Retailers in the country recorded 7 per cent year-on-year growth in April reflecting steady demand across categories and regions, according to the latest survey released by the Retailers Association of India. However, the industry body flagged concerns about cost pressures. It added that while discretionary purchases remain selective, essential categories are sustaining momentum.
Retailers are focusing on sharper inventory planning, value-driven offerings, and operational efficiencies to maintain margins. Kumar Rajagopalan, Executive Director and CEO, RAI, said, “Retail in India has witnessed a modest 7 per cent growth in April ‘26. Decent but not exciting. Global cost pressures are real, and they are showing up in how businesses are operating across categories. India has navigated these pressures better than many others. Consumers still want to spend — that intent is there, and that matters. But retailers are being careful, and rightly so.”
Region-wise Growth
Region-wise, West India reported the highest growth at 9 per cent followed by South at 8 per cent, while North and Pan-India growth stood at 7 per cent each. East India recorded relatively moderate growth at 5 per cent.
In terms of categories, consumer durables and electronics segment led with 11 per cent growth in April year-on-year. While food and grocery segment recorded 9 per cent growth, apparel and QSR segments saw 8 per cent growth each.
Segment Growth
Meanwhile, footwear segment posted 7 per cent growth. Retailers continue to navigate a demand environment marked by cautious consumer spending and increasing operating costs, RAI noted.
Sports goods and beauty and wellness segments posted about 5 per cent growth each. At the same time, furniture and furnishing segments posted the lowest growth at 4 per cent in April 2026 over the same month in the past year.
Published on May 22, 2026