Creating the most extensive network of neighborhood 1K Kirana Stores in the hinterland
According to data, there are approximately 13 million grocery kirana stores in India. These stores contribute billions of dollars to the Indian economy, empower millions of people, and sustain the nation’s livelihoods. The concept of kirana stores is based on their closeness to the local community. The practice of walk-ins and physical interaction is beneficial not only economically but also socially.
However, there is a need to develop resilience and adapt to changing trends, particularly in adopting digital technology. The kirana industry is currently confronting numerous challenges. Rising from the ashes of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is still concern about the onslaught of big FMCG players. However, the industry provides opportunities as well. As previously stated, opportunities exist in digital technologies, but outlets must be deliberate.
Brands such as 1K Kirana, which works directly with its Kirana partners through a franchise-first and community-led approach and is armed with the most up-to-date tools, knowledge, and advanced technologies, are employing a variety of proven business strategies to make every stakeholder productive. The brand’s platform has over 3 lakh active users and has serviced over 10 lakh customers.
According to Kumar Sangeteesh, Founder & CEO of 1K Kirana, the kirana segment has the potential to become digitally compliant and contend effectively in the retail ecosystem. We intend to significantly expand, with 5,000 stores scheduled by the end of 2023. That’s roughly three times the amount of stores currently in operation,” he says.
