Positive data has emerged regarding retail sales and shopping trends across the country during the festive season. According to the Retailers Association of India's September business survey, an eight percent growth in sales was recorded this festive season.

Retailers Association of India CEO Kumar Rajopalan stated that market sentiment remained favorable during the festive period. According to the Sanket pre-Navratri analysis, total festive spending increased by 13.9 percent.

Regional spending patterns

The analysis indicates that the eastern region recorded the highest growth in fashion and lifestyle spending at 28.3 percent. In the same region, spending on groceries increased by 19.4 percent and jewelry spending rose by 13.1 percent.

Growth in tier-3 cities and consumer caution

During the July-September quarter, tier-3 cities performed better than metropolitan areas. However, consumers remain cautious regarding household budgets amid global uncertainties, geopolitical tensions, rising petroleum prices, and inflation.