RAI Kochi Retail Summit 2025 Highlights Kerala’s Retail Growth

Industry leaders discuss innovation, trust, and the evolving retail ecosystem of Kerala.

The third edition of the Kochi Retail Summit 2025, organized by the Retailers Association of India (RAI) in collaboration with the Malabar Chamber of Commerce, convened on October 14 at the Crowne Plaza Kochi. The event brought together an influential gathering of industry leaders, business strategists, and retail experts, creating a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange, strategic networking, and discussion on the evolving retail landscape of Kerala.

RAI CEO Kumar Rajagopalan emphasized that Kerala’s retail ecosystem thrives on trust, community, and authenticity. “Organised neighbourhood stores and omnichannel MSMEs are shaping the next phase of growth, while malls and high streets are evolving into social hubs influenced by tourism and culture,” he stated. “Customers here are globally aware and value consistency, quality, and fairness in every interaction.”

Bijou Kurien, Chairman of RAI, reflected on the state’s distinctive retail identity, remarking that Kerala’s retail mirrors its culture — informed, community-centric, and conscious. “As digital and physical retail converge, the state can pioneer a model where modern trade and local enterprises coexist harmoniously. Collaboration, technology, and respect for traditional values will define the next chapter,” he added.

The summit featured distinguished speakers and entrepreneurs including Dr. Sanjai George (Boby Chemmanur International Group), Gopa Kumar (Bhima Jewels), Gopika Menon (My Designation), Mehaboob MA (Secura Developers Pvt. Ltd.), Muhammed Shafi AT (Club Sulaimani), Noureen Aysha (FemiSafe), Shibu Philips (Lulu Group India), VKC Razak (VKC Group India), Ankita Kothari (Sita – The Indian Nari), Bipin Venugopal (Palooda Dessert Club), Deepak Aswani (Aswani Lachmandas Group), and Dr. Aysha Ruby (Ruby Vesture Exports & Reveil).

Deepak Aswani, Managing Director, Aswani Lachmandas Group, noted, “Kerala’s retail evolution continues to rest on trust and continuity. Family-run businesses and long-standing relationships remain core, even as digital platforms emerge. The path forward lies in blending tradition with innovation while maintaining transparency and efficiency.”

Gopa Kumar, COO of Bhima Jewels, observed, “Retail in Kerala is emotionally driven. Purchases are deeply tied to traditions and life moments. Retailers must balance heritage with innovation, combining sentiment with modern expectations of convenience.”

Shibu Philips, Director – Shopping Malls, Lulu Group India, highlighted the changing role of malls: “Kerala’s malls have transformed into cultural and social spaces where retail meets leisure. As cities expand, malls will play a greater role in fostering both economic value and community connection.”

Ankita Kothari, Co-Founder of Sita – The Indian Nari, added, “Kerala’s consumers value craftsmanship and authenticity. They embrace innovation while remaining rooted in identity. Emerging brands can thrive by celebrating this duality—design with purpose and pride.”

Noureen Aysha, Co-Founder of FemiSafe, said, “Consumers in Kerala are informed and value-conscious. They engage deeply with brands that align with their needs and beliefs, particularly in health and personal care. This awareness is driving a shift from selling products to building lasting trust through education and inclusivity.”

The summit also featured dynamic panel sessions on branding, social media and visual commerce, retail innovation, technology trends, and e-commerce growth strategies, drawing valuable insights from leaders shaping Kerala’s rapidly transforming retail landscape.