This article examines the implications penetration and expansion of what is often called “organised retail” or “modern retail” , though “corporate retail” would be the more accurate term. Those who support corporate retail have argued...
moreThis article examines the implications penetration and expansion of what is often called “organised retail” or “modern retail” , though “corporate retail” would be the more accurate term. Those who support corporate retail have argued that this is a positive development, one that will lead to a sea change in the conditions of consumption and production in India. It will herald lower prices, more choice, less wastage and economic growth.
We argue here that this positive picture is a misrepresentation. The growth of corporate retail not only will not address the key problems plaguing India's economy today – it will greatly exacerbate many of them. In particular, the crisis in agriculture, environmental destruction, declines in land productivity, urban unemployment, price volatility and unequal access to resources would all be worsened by unchecked growth of corporate retail. This article focuses on food retail, the subject of most of the debate.
