Kiranas leverage consumer relationships to compete with q-comm – Banking & Finance News

Kirana store owners in Mumbai are stepping up their game to compete with the rising trend of quick commerce platforms. Suresh Kumar and Darshan Patel, two such owners, are finding innovative ways to retain their customer base and counter the allure of fast delivery promised by online giants.

Kumar has increased his home delivery service and hired extra help to ensure timely service to his customers. Patel, on the other hand, has set up a WhatsApp group to keep his loyal customers updated on new products and offers. Both are focusing on personalized service and quick response times to stay ahead in the game.

A recent study by Kirana Club revealed that 35% of mom-and-pop stores in cities with quick commerce services have seen a 10-30% impact on sales. While this may seem limited at the moment, experts warn that the threat to traditional retailers is real.

Fast-moving consumer goods companies are also adapting to the changing landscape by offering bundled deals and low-unit packs to traditional trade. They are focusing on different product strategies for general trade versus quick commerce, ensuring that they cater to the unique needs of each segment.

As the battle between kirana stores and quick commerce heats up, the future of retail in India remains uncertain. While the top cities currently dominate quick commerce orders, the potential for expansion into rural areas is on the horizon. It’s a challenging time for traditional retailers, but with the right strategies in place, they can continue to thrive in the ever-evolving market.