Neha Kant's journey from a small town to the helm of Clovia, a disruptive force in India's lingerie market, culminates in a remarkable acquisition by retail giant Reliance, valued at Rs 950 crore. Raised in Haridwar amidst an engineering-oriented family, Neha defied convention, pursuing her passion for mathematics and management, eventually founding Clovia in 2012 alongside her husband Pankaj Vermani and a tech-savvy co-founder.

Despite initial funding challenges, Neha's relentless drive propelled Clovia to challenge industry incumbents like Zivame, capturing the attention of Reliance. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in Neha's entrepreneurial journey, showcasing her visionary leadership and innovative spirit.

Clovia's success under Neha's stewardship lies in its commitment to inclusivity and innovation. By leveraging technology, the brand offers personalized experiences, with patent-pending algorithms analyzing customer preferences. With a workforce of 600 and indirect employment for over 10,000, Clovia's expansive footprint includes 70 Exclusive Brand Outlets, 250 retail touchpoints, and 140 factories.

Beyond revolutionizing lingerie, Clovia's marketing initiatives, exemplified by the 'Nothing But Real' campaign, champion body positivity and inclusivity. Real women, like acid attack survivor Anmol Rodriguez, feature prominently, resonating with diverse audiences across India's tier-two and tier-three cities.

Neha's entrepreneurial prowess has garnered prestigious accolades, reflecting her dedication to excellence. Yet, beyond professional success, Neha finds fulfillment in sports and cerebral pursuits, embodying a balanced approach to life.

At the forefront of retail innovation, Neha leads discussions at the Phygital Retail Convention, sharing insights to navigate the evolving landscape of commerce. Her journey from a small town to the pinnacle of India's retail industry is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

Doubling from its 2023 value of $1.1 trillion, India's retail sector is set to exceed $2.2 trillion by 2030. Most of the growth will be dominated by the online retail segment that is projected to grow between $150 billion and $200 billion by 2030.

As per a joint report by Accel, Fireside Ventures and Redseer Strategy Consultants, brands are increasingly adopting an omnichannel approach though offline sales currently dominate.

Titled, ‘Decoding Omnichannel: Strategies for D2C Brands,’ the report cities data, personalisation, convenience, and customer engagement across both online and offline touchpoints as factors necessary to ensure a seamless shopping experience.

Prashanth Prakash, Partner, Accel, notes a significant shift in consumer behavior, with brands achieving Rs 100 crore milestone within 18 months, compared to a decade ago. He urges brands to opt for strategic scaling rather than relying solely on financial investments.

According to the report, Indians conduct approximately 24 billion online searches annually across various product categories before making purchases. Notably, 60 per cent of this search volume is concentrated in food and grocery, followed by fashion and lifestyle.

Kanwaljit Singh, Founder and Managing Partner, Fireside Ventures, urges entrepreneurs to develop an omnichannel retail playbook. He recommends them to integrate online and offline experiences into a unified customer journey as the gold standard for success.

Commencing operations online enables brands to swiftly access consumers, receive immediate feedback, and demand minimal initial capital expenditure. However, for sustained growth and the establishment of prominent brands, companies must maintain a presence where consumers are most active, the report says.

Underscoring the significance of omnichannel shopping behavior, the report reveals, omnichannel shoppers spend 2.5 times more than single-channel shoppers. Additionally, 95 per cent of holiday shoppers conduct online research before visiting a store, with 63 per cent confirming product availability online prior to making in-store purchases.

Successful examples of omnichannel strategies include Nykaa, an online e-commerce player generating 60 per cent of its gross merchandise value from Tier II cities, and Caratlane, a jewelry brand with a significant online presence complemented by over 230 offline stores. This approach caters to consumer preferences for physically experiencing high-value purchases before making a decision.

Known for its distinctive kaftan-focused apparel, The Kaftan Company has launched a new loungewear range for men. Dubbed the ‘Twilight Men's Lounge Wear Collection’ the range boasts laid-back designs that take a fresh take on loungewear. The collection offers a blend of patterned kaftans with cotton pyjamas.

