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Kirana Stores Seek Government Support to Compete with Quick Commerce Giants

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Kirana Stores Seek Government Support to Compete with Quick Commerce Giants

The Federation of Retailer Association of India (FRAI) has called on the government to provide enhanced technological support to local kirana stores, allowing them to better compete with the growing presence of quick commerce giants like Swiggy Instamart, Blinkit, and Zepto. 

Representing approximately 80 lakh micro, small, and medium retailers, FRAI argues that empowering kirana stores with robust digital tools will level the playing field and help them maintain their relevance in the rapidly evolving market.

FRAI Spokesperson Makes Important Points 

According to FRAI Honorary Spokesperson Abhay Raj Mishra, the government’s initiatives, such as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), are a step in the right direction, but a more targeted approach is necessary to address the unique needs of kirana stores. “Kirana stores should be equipped with technology that makes them as visible and accessible to customers as the quick commerce companies,” Mishra explained. He emphasized that for these stores to remain competitive, they must be able to tap into the expanding digital marketplace, meeting the demands of modern consumers.

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Kirana stores are facing increasing pressure as quick commerce companies, backed by massive investments and logistical advantages, offer deep discounts and faster delivery. FRAI pointed out that these companies have a distinct edge, with large warehouses, vast customer bases, and substantial financial resources that kirana stores simply can’t match.

Trouble for Kirana Stores

This imbalance has led to stagnating sales for traditional kirana stores, especially during peak demand periods like festivals, noted Lok Sabha member Praveen Khandelwal. He added that for small shopkeepers to thrive in this new era, it’s essential they adapt and leverage all available channels to stay in tune with changing consumer expectations. 

Continue Exploring: Speed and Safety Can Coexist: Karan Tanna’s Take on Quick Food Delivery

Without this shift, the competition from quick commerce players will continue to intensify, putting local businesses at a significant disadvantage.

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Bharat Sethi’s Bold Predictions for E-Commerce in the Next 5 Years

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Bharat Sethi’s Bold Predictions for E-Commerce in the Next 5 Years

Bharat Sethi, co-founder of Rage Coffee, recently shared his insightful predictions for the future of e-commerce. With a rapidly changing digital landscape, Sethi believes the next five years will witness significant shifts, especially in how brands engage with customers.

According to Sethi, one of the most notable trends will be the rise of creator and founder-led brands. “The largest brands will be creator/founder led, vocally selling to the customers 1:1,” he noted. This direct connection between the brand and its customers will redefine how e-commerce operates, making the buying experience more personal.

Key Shifts and Trends in the E-commerce Space

Another key shift will be an increased focus on product differentiation and innovation. “Customers will always ask ‘why’ am I buying this brand,” he predicted, suggesting that consumers will demand more than just a product—they will seek meaning and authenticity from the brands they support.

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Sethi also sees a growing importance in agencies that entrepreneurs can outsource digital media building to. “Agencies that experienced entrepreneurs can outsource digital media building to, will be a big business,” he said, emphasizing the need for expertise in speaking the language of today’s consumers.

Sethi Makes Deeply Insightful Predictions 

Subscription and membership e-commerce are also expected to thrive in India, with Sethi forecasting that they will “finally arrive” and potentially create “the largest pool of millionaires.” The e-commerce landscape will continue to evolve, with social media playing a pivotal role in driving organic growth, and customer love becoming harder to earn.

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As Sethi summarized, the future of e-commerce will be a “fight to the bottom on pricing” for generic products, but for niche and loved brands, it will be all about building community and trust.

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Delhi Leads the Way with Rs 60 Crore Spent on Instant Noodles in 2024, According to Swiggy Instamart

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Delhi Leads the Way with Rs 60 Crore Spent on Instant Noodles in 2024, According to Swiggy Instamart

As 2024 draws to a close, Swiggy Instamart’s year-end report provides fascinating insights into the habits and preferences of consumers across India. From quirky ordering trends to regional consumption patterns, the data reveals a lot about the food and product choices that defined the year.

One of the most eye-catching statistics from the report comes from Delhi, where users spent an impressive Rs 60 crore on instant noodles alone. This massive figure highlights just how much the city loves its quick comfort food. Additionally, Delhi also topped the charts in potato chip orders, further cementing its status as a snack-loving city.

