How 'Make In India' Is A Catalyst For India's Soaring Consumer Spending

Online marketplaces have gained significant popularity, with 80 per cent of Indian consumers favouring them for their convenience and wide range of choices.

By Avneet Singh Marwah

India's consumer spending is set to witness a remarkable surge, exceeding $4 trillion by 2030. This growth can be attributed to initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, which have fostered domestic manufacturing and instilled a sense of self-reliance among Indian consumers. These programmes have not only impacted consumer spending patterns but have also provided opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to tap into the expanding market.

India's Shift Towards Cashless Economy

One of the key preferences of Indian consumers is the use of UPI as a mode of payment, with 57 per cent favouring this digital payment system. This highlights the increasing adoption of technology and the shift towards a cashless economy. Additionally, online marketplaces have gained significant popularity, with 80 per cent of Indian consumers favouring them for their convenience and wide range of choices.

Digital transformation has become imperative for businesses in India to capitalize on the growing consumer spending market. With the rapid proliferation of smartphones and widespread internet access, consumers are increasingly turning to online platforms for their purchasing needs. E-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart have already established a strong presence in the country, catering to the needs of tech-savvy consumers.

To succeed in this digital era, businesses must prioritize their online presence, provide seamless user experiences, and leverage data analytics to gain insights into consumer preferences. By embracing digital transformation, companies can tap into India's vast consumer base, which is projected to reach 1.4 billion people by 2025.

Issues Plaguing Logistics Infrastructure

Despite the surge in consumer spending, India's logistics infrastructure still faces challenges. Poor connectivity, inadequate warehousing facilities, and complex taxation systems hinder the efficient movement of goods across the country. These bottlenecks lead to delays, increased costs, and a subpar customer experience. To overcome these challenges, businesses should invest in improving their supply chain management, leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain to optimize logistics operations. Additionally, collaborations with logistics providers and adopting innovative last-mile delivery solutions can help businesses bridge the gap between customers and products.

Building trust and loyalty among consumers is crucial for businesses looking to thrive in India's consumer spending market. Indian consumers are becoming increasingly discerning and value-conscious, demanding high-quality products and personalized experiences. To foster trust, businesses must prioritize transparency, integrity, and ethical practices. By delivering on promises, providing excellent customer service, and maintaining consistent product quality, companies can build long-lasting relationships with their customers. Moreover, leveraging social media and influencer marketing can help businesses engage with consumers and create brand advocates.

Evolving Consumer Landscape

India's consumer landscape is evolving, with changing preferences and aspirations among different demographic segments. The rise of the middle class, urbanization, and increased disposable income have led to a shift in consumer behaviour. Businesses need to understand these changing preferences and tailor their products and services accordingly. For instance, sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, and entertainment are expected to witness significant growth. By aligning their offerings with these changing preferences, businesses can tap into new customer segments and drive growth.

As India's consumer spending continues to soar, businesses can explore specific sectors that are poised for growth. For instance, the rise of the gig economy has created opportunities in sectors like food delivery, ride-hailing, and e-commerce. By leveraging the power of technology and catering to the needs of gig workers, businesses can tap into this emerging market. Additionally, with the increasing focus on health and wellness, sectors like organic food, fitness, and wellness products are experiencing rapid growth. By developing innovative products and services in these sectors, businesses can capitalize on changing consumer preferences and contribute to the overall growth of India's consumer spending market.

India's growing consumer spending market presents immense opportunities for businesses, driven by government initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. To succeed in this dynamic landscape, businesses must embrace digital transformation, address logistics inefficiencies, build trust and loyalty among consumers, adapt to changing preferences, and cater to specific sectors expected to experience growth. By leveraging these strategies, businesses can navigate the evolving consumer landscape in India and unlock the immense potential for growth and success. The key lies in understanding and meeting the needs of the Indian consumer, who is now more empowered and discerning than ever before.

(The author is the CEO of SPPL, the exclusive brand licensee of Thompson, Blaupunkt, Kodak and Westinghouse TVs in India.)

Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP Network Pvt. Ltd.