Visakhapatnam hosts first retail summit to spotlight growth beyond metros
: The Retailers Association of India (RAI) hosted the first-ever Visakhapatnam Retail Summit (VRS) 2025 in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant moment in the evolution of Andhra Pradesh's retail landscape.
The summit brought together key stakeholders from the state's vibrant retail ecosystem for meaningful conversations around opportunities, challenges, and the future of consumer engagement.
Centred on the theme 'Profitability and Innovation Beyond Metros,' the summit focused on how retailers across Andhra Pradesh are adapting to a changing consumer base—one that is increasingly digital, discerning, and aspirational.
Discussions explored the role of technology, localised strategies, and policy support in enabling growth across Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets.
Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of RAI, underlined retail's growing influence in India's economy. 'Retail is a strong contributor to the nation's GDP and a key generator of employment. The shift we are witnessing in non-metro markets is shaping the next wave of retail expansion. Andhra Pradesh, with its favourable policies and ease of doing business, is providing a nurturing environment for retail to flourish,' he said.
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The summit featured a series of keynote addresses and panel discussions, including sessions titled 'Retailing in Andhra' and 'The Smart Store Revolution.' Esteemed retail brands such as Neeru's, Kankatala, BigBasket, CMR Group, Creamstone, and Vishal Peripherals shared their experiences and insights on regional market dynamics.
Speaking at the summit, Avnish Anand, Director of Neeru's and Chairman, RAI Hyderabad Chapter, highlighted Andhra Pradesh's growing retail momentum.
'The state strikes a unique balance between hyperlocal sensibilities and global aspirations. Visakhapatnam is rapidly evolving as a hub of both talent and innovation,' he said.
Mavuri Venkatramana, CMD of CMR Textiles and Jewellers Pvt. Ltd., observed that the modern consumer in Andhra is 'aspirational, digitally aware, and increasingly inclined towards local brands while embracing global trends.'
Adding to the perspective, Kankatala Mallikharjuna Rao, MD of Kankatala Textiles, noted that today's consumers are 'seeking convenience, curated experiences, and digital engagement,' especially in rising urban centres like Visakhapatnam.
The event concluded with an engaging networking session, reinforcing RAI's commitment to nurturing retail growth in Andhra Pradesh's emerging cities.
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