Class of 2008 at ISB Organizes ISB Leadership Summit 2007

Class of 2008 at ISB Organizes ISB Leadership Summit 2007

Organized retailing in India is poised for a paradigm shift as the sector witnesses meteoric growth. Slowing growth and decreasing profits in their domestic markets is pushing foreign retailers to international markets. India, with its immense market

potential, is primed as the most attractive retail market globally. This provides a window of opportunity to local retailers, who are at an advantage due to knowledge of the domestic market. Multiple retail formats will thrive in the Indian context depending on the consumer need satisfied. They discussed that the country is geared for higher growth in non-food categories such as Staples, Apparel, Electronics, and Personal care.

In the euphoria of hyper retail growth, certain segments in our society are getting neglected and there is a need to use unique strategies such as e-tailing focused on creating access at the bottom of the pyramid. Yet another challenge for Indian retailers lies in offering value for money to price conscious Indian consumers. Some areas of retailer concern such as product liability, regulatory measures, foreign direct investment caps and dealing with local partners need to be addressed for making the segment more attractive. Investments in brand management, supply chain management, policy changes and moving to an organized retail sector will add value to all stakeholders. Retailers need different retailing models depending on the customer segment being targeted. Microfinance, logistics management support, training in customer service and effective use of IT can all lead to inclusive growth through efficient supply chains.

The panel was unanimous in highlighting the challenges that faced the sector. Infrastructure, inefficient supply chains, regulatory and policy issues were the key areas that need to be focused on for ensuring rapid and sustainable growth in the retail industry.

Track II: The Effective Use of Technology in the Education Sector

The keynote address was delivered by Rajendra Pawar, Chairman, NIIT. He shared the various initiatives taken by NIIT to ensure that education percolates down to where it is most needed - the children in remote villages. 'Hole in the wall' was one such initiative. It was essentially an interactive kiosk connecting the children to the world of computers and Internet and this has now proliferated to various parts of India as wells as some parts of Africa.

The panel had participation from Udai Singh Pawar, Assistant Researcher, Microsoft, Sunil Kandlikar, GM, Managed Learning Services, Adayana, Dr. Sandhya Chintala, Director, Education Initiative, NASSCOM and Dr. A SaiBaba Goud, Chairman, Devnar Foundation for the Blind.

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Contributed by -
Ms. Bhuvana Ramalingam,
Director - Communications,
Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.

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