Mumbai is Not Far Behind 

Mumbai, not far behind, led in onion purchases, with Hyderabad also making its mark. On December 1, Swiggy Instamart users across India collectively ordered 4500 kilos of onions in just one hour, further underlining the country’s ongoing love affair with this kitchen staple. In a more surprising trend, Mumbai also made headlines for a massive one-day order of tonic water worth over Rs 8 lakh, reflecting a shift towards premium drink choices in the city.

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Swiggy Instamart also shared some fun insights into its top five most-ordered items this year: milk, curd, dosa batter, chips, and soft drinks. Interestingly, 1 in every 15 orders contained milk, while 1 in every 5 orders included a fruit or vegetable. The report also revealed significant spikes in specific categories during festivals, such as Raksha Bandhan, where users ordered a staggering 273 chocolates per minute.

More Insights from the Report

The year also saw an impressive 89-second delivery of nendran bananas and red amaranth, marking the fastest delivery of the year. This lightning-speed service showcased the efficiency Swiggy Instamart continues to offer, cementing its position as a go-to for instant needs.

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From snacks to celebrations, Swiggy Instamart’s data offers a fascinating snapshot of the consumption habits that shaped 2024.

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The Vegetarian Tech Founder Who Can’t Stop Raving About This Bay Area Gem

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The Vegetarian Tech Founder Who Can’t Stop Raving About This Bay Area Gem

Saket Modi, co-founder and CEO at Safe Security, recently shared a heartfelt tribute to the two siblings who are redefining Indian cuisine in the Bay Area. For someone who eats every meal out, finding a consistent source of high-quality vegetarian food can be a challenge. But for Modi, Sheetal and Roshan Shivalkar, the dynamic duo behind Puranpoli, Suramai, and Solkadhi, have made this possible, and their story is one of inspiration and grit.

Tech Founder Saket Modi Loves This Restaurant 

In a recent post, Modi highlighted the Shivalkars’ remarkable journey, emphasizing how their humble beginnings shaped their path to success. “Sheetal was working at a salon for many years in Bombay before moving to the Bay Area after getting married. She knew nothing about running restaurants, and hence started working at multiple restaurants in the Bay Area,” he shared. Similarly, Roshan began his career as a dishwasher at Falafel Bites before moving up the ranks to the front desk.

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Their dream of owning a restaurant came to fruition on March 17, 2020, with the launch of Puranpoli, on the very first day of the COVID lockdown. Despite the challenging start, the Shivalkars’ persistence led them to build a multi-million-dollar restaurant empire. “They’ve scaled from zero to millions of dollars in revenue, all while remaining bootstrapped,” Modi noted.

The Secret Behind their Phenomenal Success 

The key to their success lies in their unwavering commitment to quality. Sheetal, known for her obsession with perfection, starts her day at 5:30 AM, personally preparing fresh food. She and Roshan are typically the last to leave their restaurants around midnight. “Sheetal is obsessed with her dishes and to ensure quality, they only have a 1-page menu,” Modi wrote.

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For Modi, having a place that delivers such consistently great vegetarian food is a blessing. “Couple that with Sheetal’s love for me where she will occasionally give me the ‘prasad thali’ she dedicates to the big Ganesha when I go there in the afternoon for lunch,” he added.

The Shivalkars’ success is a testament to their relentless work ethic, passion for food, and their deep connection to their cultural roots. It’s a story every entrepreneur can learn from—proving that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.

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Manmohan Singh: The Man Who Opened India’s Doors to the World

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Manmohan Singh: The Man Who Opened India’s Doors to the World

Yesterday, India lost one of its most transformative leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, the man who quietly yet powerfully shaped the nation’s destiny. Known for his humility and intellect, Singh’s career was marked by an unwavering commitment to India’s progress. While his voice was soft, his actions echoed loudly across the country and the world.

Singh’s defining legacy was cemented in 1991, when India stood on the brink of an economic collapse. As Finance Minister in the Narasimha Rao government, Singh faced a nation in crisis, burdened by crushing debt and dwindling foreign reserves. At a moment when lesser leaders might have succumbed to panic, Singh delivered a plan of bold economic reforms that opened India’s doors to the world.

The 1991 Landmark Reforms that Changed India

The 1991 liberalization dismantled decades of protectionist policies, reducing import restrictions, lowering tariffs, and inviting foreign investment. Singh’s reforms ignited a dormant economy, unleashing private enterprise and paving the way for India’s rise as a global economic power. In his iconic budget speech, he declared, “No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come.” For Singh, that idea was a confident, outward-looking India ready to take its place on the world stage.

