FDI in multi-brand retail: an empirical study of consumers in NCR region (India)

During recent years major thrust to India's economic growth has come from services sector; however, this growth needs to be more inclusive. For imparting a more inclusive character to services sector, it is imperative to touch upon domains like retail where participation of people percolates down to the lowest level. This sector requires huge investments to achieve quantum leap in productivity and efficiency. Foreign direct investment (FDI) is often quoted as a vital instrument for catalysing these positive changes. Issue of FDI in retail has been marred with controversies, most of which have political connotations. Though foreign players are already operating in the Indian market as cash and carry and single brand retail formats, present debate centres on permitting FDI in multi-brand retailing. Different stakeholders have different opinions based on their perception of the likely impact of FDI on their interests. Against this backdrop, present study attempts to take stock of consumer opinion on FDI in multi-brand retail. This study is based on primary data collected from a sample of 660 urban shoppers from Delhi National Capital Region. Research findings present a strong case in favour of permitting FDI in multi-brand retail in India.