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Retail Sector Soars 10% in August on Strong Consumer Demand, Festive Season Ahead
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News18•23-09-2026, 16:30
Retail Sector Soars 10% in August on Strong Consumer Demand, Festive Season Ahead
- •India's retail sector experienced a 10% year-on-year growth across the country in August, according to a Retailers Association of India (RAI) survey.
- •This consistent growth, following a strong recovery in July, indicates robust industry preparation for the upcoming festive season.
- •West India led regional growth at 11%, with South India matching the national average at 10%, while East and North India saw 8% and 9% growth respectively.
- •Quick service restaurants (QSR) and food & grocery were primary growth drivers, peaking at 15% and 12% respectively, with apparel and footwear also showing steady expansion.
- •RAI Executive Director and CEO Kumar Rajagopalan noted the encouraging rebound since July, emphasizing precise execution and inventory planning for the festive season despite global macroeconomic conditions.
Key Questions Answered
India's retail sector recorded a 10 per cent year-on-year pan-India growth in August, driven by stable consumer demand and preparation for the festive season.
West India outperformed other zones with an 11 per cent growth rate, while South India matched the national average at 10 per cent.
Essential and routine categories drove growth, with quick service restaurants peaking at 15 per cent and food & grocery reaching 12 per cent.
