is the name that individuals are becoming increasingly familiar with.

Materials used in her fashion house include ethically sourced wool, organic cotton, and recycled textiles, excluding fur and leather.

Another name is Katie Jones, who is a UK based knitwear fashion designer. Her brand practices sustainability as well as encourages social and environmental change. Her designs are playful aesthetics which are based on the "Waste Not" approach. Her production house turns the apparel and materials into colored textures that are fun while being wearable in all kinds of settings.

Like these international brands, homegrown brands like Label Varsha partaking in Indian ethnic wear, promote ethnicity and sustainability, using some of the most breathable cotton fabrics.

Now, if a designer wants to bring the change and add their name to the list of sustainable fashion designers here are some points that will help them achieve their goals.

• Love and respect for nature- Always look for the strategies, production processes, and transformation that protects and serves sustainable materials as much as possible. These can be traceable and sourced from renewable sources, which are present in abundance.
• Respect and love people- Whether it's consumers or farmers who help to grow crops and buy products, all are playing a significant role in the supply chain, one must ensure that they get positive impact and resources you are providing to them.
• Respect and love for animals- In today's modern era, not all brands are vegetarian. Some processes involve animal lives, try avoiding those, and adopt cruelty- free methods for your production.
• Sustainable solutions- Ensure that the brand follows circular solutions and principles which involve methods of regeneration along with restorative production processes.

Last but not the least, environmental safety is our responsibility as individuals and the movement to promote sustainable fashion can also start on a personal level. We must think about how one can contribute to the scene set in front of them and bring about a revolution.

When these basic ideologies are set in place and motion, processes and operations work exceedingly smoothly. Brands hold on to the weightage of the profits they are making and turn a blind eye to the irreparable impacts those profits are making on our ecosystem. Once the foundations are set in place with these ideologies, sustainability can come into vision.

 

The outbreak of Covid-19 had a great impact on every sphere of life. The Coronavirus is indeed a health concern that is and will continue to impact buying patterns and business execution in the coming weeks and months. Since Covid-19 has been hitting the country with its global impacts, it’s for sure the most difficult and the trickiest time for the retail sector as the footfall at stores has dropped in leaps and bounds because people are staying indoors. They are advised about avoiding public places and encouraging social distancing. The government is also coming up with orders of nationwide lockdown. Retailers are also shutting their stores to prevent further outbreaks. Therefore, e-commerce has become the solution to the problems of so many out there and is seeing an upsurge in traffic. People from affected areas have been talking about the changes in the lifestyle, the opinions and reactions brought about by the Covid-19. It has resulted in many traditional offline stores to launch their collection online-to-offline.

 The footfall at the physical retail stores is unendingly decreasing due to Covid-19, following the instructions and guidelines from the government, the stores are operating under lockdown and therefore customers are heading towards online purchase more. So certainly, this is an interesting time for e-commerce to boom. Other countries such as Vietnam and Russia have also seen their populations turning to e-commerce more often to shop – with an increase of use measured at 57%, and 27% respectively. Walmart saw a 160% growth because of its’ standalone grocery app called ‘Walmart Grocery’. This could be good news for Internet usage is up 50% in some parts of the world as more aspects of our daily lives have moved online. Post lockdown also, traditional store customers will postpone purchases and the impact of COVID-19 will continue to boost the e-commerce sector as consumers will prefer to shop online. 

 Because of this pandemic, one needs for short term measures to understand consumer behavior pattern and to ensure business continuity. Liberty is the homegrown brand of the country, being one of the oldest and responsible brands, the brand itself says – “we care about people”, we have been very present at our all digital mediums, interacting with people on their well being, sharing powerful positive information, contributing to mankind’s help during the crisis, throughout the crisis.These attributes add up a lot of stabilizing/reforming the emotional connection between the people and the brand. We have been very natural and responsive as a brand towards society.

 So, in this crucial phase, Liberty Shoes is doing what we always skipped with an excuse on “lack of time”, we are improving the UI/UX of our websites to give our browser the best experience, improving on SEOs as the current and coming time will incline more towards the digital dependency, we are setting our foot more firm in the digital domain. 

