Invest Kerala Summit: Experts see bright future for Kerala’s retail sector
25 February 2025, Mumbai
Kerala’s retail sector is poised for major growth, with the state government actively reviving garment manufacturing, experts noted at the Invest Kerala Global Summit.
At the session on ‘Retail Revolution: Emerging Opportunities,’ Kalyan Silks CMD T S Pattabhiraman emphasized the importance of establishing Kerala-based global brands and noted that the garment manufacturing sector had shifted to other states. He highlighted ongoing efforts to bring the industry back to Kerala.
Shadowfax CEO Abhishek Bansal highlighted Kerala’s rise as a hub for domestic brands and strong online demand, particularly in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. Myntra SVP Venu Nair pointed to the $80 billion fashion market, where only 13 per cent is e-commerce, signaling vast potential.
Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail President Jacob John said Kerala’s retail sector is surpassing national averages, while Sangeetha Mobiles MD L Subhash Chandra credited monthly repayment systems for driving growth.
Retailers Association of India Chairman Bijou Kurien noted Kerala’s high rural purchasing power and progressive mindset as key drivers of retail expansion. Experts agreed Kerala’s retail sector is set for transformation.
