Retailing in India: Historical Background and New Trends

The retailing sector in India has undergone significant transformation in the past 10 years. Traditionally, Indian retail sector has been characterized by the presence of a large number of small-unorganized retailers. However, in the past decade there has been development of organized retailing, which has encouraged large private sector player to invest in this sector. Many foreign players have also entered India through different routes such as test marketing, franchising, wholesale cash-and-carry operation. With high GDP growth, increased consumerism and liberalization of the manufacturing sector, India is being portrayed as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in retailing.The present paper aims to explore the historical background and new Trends of retailing in India