Social media/influencer marketing tools are the mediums we are strengthening more. OOH medium is certainly not at all where we can look at, Cinema ads are again in questions of its survival. Print media used to be one of the most reliable media for us to reach out to the masses, but the challenges are different now and they need to be addressed differently.

 Personalized communication with consumers are also taking place, using the CRM database, we are reaching out to our consumers, to know their wellbeing, this will also add up to the main communication strategy at the moment.
 

Stopping this pandemic may require few steps like repeated shutdowns of the retail outlets which would save lives but would also hit the social well being in terms of lost jobs and livelihoods. Therefore, it’s high time for retailers to adopt adaptive business practices at this crucial stage. So the organization is buckling-up accordingly. We are keeping low on the marketing budget for obvious reasons. We are keeping a tight check on the market, keeping all our marketing tools ready for the year, but to launch any sort of significant marketing activity, we are adapting to wait and watch for the next quarter at least. Meanwhile with the introduction and focus on #AtmaNirbharBharat the future holds a great opportunity for the various Indian artisans and the Indian factories to grow in leaps and bounds. As of now, planning strategies doesn’t make any sense as the situation unfolds over the next few weeks, with some relaxations in the lockdown we hope that the situation finds a balance for running the operations efficiently and productively.

 

 

The pandemic has had a deep impact on fashion and the art of dressing up. As much of the world shelters at home to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, pyjamas are undoubtedly becoming the new fashion trendsetter of the time, masks have become prominent to most wardrobes, and gloves seem next on the list. 

The coronavirus has brought the world to a standstill as we've only seen in apocalyptic movies before, but it is impossible to disregard the profound effects it is having on industries such as fashion either. Though there has been an undeniable fall in purchasing power and a change in buying habits, perhaps the most visible change the pandemic has triggered in fashion has been in the form of trends and new movements.

It is all about “home fashion"

Now that we are almost solely spending time at home and have embraced the home office life, it is comforting to say sitting at your desk in a restricting suit, or belly-cutting jeans has been forsaken for all things comfy. Clearly cognizant of this preference, fashion and retail brands have been launching collection, all endowed to our new way of life. Also, owing to the rise of videoconferencing and Zoom calls, we have seen a mullet-like approach in our regular outfits. Rather than “business in the front, party in the back,” we are witnessing the business on the top and casuals on the bottom. Such a new trend has been coined “top dressing” where you wear something smart and formal from the waist-up while anything goes underneath.

Masks, the new 'it' accessory

Nowadays, there is something without which nobody can leave their homes, it isn’t the wallet or the key. We all have a new priority-the Mask. Not only it is necessary for preventing the further spread of the virus, but they also cover half of our faces, so people would probably prefer something more aesthetic. The masks were already prevalent in Japan and Korea; however, recently, it has unavoidably and swiftly gained acceptance in the rest of the world. These days, the pictures of daily life, either on the front pages of the newspapers or on social media, demonstrate people trying to hide and protect themselves from their microscopic organism enemy. Immediately after the urge for the masks arose, fashion rushed to meet the need, as fashion always does. There appeared masks with various patterns and forms, for the ones who want to protect themselves but also to make it fashion.

 Back to Ecommerce

In a country where ecommerce penetration is still quite less, implementing omnichannel for fashion retailers was a mountain to climb. Ecommerce relies a lot on data, and while a true omnichannel setup would have taken considerably longer time to show benefits, the Covid-19 might have just reduced the timelines considerably.

Significant shifts in consumers’ preferences

Social distancing has underlined the importance of digital channels more than ever, and the lockdown has lifted digital as an urgent priority across the entire value chain. With shops closed around the world, consumers are moving to online. There is a common perception among masses that offline retail can become breeding grounds for transmission of the virus. According to several reports, the virus can survive on most materials for a few hours to a few days. Hence any online package reaching you at ambient temperatures is less likely to have the virus which makes ecommerce safer. Therefore, a strong online presence is a key to brands' survival now and their success in the future. Apart from that, the pandemic is also adding values around sustainability into sharp focus, emphasising discussions around materialism, over-consumption, and immoral business practices. An extensive drop in consumer spending on apparel will result in massive inventory build-ups.

