Whalesbook
Indian retail sales showed resilience in April, achieving a 7% year-on-year growth, according to the Retailers Association of India (RAI). This expansion signals sustained consumer demand across various product categories and geographic locations. Despite the positive top-line performance, the industry body has raised concerns regarding escalating cost pressures.
Navigating Consumer Choices and Efficiencies
Discretionary spending remains cautious, with consumers making careful choices. However, demand for essential goods continues to provide a stable foundation for the sector. Retailers are actively implementing strategies such as refined inventory planning, introducing value-oriented products, and enhancing operational efficiencies to safeguard profit margins.
Regional Performance
West India emerged as the top-performing region, reporting 9% growth. The South followed with 8%, while North and Pan-India figures stood at 7% each. East India registered a more moderate growth of 5%.
Category-Specific Growth
The consumer durables and electronics segment spearheaded growth with an 11% increase. Food and grocery sales rose by 9%, with apparel and quick-service restaurants (QSR) segments each posting 8% growth. The footwear segment recorded 7% growth. Sports goods and beauty and wellness segments saw approximately 5% growth. Furniture and furnishing segments experienced the slowest growth, at 4% in April 2026 compared to the previous year.