RAI Launches First Visakhapatnam Retail Summit 2025

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) successfully organized the first-ever Visakhapatnam Retail Summit (VRS) 2025 at Novotel, uniting influential voices from Andhra Pradesh’s retail sector for an engaging evening of discussions, regional insights, and strategic collaboration.

The summit delved into the shifting customer dynamics in non-metro regions and examined how retailers in Andhra Pradesh are innovating through technology, localized approaches, and favorable policies to enhance growth and profitability.

In his welcome address, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers Association of India, stated:

“Retail significantly contributes to India’s GDP and is a vital employment driver. The surge in Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets is propelling the next phase of retail development. Andhra Pradesh is nurturing retail growth with new malls, emerging destinations, and a supportive policy environment. The government’s ease-of-business measures are making retail a key force in economic and social upliftment.”

The event featured keynote addresses and panel discussions centered on topics such as “Retailing in Andhra – Profitability Beyond the Metro” and “The Smart Store Revolution.” Industry leaders from notable Andhra Pradesh retail businesses — including Neeru’s, Kankatala, BigBasket, CMR Group, Creamstone, and Vishal Peripherals — shared their insights and growth journeys.

Avnish Anand, Director at Neeru’s and Chairman of the RAI Hyderabad Chapter, commented:

“Andhra Pradesh is a retail hotspot where local preferences align with global ambitions. From traditional marketplaces to modern formats, the state’s dynamic mix showcases the evolving nature of Indian retail. Visakhapatnam, in particular, is rising as a center for retail talent and transformation.”

Mavuri Venkatramana, Chairman and Managing Director, CMR Textiles and Jewellers Pvt Ltd, observed:

“Retail in Andhra is quietly transforming. Consumers seek quality, variety, and a seamless offline-online experience. Their openness to both trusted local and international brands signals vast opportunities in cities like Visakhapatnam, where tradition and innovation coexist.”

Kankatala Mallikharjuna Rao, Managing Director of Kankatala Textiles Pvt Ltd, noted:

“Andhra’s customer behavior is changing fast. While heritage and craftsmanship remain valued, modern consumers expect digital access, curation, and premium quality. The growing demand for personalization and style-conscious choices, especially in Tier-2 cities, reflects how regional India is shaping the future of retail.”

The summit concluded with a vibrant networking session, underscoring RAI’s commitment to strengthening regional retail through knowledge sharing and community engagement.