Increase in conversion rate 

Due to the permission grant for ecommerce of non-essential items in Lockdown 4.0, fashion ecommerce spiked up almost immediately. If we do not look at marketplaces and focus on brand ecommerce, the pre-COVID conversion rate on an average would have been 1.5 to 2%. Now, the conversion rates have shot up to 3% on an average, which means for the same marketing spends; brands are getting larger revenue and conversions.

If these numbers are to be looked at, we do foresee a surge in ecommerce for fashion retail in the next few months. A very pertinent problem with ecommerce is the availability of options for shoppers and hence the need for offers and discounts. While many brands earlier proclaimed not going down the route as a reason for not venturing into ecommerce, almost everybody is now aligned to the fact that the discount is well compensated by scale, reduced operational costs and reduced manpower costs involved with ecommerce. Ecommerce has for long been considered to be another outlet by most fashion brands, but now ecommerce is being moved to an equal business vertical.

Conclusion

An excellent indicator of the fact that for fashion retailers, omnichannel or a greater focus on ecommerce might be the way forward, is that even during the lockdown, there were multiple instances when ecommerce for non-essential items were considered ahead of opening up for shops. It is true that e commerce poses its own set of challenges but with the right approach, proper implementation of the business logic and smart logistics, ecommerce might provide the right fuel for most brands to survive and flourish. Also, if we look according to the re-shaping of fashionwear, then the Great Depression and World War II transformed people's wardrobes; COVID-19 unavoidably will become a new trendsetter, but it is up to designers to lead this change.

 

 

The Coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic has seen a lot of changes in the ways several industries function. It has either brought new changes, or accelerated processes that were in the works already.

The Fashion Industry has been criticized time and again for its unsustainable ways, it’s hard-headed labour consumptions, and the pollution it causes. It is said to produce 10% of humanity’s carbon emissions along with being the second-largest consumer of our world’s water supply, according to the World Economic Forum. Owing to ‘Fast Fashion’ being all the rage, the production of clothes has almost doubled since the year 2000.

Fast Fashion is rightly termed as being an antithesis to sustainability and implying that the two may go hand in hand could be considered as equivalent to putting lipstick on a pig. These superficial changes are deemed as an attempt to disguise the undesirable nature of Fast Fashion, and the ramifications of it being a go-to for consumers all around the world.

This widening or magnified version of the Fast Fashion industry works on boundless growth, and anything in excess cannot be advantageous for the sate the world is in as of date. Keeping all this in mind, consumers have begun rethinking their consumption patterns while confined to the four walls of their homes, realizing how much, or rather little, we need for survival. When a limited set of resources is available at hand for individuals who are usually used to being able to satisfy all their demands and meet all their wants, the ‘new normal’ is quite the alteration.

Instead of popularizing ‘Work From Home Styling’ and ‘Tips and Tricks for the best Quarantine Look’, numerous fashion brands are shining a light on more serious issues like sustainability being a need of the hour, not only keeping in mind the losses faced due to the pandemic crisis, but also the fact that Climate Change is still a very real and apparent issue we are facing. Fashion is an extremely powerful component of our daily lives, empowering individuals every day to showcase emotions and dialogues through colors and patterns alike.

Sustainable fashion is using materials and other avenues in a manner where ‘ecological integrity’ comes into the frame, rethinking the system we work in today and call for an alternative shift to ‘slow fashion’. Slow Fashion is a movement based on the principle of sustainability, where homegrown fashion houses focus more on emotional, ethical, and ecological qualities and prefer them over uniformity and blandness. Slow Fashion respects the cultural diversity, the limited and unlimited resources at our disposal, and the ecological framework of the world we live in.

Glaring realities of greed, overconsumption, superficiality, and a ‘wear to discard’ approach have become apparent and allowed consumers and brands to reflect on the true meaning and power of fashion, and what people can do to help make the future, post-COVID-19, better.

Brands have now begun a more inclusive and compassionate approach, where they address issues as such, while homegrown labels and retail stores have taken to digital platforms for their brand’s survival post lockdown. The work of artists is being showcased and appreciated, and the world seems to shift its focus from capitalist greed to appreciation.

