Rajkot retail business unaffected by recession

While most of the sectors across the country have been affected by recession, retail business in small cities like Rajkot have been relatively immune to it. According to a Big Bazaar official, the city is still witnessing considerable consumer spending in the recent times.

Part of the Future Group, Big Bazaar announced its three-day shopping event 'Sabse Saste 3 Din' beginning from January 24, 2009.

Talking about the retail business scenario in Rajkot, Rajdip Vala, manager at Big Bazaar said, "Recession might have hit almost everyone, especially in the retail business across the country, Rajkot has been relatively immune. We are still witnessing considerable consumer spending and good footfalls despite slowdown. Since people are capitalising on discounts and special schemes, we are continuing with the 'Sabse Saste 3 Din' scheme like every year."

According to Vala, while other players are also announcing heavy discounts it is only organised players like Big Bazaar that have been able to draw consumers.

"Last year, during the three days of the offer, the store in Rajkot saw a footfall of about 45,000 people," said Naveen Agrawal, manager, operations at Future Group. Overall, the group has 106 Big Bazaar stores in 55 cities in India.