Retail sales in India witnessed a 5% increase in January 2025 compared to the same month last year, according to the latest Retail Business Survey by the Retailers Association of India (RAI).
Among regions, West India recorded the highest growth at 7%, while North and South India each saw a 5% rise. East India lagged slightly behind, reporting 4% growth.
Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, RAI, highlighted that the retail sector’s recovery was primarily driven by the food & grocery category, which grew by 13%. He noted that the Union Budget 2025’s income tax exemption limit of ₹12 lakh has provided much-needed relief to retailers following last year’s slowdown.
“Consumer preferences continue to evolve, requiring retailers to adapt swiftly and refine their operational strategies to remain competitive,” Rajagopalan added.
Category-Wise Performance
- Food & grocery led the sectoral growth with a 13% surge.
- Consumer durables and quick service restaurants (QSRs) registered 6% growth each, reflecting increased consumer spending.
- Apparel and footwear saw a 4% rise, while jewelry grew by 3%.
- Beauty & wellness and sporting goods recorded 2% growth, whereas furniture and furnishing posted the lowest increase at 1%.
As the apex body of retailers in India, RAI continues to collaborate with industry stakeholders to foster a conducive environment for the modern retail sector’s expansion.