A reshaped narrative where ‘how’ replaces ‘how many’, is what can be expected post lockdown, where the ‘new normal’ becomes a thing of the past and where we look forward to relating the clothes we wear with the historic and cultural aspect that is their essence.

The article has been penned down by Yashraj Bhaiya, Director, Label Varsha

 

 

 

India is one of the largest biscuit manufacturing countries after the US and China. While the country is one of the largest biscuit consuming nation, per capita consumption is still very low at 2.1kg – compared to Ireland, which is the highest at 21.76kg. The market for biscuits and cookies in India has come a long way accounting for about 72 per cent of the sales in the bakery industry. Increasing consumption of packaged and convenience foods, the availability of a variety of biscuits and an increase in disposable incomes have provided a major boost to the industry.

According to Market Outlook report, India's biscuit market stood at $3.9 billion in 2016, and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.27 per cent, in value terms, between 2017 and 2022, to reach $7.25 billion by 2022.The demand will be driven by factors like taste and preference, demand of convenience food, concern for health and wellness as well as shift towards premium biscuits such as sugar free, oats, wheat and multi-grain biscuits among others. 

Indian biscuit market: History and current scenario

In past, biscuits in India were made by using ordinary flour, sugar and saturated oil and underwent industrial procedures of molding, baking and cooling. However, with an increase in the disposable income as well as changing tastes and preference of people forced the biscuit manufacturing units to come up with a new range of biscuits. This challenge was met well with the innovation of salted biscuits which reduced the amount of sugar put in the batter by adding more salt. Other changes made in the production of biscuits were thinner crusts and addition of digestive ingredients to make them more nutritious.

Currently the biscuit industry is made up of the organized and unorganized sector with renowned brands dominating the market share in the organized sector. On the other hand, the unorganized sector consists of small bakery units, cottage and household type manufacturing and packaging units that help them distribute their goods in the surrounding areas. Self-managed and focused product lines plus less expenditure on marketing are the factors that contribute to the growth of the unorganized sector. 

Embracing innovation to overcome challenges

Demand for healthy biscuits is increasing due to the active lifestyle of consumers who are looking for convenient eating options. Currently, India has 64 percent of its population in the working age group which makes millennials the driving force behind modern consumer trends. Millennials carefully read nutritional values on packages as well as grab snacks at least two times a day.

This is why the biscuit industry must pay close attention to the recent trends and opportunities which can help it produce exactly what is in demand. Biscuits are broadly categorized in the following segments like Glucose, Marie, Cream, Crackers and Milk but most consumers have already tasted these which is why companies are increasingly innovating with new flavors and ingredients to fuel the interest of consumers. 

As per past developments, biscuits have transitioned from light to high fiber to multi/whole grain and oats ashealth conscious consumers want biscuits with high nutritional value. This has made manufacturers use more fibrous and nutritious ingredients like oats along with reducing the amount of artificial colors and preservatives and avoiding high fructose syrup completely.  

Another variant for health-conscious consumers are the low sugar or sugar-free biscuits that help with weight management, cholesterol management and more. Such low sugar, and even sugar-free biscuit options, however, do not compromise with taste as they contain healthy replacements such as honey, coconut, fruits, dark chocolate, etc. 

Furthermore, brands are going one step ahead by experimenting with delicious yet nourishing exotic fruits and nuts. Hazelnuts, figs, pears, bananas and many such ingredients have been emerging in popular biscuits across the country, elevating the biscuit eating experience for consumers. Since fruits and nuts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, these biscuits are perfect for new-age consumers who want health with taste. 

The article has been authored by Amrinder Singh, Bonn Group of Industries

 

Over the years, with more and more consumers increasing purchasing power and accepting their zest to shop luxury items, the entire industry has witnessed a mammoth change. Aspirational buyers have turned into regular consumers thus ensuring an increase in the consumer base for globally. However, with the current situation and lockdown being witnessed PAN India and globally, few sectors of the luxury segment that were yet to venture into the e-commerce segment, have seen their peers see an increase in sales. This has been true in the initial COVID 19 announcement day as during times of distress people do resort to shopping as a therapy and as a way of staying positive.

However, with PAN India lockdown even though e-commerce segment have witnessed an upsurge in their sales the luxury market is witnessing a little set back as consumers are prioritising necessary goods as per government guidelines. Globally some of the companies are going ahead and even creating jobs for their countrymen, to work as delivery guys in the time of COVID-19.

