FRAI Urges Govt To Provide Enhanced Tech Platforms To Kirana Stores To Help Them Compete With Quick Commerce

The body noted that providing the local shops with such a technology would help them compete on equal terms with quick commerce players and create a level playing field

The Federation of Retailer Association of India on Tuesday called on the authorities to provide advanced technology to Kirana stores. The Federation urged the government to give enhanced technology platform to the local retailers to help them compete with the quick commerce companies.

“Such support would enable the kirana stores to remain competitive amidst the increasing encroachment into their space by quick commerce companies like Swiggy Instamart, Blinkit or Zepto,” the FRAI said. Notably, the body represents nearly 80 lakh micro, small, and medium retailers across the country and has a membership of 42 retail associations, reported PTI.

The body noted that providing the local shops with such a technology would help them compete on equal terms with quick commerce players and create a level playing field.

Abhaj Raj Mishra, Honorary Spokesperson, FRAI, said, “With new technologies brought in by the government, like ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce), what is now required is a more focused approach in creating a specific solution for kirana stores that makes them as discoverable and accessible to customers, much like the way quick commerce companies are operating. Essentially, the kirana stores should remain competitive by being empowered to tap into the growing digital market and meet new customer needs.”

Mishra is also the member and national coordinator of the Indian Sellers Collective. Further, Lok Sabha member, Praveen Khandelwal, noted that kirana stores are finding it very difficult due to the growth of quick commerce players. Shopkeepers need to remain updated and adopt all channels to cater to the evolving needs and expectations of the customers, he added.

The Federation noted that quick commerce entities enjoy an unfair advantage over Kirana stores as the latter cannot match up to the heavy discounts offered by these companies who have the benefit of deep pockets, large warehouses, and a huge customer base.