Navin Rao, Co-founder, The Kaftan Company says, the new Men's Lounge Wear Collection provides stylish yet comfortable options for men to unwind in. The collection has received an overwhelmingly response since its launch, thus emphasising the growing demand for specially customised innovative loungewear solutions for men.

Offering products starting from Rs 1,499, the new range features a color palette comprising navy and light blues, blacks, neutral tones, and vibrant pops of color. While some pieces exude a monochrome and classic vibe, others boast bold prints such as large checks, stripes, and even leopard prints.

A frontrunner in the loungewear industry, the Kaftan Company boasts an impressive 60 per cent customer retention rate. In addition to its direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform, the brand also distributes its products through various multi-brand online platforms including Myntra, TataCliq, Ajio, and Shoppers Stop, etc.

Ending March 31, 2024, the Q4, FY24 net profit of Relaxo Footwears declined marginally to Rs 61 crore, compared to Rs 63 crore in the corresponding period last fiscal year.

The company's revenue declined by 2 per cent during the quarter to Rs 747 crore from Rs 765 crore in the same quarter of the previous financial year.

For the entire fiscal year 2024, Relaxo's revenue grew to Rs 2,914 crore, while its net profit stood at Rs 200 crore.

Ramesh Kumar Dua, Chairman & Managing Director, Relaxo Footwears, says, the brand has witnessed a modest rise in revenue for FY24, coupled with a notable enhancement in profitability. This achievement was primarily propelled by a considerable surge in open-footwear volumes, underscoring the effectiveness of his wife’s strategic endeavors to recapture market share.

Relaxo is also expanding its e-commerce footprint by directly engaging with consumers through the 'Brand as a Seller' model across major e-commerce platforms. The premier footwear manufacturer in India has a new.

A prominent footwear manufacturer in India renowned for brands like Sparx, Flite, and Bahamas, Relaxo boasts a network of over 405 exclusive-brand outlets nationwide.

In 2027, Indira Gandhi International Airport's Aerocity will unveil India's largest mall spanning over 28 lakh sq ft. Costing $2.5 billion, this transformative endeavor is a significant stride toward the realisation of India's inaugural aerotropolis, a city strategically positioned near an airport, projected to experience an eightfold expansion within the next five years.

Following the mall's grand debut, the global business district is slated for a substantial expansion, adding an extra 65 lakh sq ft. This expansion will culminate in a total leasable area of 1.8 crore sq ft, accommodating offices, retail spaces, food courts, a sprawling entertainment-focused mega mall, and expansive public areas.

The journey towards this ambitious vision began with Delhi International Airport's (DIAL) call for development proposals, supported by GMR, eventually won by Bharti Realty. Bharti now holds the lease for Aerocity.

Raymond plans to boost its garment manufacturing and retail capacity by a third with an investment of Rs 200 crore. This expansion will make the company, the third-largest suit maker globally, says Amit Agarwal, CFO.

Despite facing challenges such as weaker demand in the wedding and general retail sectors due to inflationary pressures in FY24, Raymond remains optimistic about its growth prospects. Highlighting the company's positive performance, Agarwal reveals a notable growth of over 20 per cent in its branded apparel segment on an annual basis.

However, the garmenting segment experienced a decline in the fourth quarter, attributed to the disruptions caused by the Red Sea crisis affecting shipments.

Nonetheless, Raymond has a robust order book supported by initiatives like Make in India and the China plus one policy, which significantly benefit Indian garment manufacturers, notes Agarwal. In its quarter ended March 31, Raymond recently reported an 18 per cent increase in consolidated net profit to Rs 229 crore with revenue reaching Rs 2,688 crore compared to Rs 2,192 crore in the same period last year.

Arvind Limited, India's foremost textile-to-technology conglomerate, elevates Susheel Kaul to the position of Managing Director & President - Textile Cluster, effective April 1st, 2024.

Currently serving as President & CEO of Textiles and Apparels, Kaul's appointment underscores the company's commitment to seasoned leadership.