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The journey wasn’t without its critics. Singh faced intense opposition for abandoning socialist policies, with many fearing that the poor would be left behind. But Singh’s calm determination and focus on long-term benefits carried the day. Over the next three decades, India witnessed unprecedented growth, a booming middle class, and millions lifted out of poverty.

Manmohan Singh’s Stellar Tenure as Prime Minister of India

As Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Singh continued to lead with quiet resolve. Though his tenure was marked by challenges, his vision for India as an inclusive and prosperous democracy remained steadfast.

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News of his passing yesterday has left the nation reflecting on his extraordinary contributions. While Singh was never one to seek the limelight, his impact on India’s history cannot be overstated. He wasn’t just an economist or a politician; he was a statesman who believed in the power of ideas and the strength of perseverance.

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy is one of transformation and quiet determination. In a world often drawn to noise, he proved that true leadership lies in action, not words. His loss is deeply felt, but his vision for India will continue to inspire generations to come.

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Moonshine Meads’ Co-Founder Shares Lessons from a Tough Year

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Moonshine Meads’ Co-Founder Shares Lessons from a Tough Year

Moonshine Meads co-founder Rohan Rehani recently opened up about the challenging year the company faced after a major investor pulled out, leaving them in a cash crunch. 

To survive, the company had to scale down its team, cut retailer discounts, reduce marketing spends, and pivot to contract manufacturing to offset fixed costs. “Survival was the priority,” Rehani shared, reflecting on the difficult decisions made during this time. 

Cofounder Narrates an Inspiring Story 

He wrote: “This time last year, Nitin Vishwas and I had to take some tough calls for Moonshine Meads. A big investor backed out last minute, leaving us in a big cash crunch and left us with a question mark hovering over our heads whether the business will make it through this year.”

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Signs of Recovery and Optimism for the Future

Despite the hardships, Rehani noted that 2024 has brought significant improvement. With reduced expenses and positive developments on the horizon, Moonshine Meads is emerging stronger. 

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“Even when the world seemed to be crashing down, there were unwavering team members, supportive partners, and investors who doubled down,” Rehani said. Now, with renewed optimism, the company is looking forward to a brighter future.

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Regenta Evolife Dome City: Royal Orchid’s Luxury Pop-Up Resort for Mahakumbh 2025

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Regenta Evolife Dome City: Royal Orchid’s Luxury Pop-Up Resort for Mahakumbh 2025

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) is making waves in the hospitality industry with its latest venture, Regenta Evolife Dome City, an upscale resort complex designed to tap into the buzz surrounding the Mahakumbh 2025 Mela in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad). 

Regenta Evolife Dome City – An Upscale Resort

The resort, located just a stone’s throw from the main bathing point and event grounds of the Mahakumbh, will operate as an exclusive pop-up for three months, making it a first-of-its-kind offering in both the industry and India.

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This unique resort is set to become the go-to choice for international visitors and those seeking a luxurious stay amidst the spiritual festivities of Mahakumbh 2025. Arjun Baljee, President of Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., commented, “The year 2024 marked the start of redefining our hospitality brands, and 2025 will be the year we bring those plans to life. What better place to kick off this transformation than Mahakumbh 2025 with a large-scale Regenta Resort pop-up in collaboration with Evolife.

Mahakumbh 2025 is Expected to Break Records 

While the 2019 Kumbh Mela saw around 240 million attendees, Mahakumbh 2025 is expected to attract an even more massive crowd, with estimates ranging from 400 to 450 million people. Despite the influx of global devotees, Prayagraj has struggled to provide adequate accommodation for international tourists, with a shortage of high-end hotels hindering overnight stays. According to recent tourism ministry reports, this lack of premium lodging has been a major barrier to fully catering to the city’s growing visitor demand.

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Scheduled to open on January 15, 2025, Regenta Evolife Dome City will offer a range of accommodations, from luxurious tents to exclusive domes, designed to cater to both individual and group travelers. The domes, a blend of modern architecture and comfort, will also provide an unforgettable stargazing experience, making for a truly immersive stay under the night sky.

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Powerlook’s Offline Expansion: Five New Stores and a 50% Revenue Boost Target

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Powerlook’s Offline Expansion: Five New Stores and a 50% Revenue Boost Target

Fashion brand Powerlook has continued its aggressive expansion with the opening of five new stores across three states. 

