A Study of Retail Trade with special reference to Grocery Trade in Kolhapur city

Abstract

The first topic entitled as introduction covers the basic concepts associated with retail, retailing and retail trade. Further, the topic mentions the origin and history of the retailing and various retailing theories. The chapter mentions about various elements in grocery retailing like small grocery shopkeepers, hypermarkets, wholesaler and three different segments of the customers. The chapter outlines need and significance of the study and its relevance and uniqueness. Further, it states about objectives, scope, limitations, and hypothesis formulated of the study. newline newlineIn a fast changing world scenario, trade has assumed a significant role. It is a potentially very powerful instrument of economic development. As an impact of globalization, both domestic and international trades are facing many challenges. In a country like India where a vast majority of people live in rural and semi urban areas, trade becomes even more important, in so far as essential goods are concerned. Time has come when the impact of the changing situation on trade, particularly grocery retail trade needs to be carefully analyzed. With this view in the mind, the present study focuses upon studying different facets of retail trading with special reference to grocery products. newline newlineThe nature of retail trade in India is such that it includes in its fold small retailers, wholesalers, hypermarkets and customers. It is necessary that the interdependence of all these factors is to be carefully studied. In the present situation, retail trade is passing through the transition phase. Thus, it becomes appropriate to consider all these aspects of grocery retail trade and analyze their operations. newline newline newline