In his statement, Kaul expressed eagerness and honor in assuming this pivotal role, emphasizing Arvind Ltd's esteemed heritage and his dedication to advancing its legacy of excellence and innovation.

With over 30 years of industry experience and a Master's degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Kaul's leadership is poised to steer Arvind Ltd towards continued growth and global prominence.

A renowned fashion event’s organiser based in Kolkata, Sutraa is all set to host its much-anticipated shopping fairs across three vibrant cities in India this May. Dubbed as a celebration of Indian fashion and accessories, Sutraa's upcoming events promise to unveil an exciting array of summer collections while introducing shoppers to a plethora of new labels.

The first of these fairs will be held on May 17, 2024 in Vizag. The two-day extravaganza will be held at the elegant premises of Hotel Novotel. The event will showcase a diverse range of product categories, spanning from women's ethnic, traditional, to fusion wear, alongside a captivating selection of accessories, jewelry, homeware, and gift items. Among the lineup of esteemed brands are names like Jaipur World, V Studio Rajasthan, Pehchaan, Lush, and Sequiaa Clothing, ensuring a delightful shopping experience for all.

Post Vizag, Sutraa will be held in Vijayawada from May 20-21, 2024 at the A Plus Convention Hall. Showcasing a blend of local designers and brands from distant locales, this edition of the event will cater to shoppers seeking trendy holiday wear and essential travel companions.

The last of these events will be held in Raipur from May 24-26, 2024 at the prestigious Triton by Shyama Hotels and Resorts. The event ,over three days, will showcase summer and resort fashion, highlighting the perfect ensembles for destination weddings and sizzling festivities under the sun.

Renowned for curating premium brands and appealing primarily to a female, millennial demographic, Sutraa Exhibitions captivates fashion enthusiasts nationwide with its meticulously crafted shopping fairs. The company reaffirms its premium position in the industry through its innovative approach and dedication to showcasing the best of Indian fashion.

A recent report by Knight Frank India, reveals, the number of ‘ghost malls,’ defined as those with over 40 per cent vacancy rates, jumped from 57 in 2022 to 64 in 2023 across eight key cities.

This trend reflects a shift in consumer and retailer preferences towards higher-end shopping experiences. The report reveals a significant rise in underperforming malls, with a total area of 13.3 million sq ft categorised as ghost malls in 2023. This translates to a staggering 58 per cent increase in vacant space compared to the previous year.

The rise of ghost malls has resulted in substantial financial losses, estimated at Rs 6,700 crore ($798 million) in 2023. The National Capital Region (NCR) witnessed the highest concentration of ghost malls, followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru. However, Hyderabad bucked the trend and saw a decline in ghost mall presence. Kolkata, on the other hand, experienced the sharpest rise, albeit starting from a lower base.

The report highlights a clear distinction in performance between mall categories. Grade A malls continue to perform well with high occupancy rates and strong customer traffic. In contrast, Grade C malls and ghost malls are struggling. This is prompting landlords to explore strategies for either revitalising these properties or selling them off.

Interestingly, the total number of shopping centers in Tier I cities has actually decreased despite the addition of new ones. This decrease is due to the closure of 16 malls, either demolished for redevelopment or permanently shut down and potentially auctioned.

Based on the survey of over 340 shopping centers and 58 high streets across 29 Indian cities, Knight Frank's report provides valuable insights into the current state of the retail sector and the challenges faced by malls in different categories.

A leading premium fashion brand, Ekresha has launched its e-commerce website to offer a wide range of Benarasi fabrics like silk, cotton, georgette, linen,etc to customers from across the country.

The brand also plans to expand its physical presence in Mumbai and Bengaluru. It recently launched its premium collection at Taj Khazana outlets in Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai, marking a strategic move towards reaching discerning clientele across key cities.

Viraj Shah, Founder, Ekresha, affirms, the brand aims to preserve Benaras's rich cultural heritage while seamlessly integrating modernity. It will prove to be a gateway for global patrons to experience premium fabrics that narrate tales of exquisite craftsmanship and tradition, Shah adds.

