In technical terms, retail refers to the process whereby goods and services are sold by individuals or businesses to end users. Types of retailing differ according to marketing strategies and include department stores, discount stores, general stores, specialty stores, convenience stores, supermarkets and shopping malls. India has one of the largest retail industries in the whole world and the industry has been a major contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and a significant employment generator. The Indian retail market ranks among the top five in the world in terms of economic value. The rising population and the increasing income levels have proved to be a boon for the country’s retail industry. However, a large part of the country’s retail markets are unorganized, and people usually purchase from single owner-driven small establishments. Large shopping malls and supermarkets have a small presence in tier 1 and tier 2 cities mostly. Hide this