Why are small retailers, or at least those supposed to be representing their interests, up in arms over the proposal to allow foreign investment in multi-brand retail of the Wal-Mart type? As “Retail therapy” (July 12) points out, there is simply not enough physical space available in urban India for organised retail to spread its wings. If such shops are going to be far away from consumers’ homes, this makes their life that much more difficult.
Moreover, kirana shops have a tremendous advantage in terms of their lower overheads and ability to provide personalised service to customers.
A K Sharma, New Delhi
