Indian retailers pin festive hopes on GST cut as H1 demand stays sluggish
Retailers are banking on Navratri-Diwali 2025 and a potential GST rationalisation to revive weak discretionary spend after a soft first half. Quick commerce migration and middle-class budget strain threaten to cap the festive upside despite inventory build-ups.
What happened
footfall · Indian retailers are banking on the 2025 Navratri-Diwali festive window and possible GST rationalisation to revive weak discretionary demand after a
Why this matters
Pressure on mid-tier apparel and lifestyle retailers creates a window to scout distressed targets or quick-commerce tuck-ins, as weak H1 cash flows and inventory overhang will force strategic conversations by Q4.