RAI hosts 3rd Kochi Retail Summit 2025 with Malabar Chamber of Commerce

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) hosted the third edition of the Kochi Retail Summit 2025 on October 14 at the Crowne Plaza in Kochi. Held in partnership with the Malabar Chamber of Commerce, the event served as a critical forum, gathering elite thought leaders, industry experts, and retail veterans for learning, networking, and exchanging ideas on Kerala's dynamic retail industry.

The summit featured insightful panel discussions that covered a broad range of themes, including effective branding, the influence of social media and visual commerce, advancements in retail innovation and emerging technology, and growth strategies in the e-commerce and digital space. Prominent figures from the region's retail landscape who shared their insights included leaders from Lulu Group, Bhima Jewels, Boby Chemmanur International Group, and VKC Group India.

Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, RAI, highlighted the unique nature of the state's market. He said,  Kerala’s retail landscape is built on trust and community, where shoppers value authenticity as much as price. Organized neighborhood stores and omnichannel MSMEs are shaping the next phase of growth, while malls and high streets are evolving into social spaces influenced by tourism and local culture.

Bijou Kurien, Chairman, RAI, added, retail in Kerala reflects the state's character - aware, informed, and community-driven. The state has an opportunity to create a model where modern trade and local enterprise thrive together, he emphasized.

Acting as the unified voice for Indian retailers,  RAI continues to foster the growth of the modern retail industry by engaging with all levels of government to support employment and retail investments nationwide.