The business of retail in India has seen significant changes in the last few years. We have seen the emergence of new formats and the application of global concepts and constructs albeit with modifications to suit the Indian environment. It not only provides the Indian consumer a wide choice, but also represents a very large employment opportunity for people with diverse skill sets.

This book was written after my personal experience of not finding a book that presented retailing management from the Indian perspective. Aimed at the student of retailing management, this book has been written in a simple manner to aid easy comprehension of the underlying theory and concepts.

The text has been presented in five sections. Section I introduces the reader to basic concepts and theories, different formats and the evolution of the industry. Section II focuses on strategy, planning and the retail consumer. Section III covers different aspects of merchandise management and Section IV sets out different aspects of management of the retail business. In Section V, the reader is exposed to creating and sustaining value propositions for the retail customer.

This book has two unique features—the ‘retail snapshot’ and ‘case studies of Indian retailers’. Retail snapshots have been provided to illustrate concepts and practices and to enhance learning. The section on cases for study provides the student with insights into the strategies adopted by some of the leading Indian retailers.

I shall appreciate and acknowledge all comments and suggestions aimed at improving the content of the book.

SWAPNA PRADHAN