Navigating Retail Change: Key Strategic Insights from the RAI Kerala Retail Summit 2024

Kochi – Kerala, October 10, 2024: The Kerala Retail Summit 2024, successfully hosted by the Retailers Association of India (RAI) in collaboration with the Malabar Chamber of Commerce on October 9th, 2024, at the Crowne Plaza Kochi, brought together an esteemed gathering of thought leaders, industry experts, and retail stalwarts. This prestigious event served as a vital platform for stakeholders across various retail categories, promoting learning, networking, and meaningful dialogue centered on the region’s dynamic retail landscape.

With a packed agenda, the summit featured discussions on a wide range of topics, including innovative branding strategies, the impact of social media and visual commerce, and emerging technology trends. Expert panel discussions, moderated by industry mavens, along with keynotes from esteemed personalities, the summit aimed to equip participants with valuable insights and transformative strategies essential for driving sustainable growth in the retail sector in the years to come.

Speaking about the Kerala Retail Summit 2024, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, “Kerala holds great potential for retail, with its population being highly receptive to modern retail formats and innovations. The state’s literate and forward-thinking consumers offer a strong foundation for growth. By focusing on branding strategies, retail innovation, and technology, retailers can seize these opportunities to enhance customer experiences and further build the retail ecosystem in Kerala.”

Deepak Aswani, Chairman of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), Kochi Chapter, and MD Aswani Lachmandas Group, said, “Kerala’s retail landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by a unique blend of traditional values and modern consumer expectations. Retailers who understand and adapt to this shift are well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic environment. It’s an exciting time to be part of Kerala’s retail journey as we embrace innovation and growth.”

Mathew Joseph, Chief Operating Officer, FreshToHome, said, “Retail today is shaped by consumers who prioritise both quality and transparency. As the market evolves, businesses that stay focused on delivering trust and value will succeed. It’s about aligning innovation with customer expectations and continuously adapting to the changing landscape.”

Nityanand Kamath, President, Malabar Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director, Ace Group of Companies, said, “Kerala’s retail sector is at a pivotal point where tradition meets modernity, offering unique growth opportunities. Businesses that recognise the value of blending local strengths with global trends will be best positioned to succeed. We should focus on fostering innovation while staying true to the roots that make Kerala’s retail landscape so distinctive.”

The Kerala Retail Summit 2024 hosted in-depth panel discussions on a range of topics, including Hyperlocal Retail, The Dynamics Between Small and Big Retailers, Technological Trends, Visual Commerce, Branding Strategies, and Digital Payments. Deliberating at the summit were some prominent faces of the retail industry in the region.