It is true that apart from the essential/ necessary goods platform, the e-commerce for other goods/ luxury products are currently facing a situation that is not so favourable due to lockdown that is being witnessed PAN India. However, once this is over, and when situation normalises, e-commerce will still play an important role in reaching out to consumers who would be sceptical in immediately physically visiting malls and showrooms/ markets. The percentage of such sceptical consumers will be quite large as the consumers of today’s age are very well versed and are well equipped with the norms of safety and precaution. The e-commerce segment of luxury goods will also find that they have developed consumer bases who are finally embracing the concept of luxury shopping even during normal times. It is very similar to tasting the sweet nectar of enjoying authentic luxury goods in order to understand how even shopping online for luxury goods can be fulfilling.

This realisation itself will drive a lot of companies to finally take the leap of faith and venture into the e-commerce industry post the COVID -19 months. Many of the companies thought that physical stores/ showrooms are the only future for business sustenance and the global boom of e-commerce platform will not last much longer. However, with the outbreak of COVID – 19 and the relentless support of the e-commerce sector, both companies/businesses and consumers have understood that e-commerce sector will flourish manifold along with physical stores and showrooms.

Apart from this, even the players in the auto industry will also understand the importance of digitalisation. The luxury auto market will also witness a major shift in the consumer attitude wherein they will be more open to the concept of purchasing luxury vehicles online. However, currently the entire luxury industry as a whole is witnessing a standstill due to the state and nationwide lockdown.

This has led the companies to understanding the importance of virtual consumer experiential marketing. Thus, with virtual consumer experiential marketing becoming an important aspect for companies, e-commerce linked with Social Media cites like Instagram will also help in tapping into consumers who are way more active in SM handles than on any other platforms.

Influx of social media marketing has led to a digital revolution where almost every industry is fighting to gain attention from its targeted audience. From apparel to electronics, from telecom to travel, and from food & beverages to entertainment, every industry is finding out ways to tap this niche market which is not only huge but also effectively priced. So, its obvious for the automobile industry to enter the world of social media to be able to connect with the digitally awakened generation.

Before the advent of social media, vehicle dealers have depended on costly and ostentatious TV advertisements to help in gaining popularity for their brands.  However, now with digitalisation, social media is basic in the effective advertising in the automobile industry. What’s more, it additionally deciphers that better the vehicle brand does its social media advertising, the higher its odds are of beating the competition. Any car dealer or manufacturer who isn’t using this platform into their business is doing noteworthy harm to their business’ targets.

With advanced showcasing strategies readily available, car dealers and manufacturers will have better chances to win their prospects’ attention. However, while talking about the auto industry it is important to understand that vehicles are high-contribution and high-speculation items, so one must give various touch points to their customers. Thus looking at all sectors, it would be rightly said that post COVID -19, the industry as a whole will witness an increase in sales of luxury goods via the ecommerce segment as well, thus making both luxury and digital platforms to function as feel good items and authentic platform of purchase respectively.

The article has been authored by Jatin Ahuja, Founder and MD, Big Boy Toyz

 

How many of us have attempted to buy shoes from an e-commerce platform and been sorely disappointed because the size doesn't fit, or the shape doesn't complement our feet or the heels are not up to the mark? Of course, it might take you a few attempts of shopping from different brands to figure out what fits you and suits you best. However, when it comes to footwear, these are some of the reasons why offline stores are still the king when it comes to retailing shoes.

Footwear customers in India who have essentially focussed on value and durability for generations are now evolving to buying shoes that look stylish, expensive and are still comfortable. As a result, they want more from their retailers in terms of style options, modern in-store experiences and a variety of fast-fashion brands to choose from. Various studies have shown that customers are wary buying shoes online without trying them on and getting a feel of the product.

Some of the leading retailers are focused on developing their in-store shopping experiences and offering value-added services while competing with online retailers. These include services such as 3D foot-scan for customized in-soles, Foot Spatorelieve for aching muscles and Shoe Spato that keep footwear as good as new. When customers walk into a store, they are giving in to the experience of being pampered and assisted in their choices. A patient salesman who doesn't mind spending time helping you make the right decision in terms of look, comfort and fit cannot be replicated in the digital world.

