If winter comes, can binge be far behind? Retailers stock up as demand seen continuing after festivity

Kolkata|Mumbai: Consumer goods retailers and kirana stores are stocking up on winter products in earnest after festive season forecasts proved gross underestimations in various categories and demand outstripped supplies in the wake of the goods and services tax (GST) rate cuts.

Primary sales, from companies to retailers, are up about 20% year-on-year in anticipation of a robust season ahead, aided by improved liquidity among traders and retailers after buoyant festive sales, said industry executives.