Powerlook Pursues Aggressive Expansion 

This move is part of the company’s strategy to increase its offline retail presence to 15 locations and achieve a 50% growth in revenue, targeting Rs 150 crore by March next year.

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The newly launched stores are located in Ghatkopar, Mumbai (Maharashtra), Vadodara and Surat (Gujarat), and Bengaluru (Karnataka), covering a total retail space of 30,000 sq ft, according to Raghav Pawar, co-founder of Powerlook.

Powerlook Wants to Boost Its Offline Presence 

Already active in e-commerce, Powerlook aims to bolster its physical retail footprint, now totaling 13 stores in four states. The company is on track to reach its goal of 15 retail locations by the end of the current fiscal year.

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Pawar shared that the brand has seen a 25-30% increase in sales with each new store opening, underscoring the effectiveness of its expansion plan. With these efforts, Powerlook anticipates a 50% boost in revenue for the fiscal year.

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Speed and Safety Can Coexist: Karan Tanna’s Take on Quick Food Delivery

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Speed and Safety Can Coexist: Karan Tanna’s Take on Quick Food Delivery

Shantanu Deshpande, CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, had voiced his concerns about India’s increasing reliance on quick food delivery services, stressing the potential health and nutritional consequences.

Shantanu Deshpande’s Viral Thought Provoking Post

In a LinkedIn post that has since gone viral, Deshpande shared his disbelief after hearing from the founder of a quick commerce (qcom) food company that meals could be prepared in just two minutes and delivered in eight. “Two minutes to cook, eight minutes to deliver. I was stunned when a qcom food founder told me this,” Deshpande remarked, shedding light on his concerns. 

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Now Karan Tanna Founder of Ghost Kitchens India has penned a deeply insightful post about this phenomenon. He wrote: “Companies are flooding to take a pie of the potential 10 min food delivery market. It’s exciting! Never thought that the next disruption in food delivery would be Speed! That too over vale (discounting). It’s crazy how market behavior changes.  In the midst of this, there are a lot of conversations around the safety of food! A men’s grooming startup founder recently criticized 10-minute food delivery, calling it unhealthy and unsustainable.”

Karan Tanna Has a Different Take on the Phenomenon 

Differing from Deshpande, he remarked, “While I respect his opinion but truth is far from it. First, safety standards. Quick delivery services use Bain-Maries to keep food at over 60°C, a method trusted in buffets and weddings. Yet, innovation faces scrutiny while familiar practices don’t. Why the double standard? Second, frozen food. Often unfairly maligned, freezing is a safe preservation method, requiring no artificial preservatives. Many frozen foods are entirely additive-free and not ultra-processed, but they remain stigmatised”

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He concluded by stating: “The truth is clear: the food delivery industry is adapting to meet the pace of modern life. It’s not about resisting change—it’s about leveraging it responsibly. Customers are intelligent enough to make the right choice. Also, aggregators are responsible for making sure that customers’ experience is not compromised.”

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Swarovski’s Ambitious Vision for India: 20% Growth and the Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

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Swarovski’s Ambitious Vision for India: 20% Growth and the Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Swarovski, the renowned brand known for its jewelry, ornaments, and watches, has reported a 20% year-on-year growth in India and is optimistic about continued success as it broadens its presence with an omni-channel strategy.

Top Executive Shares his Enthusiasm 

Nasr Sleiman, the Managing Director for Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East at Swarovski, shared his enthusiasm about India’s market potential in an interview with ET Retail, stating, “India is full of opportunities. We see it as a rocket market, poised for significant growth in the coming years. It’s becoming one of the top markets for us, and we’re placing a strong focus on it, with great ambition and a variety of opportunities.”

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The brand’s performance in India has been impressive, with more than 20% growth, and Swarovski anticipates this momentum will continue or even accelerate in the future. The company is particularly excited about the expansion of its omni-channel approach, which is driving its growth. Additionally, Swarovski’s watch category has emerged as a leader in business share across its Asian markets.

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The Global Focus of the Business 

Sleiman also highlighted the company’s global focus on lab-grown diamonds, describing the category as one of the fastest-growing sectors for Swarovski. He added, “We are working hard to educate consumers about lab-grown diamonds, emphasizing their sustainability and affordability, which we believe will attract more customers.”

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