On the back of this demand, many of the major footwear brands are opening flagship stores to target more customers in larger cities and smaller towns.

Here are some retail trends that drive customers to offline footwear stores:

Brand Experience – Customers do have their favourite brands when it comes to footwear as their products and in-store experiences tick off their checklists. Brands, on the other hand are characterised by how they make the customer feel as soon as they step into their store. This partnership between customers and brands is like any other partnership — brands need to be up to date on customers’ expectations and customers need to be satisfied with their product choices. The onus of driving this offline demand rests on how brands make their customers feel in their stores. While most retailers understand the delicacy of this partnership, some still grapple with strategies that will help them meet the ever-changing demands of the customers.

Adding Value - Customer retention for offline footwear stores hinges on strong customer relationships, which in turn helps amp up their sales. Customers trust these brands with their money and time because they add value and advice that no online channel can replicate. A repeat customer is far more valuable than a new customer. Only those customers that have formed a comfort zone with a brand and its stores repeatedly visit their favourite stores.

Everything In One Place - When customers walk into a store, they have the entire display of products on offer and can easily make a choice by comparing their favourites. Also, regularly changing in-store display shelves and windows brings in repeat customers who look forward to and track new arrivals coming in. A brand that keeps its marketing strategy fresh in its stores will likely not lose customers to the e-commerce platform. 

The article has been authored  by Mayank Lakhani, Director, Lakhani Infinity Footcare

 

 

 

 

When the COVID-19 is spreading like wildfire, governments have no other better options than lock-down to counter the pandemic. The global economy is struggling between the devil and the deep blue sea, and small businesses are the worst hit. Retail, especially the physical retail is one of the worst hit sectors as the lock-down will be continued till mid of April. Though convenience and departmental stores are exempted from the lock-down, their footfall falls to a great extent. But, apparel, jewellery, mobiles & electronics, sports goods, and many other retail segments are completely closed in the wake of the ongoing health emergency.                  

Covid Impact

The economy was already in the slowdown phase for the last couple of quarters, and it had experienced the slowest growth in the last six year, when it grew only at 4.7 per cent. In such a challenging scenario, things become further aggravated when coronavirus spreads the tentacles in Indian markets. With every passing day, the crisis is mounting like never before and its impact can be seen everywhere. According to the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), besides the direct impact on demand and supply of goods and services, decreasing cash flow is another big problem for the businesses. On the one hand, retailers are missing items in the inventory, on the other hand, amidst reduced cash flow, managing salaries of the employees and clearing payments of small vendors and artisans, further increasing their worries.  

As all the manufacturing activities in the retail sector have come to a standstill under the lockdown state, things will take at least 30 to 45 days to get normal after the current shutdown. But, if the lock-down is extended for another two to three weeks, the after-effects will be very critical for the small players in the retail sector. So far, the seriousness with which government, healthcare sector, and police administration are working to combat COVID-19 pandemic, most of the industry experts expect that the situation will improve within a fortnight, but citizens too must have to follow the guidelines issued by the health ministry to countervail this disease as soon as possible. 

Reforms to mitigate the loss

Recently the Ministry of Finance and Reserve Bank of India have also taken some crucial decisions to mitigate the ill effects of the current pandemic on the Indian Economy. Rs 1.7 lakh crore spending plan is announced by the government to improve the health of the economy curb the impact, RBI also comes forward as a frontier to support the country’s economy with a host of measures. The reverse repo rate was cut by 90 bps to 4 per cent and a moratorium of three months of EMIs on all outstanding loans is also announced by the Governor of RBI. But, these are short-term measures; there is also a need to make some adequate structural changes in the economy.

In many product categories, India’s retail sector depends on imports from China and European countries. Under the Make in India programme, there is an urgent need to focus on strengthening the manufacturing sector of the country, and there should be minimum dependence on foreign manufacturing. There is a close connection between retail and the manufacturing sector, and to protect the former, the latter should be equipped with advanced infrastructure and friendly policies.

The article has been authored by Puneet Jain and Yatin Jain, Directors, ODHNI