The Retailers Association of India (RAI), basis its survey, has said that a 6 per cent yearly increase in retail sales was reported in March 2025 compared to the same month of 2024. The survey figures point to steady domestic demand at a time when global trade conditions remain unsettled.
It said that North and West India recorded the highest year-on-year growth at 8 per cent each. East and South India followed with a 5 per cent rise. Among categories, food and grocery led with 11 per cent growth, while quick service restaurants (QSR) grew by 9 per cent. Footwear and consumer durables-electronics grew at a slower rate of 2 per cent and 3 per cent, respectively.
It also stated a cautious but steady outlook among retailers, with no significant drops in consumer spending. While concerns remain about the wider impact of global trade tensions, current trends suggest that domestic consumption is largely unaffected.
Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of RAI, said retail businesses in India reflects growth. However, double digit growth is still eluding the sector. Customers are spending cautiously but are willing to spend on aspirational and innovative products. He added discretionary spending keeps shifting from one category to another and hence no category has been witnessing steady growth month on month.
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