Retailers Association of India Announces Winners of Retail Startup Awards 2026 at Retail Leadership Summit

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) announced the winners of the ‘Retail Startup Awards’ during the Retail Leadership Summit 2026. The awards marked the ninth edition of the initiative, which focuses on identifying retail startups expected to make a significant impact in 2026.

Commenting on the awards, Dr. Hitesh Bhatt, Director – Marketing and Communication, Retailers Association of India (RAI), said: “Each edition of the Retail Startup Awards reinforces the depth of entrepreneurial talent across the country. We continue to witness an impressive spectrum of startups from diverse geographies and segments, all contributing fresh thinking and transformative solutions to the retail sector. Their ability to create meaningful value for both businesses and consumers is truly commendable. We are proud to recognize and celebrate this year’s winners, who exemplify excellence, resilience, and forward-looking innovation.”

Entries were assessed based on predefined evaluation criteria, following which a shortlist of 10 startups was reviewed by a grand jury. The jury included Amit Sarda, Managing Director of Soulflower, and Rehan Huck, Vice President and Head of Leasing at DLF Malls.

The winners of the RAI Retail Startup Awards 2026 were announced as follows:
Winner: Sleepycat
1st Runner Up: Gokyo Outdoor Apparel and Lifestyles Pvt Ltd
2nd Runner Up: Club York