The name 'Ekresha' draws its essence from Sanskrit, where 'ek' signifies 'one,' and 'resha' is derived from 'Rasa,' symbolising the essence of a silk thread. This name embodies the brand's ethos of singular beauty and timeless elegance woven into every fabric it offers.

India's bustling cities are witnessing a revolution in how people shop. Enter quick commerce, or q-commerce, the new kid on the e-commerce block promising delivery of essentials and more in under an hour. This sector has seen explosive growth, and it's not slowing down anytime soon. Quick commerce (Q-commerce), the delivery of essentials and everyday items within minutes, has become a game-changer in India's retail landscape.

From lockdowns to lightning speed

The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly played a catalytic role. Lockdowns restricted movement, pushing Indians towards online grocery shopping. However, the existing e-commerce model, with deliveries taking days, wasn't ideal for immediate needs. Q-commerce emerged to bridge this gap, offering a solution for that forgotten carton of milk or a last-minute birthday gift.

As per Redseer Strategy Consultants, India's q-commerce Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) skyrocketed a staggering 77 per cent year-on-year in 2023. This impressive growth comes despite an overall slowdown in the e-commerce market, highlighting the unique appeal of q-commerce. One prominent example of a Q-commerce player is Zepto, boasting deliveries in 10 minutes or less, CEO, Aadit Palicha, emphasizes the company's focus on “fulfilling needs, not wants.” This philosophy aligns perfectly with the core concept of Q-commerce - providing instant access to essentials.

The Indian q-commerce market is estimated to reach a $45 billion, significantly larger than the food delivery market. Analysts predict growth to continue at 40-45 per cent over the next few years, with a potential surge in user base.

Perfect storm for q-commerce growth

Several factors have propelled q-commerce forward.

• Urban consumer cravings: Busy lifestyles in cities create a demand for instant gratification. Q-commerce caters to this need by eliminating the need for physical store visits.

• Smartphone savvy: India's booming smartphone user base translates to a population comfortable with mobile shopping. Q-commerce apps provide a seamless user experience for on-the-go purchases.

• Deep pockets and innovation: Well-funded startups like Dunzo, Swiggy Instamart, Zomato Blinkit, and even established players like Amazon Fresh are investing heavily in optimizing delivery networks, expanding product categories, and offering attractive discounts to attract customers.

Fashion finds a place in the fast lane

While groceries dominate the q-commerce landscape currently, the fashion and lifestyle sector is starting to take notice. Busy professionals and fashion enthusiasts might find the convenience of quick delivery for forgotten accessories or a last-minute outfit change appealing. Major players like Myntra are exploring partnerships with q-commerce platforms to offer faster delivery options for apparel and accessories. Experts predict this segment to grow as consumers become accustomed to the convenience of quick deliveries for non-essential items as well. However, challenges remain. Unlike standardized grocery items, fashion products require a wider variety in terms of size, color, and fit. Streamlining the return and exchange process will be crucial for q-commerce to gain traction in fashion.

Indeed, the path forward is not without challenges. Ensuring profitability in a hyper-competitive market with razor-thin margins and the high cost of maintaining a robust delivery network will be crucial. Additionally, ethical sourcing, sustainable packaging, and responsible labor practices must be prioritized to create a long-term, sustainable model. As the segment expands, the battle for dominance will likely extend beyond groceries, with fashion and lifestyle potentially becoming the next battleground.

Clothing and lifestyle brand Jodi has launched its debut store in Mumbai. The brand recently opened its first exclusive brand outlet at Kala Ghoda housing the label’s brightly colored clothing and accessories.

Describing itself as the ‘Indian high street with a heart,’ Jodi launched its operations with an aim to bring together the interests of its founders Gauri Verma and Karuna Laugani in crafts, culture, fashion and travel. The brand retails its products online from its direct to customer e-commerce store and its open studio in Pune’s Wanowrie neighborhood.

Jodi also has a small showroom in Wanowrie. It recently revamped its Pune store to make it more colorful and engaging with a house party.