What: A panorama of the main retail players in India.

Why it is important: Although incomplete, and potentially confusing the department store format with malls, this articles gives a good understanding of the current state of a market expected to boom in the coming years.

India's modern-format department stores began with Shoppers Stop in 1991, and others like Pantaloons, Lifestyle, and Central followed. Despite initial success, they faced challenges like limited selection and frustrating checkout experiences.

Globally, the department stores market is expected to reach USD 166.08 billion by 2028. In India, modern retail (including department stores) is projected to grow to USD 230 billion by 2030. Players like Shoppers Stop, Lifestyle, Central, Pantaloons, and Reliance Trends have expanded, adapted, and ventured online. However, challenges from e-commerce and changing consumer preferences are impacting department store popularity.

Taking stock of the department store situation in India