Kolkata, December 09, 2024: On December 6, 2024, at The Park in Kolkata, the Retailers Association of India (RAI) successfully organized the Kolkata Retail Summit (KRS) 2024, also referred to as the Retail Convention of Eastern India. Retailers, service providers, and business executives gathered at this year’s summit to promote cooperation, look at prospects for expansion, and talk about the retail sector’s future, with a particular emphasis on the emergence of omnichannel tactics.
When speaking about KRS 2024 and the retail landscape in Eastern India, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), stated, “The retail sector in Eastern India has seen consistent growth over the past five years and is now undergoing a significant metamorphosis.” Retailers in the region are looking for ways to blend innovation with history in order to modify traditional business strategies to suit shifting consumer preferences. Direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand growth and ONDC’s steady adoption show the region’s growing inclination for digital integration. These modifications demonstrate a retail setting that is adaptable, friendly, and prepared for sustained growth.
Priyanka Gupta, Director of Brands, GKB Opticals, said, “The retail sector is at a turning point in its history where combining digital and physical touchpoints is crucial rather than optional. Omnichannel shopping is changing how customers engage with companies by bridging the gap between convenience and experience. The secret to remaining competitive in this changing environment going ahead will be using technology to improve customer happiness and personalize services.
Vikram Bothra, MD & CEO, Chandan Retail Pvt. Ltd. (Askaran Binjraj), said, “The growth of retail in emerging markets, especially in tier-II and tier-III cities, is a testament to the untapped potential of regional economies. With improved infrastructure and growing disposable incomes, these markets are driving innovation in retail formats and customer engagement. Retailers who understand local consumer behavior and adapt quickly will be best positioned to succeed.”
Rochita Dey, Director, Sreeleathers Ltd., said, “Retail today is about finding the right balance between tradition and modernity. While customers value heritage and authenticity, they also expect innovation in product offerings and seamless shopping experiences. The future of retail lies in combining these elements thoughtfully to build trust and loyalty in an increasingly competitive market.”
KRS 2024 featured insightful panel discussions on key themes shaping the retail landscape. Experts explored strategies for ‘Future-Proofing Retail by Adapting to Evolving Consumer Behaviour and Market Dynamics’, with a focus on agility, resilience, and innovation to drive sustainable growth. A session on ‘Innovative and Practical Tech Solutions for Retail Growth’, emphasized practical tools like digital payments and loyalty programs to boost efficiency and customer satisfaction. Panelists also discussed ‘Unlocking Growth Across Diverse Consumer Segments in Retail’, highlighting the importance of tailored strategies and inclusivity.
Furthermore, self-made business owners offered their perspectives and motivational tales on “Balancing Heritage with Innovation,” illustrating how companies can foster brand loyalty by fusing heritage and contemporary styles. The summit strengthened its standing as a pillar of the retail ecosystem in Eastern India, encouraging cooperation and creativity for a prosperous future.
Poddar Group’s Ankit Poddar, i-TEK RFID’s Ashim Ashok Patil, Aminia Restaurants’ Azra Asher Ather, Arambagh Foodmart’s Biyas Roy, Legacy of Bhojraj’s Chetan Thakwani, Indian Silk House Agencies & Vcut’s Darshan Dudhoria, Gautam Jatia, Emami Frank Ross, Iffat Jahan, Metto Supermarket, and Wow! Shitanshu Jhunjhunwalla, Turtle; Tanay Agarwal, Skipper Furnishings; Vikram Bothra, Chandan Retail; Momo Foods; Priyanka Gupta, GKB Opticals; Ravindra Khandelwal, Dhanwantary Pharmacy; Rochita Dey, Sreeleathers; Sanjib Das, George Telegraph Group; and others.
The best place for retailers and retail service providers to network, work together, and look for expansion prospects is the Kolkata Retail Summit. With its exciting roster of panel discussions, fireside chats, and networking events this year, KRS gives guests the opportunity to network with customers, industry peers, and possible business partners while learning a lot about the changing retail scene.
