MAPIC 24 : A retailers Mela in Mumbai

 Mapic 24

Mapic an annual event of retailers, developers and consultants held as a ritual every year in Mumbai for past 20 years. I would call it a Mela albert a sophisticated one.

Real estate developers put their stalls like shop keepers set up temporary sheds in the mela to attract their clients viz brands. Brands’s people feel like “Kings” for whom shop keepers are waiting for shopping. Sandwiched between those two are property consultants who are running behind both brands and developers to crack the deal of shopping. Brokers behave like modern Pandits to tie knots of the the developers and brands. Every one tries their own ways to attract their customers Some speak fluent english, some play the game of eyes, some play rhetoric, offers all incentives, welcome them with coffee, tea and of course grand parties in outside venue.

Like in Mela, loud music and dance become integral part of the conference so that all three stakeholders can march together.

And last category is of the penalists and speakers who come prepared to deliver their talk but hardly finds audiences as the traders are busy in selling their stuff. Why to waste time in Gyan ki bat…..

The conference organisers Mapic India put in yet long efforts like Mela exhibitors to brings shoppers and shop keepers to bring them together. They charge astronomical fee to put stalls and hefty fee from
customers to make it exclusive.

What a beautiful and colourful mela. Simply enjoyed of course cut short to a day only.

Be careful

 Story : Be careful

In 1994, Kamal was working with a company in Mumbai. His company’s official bank account was with a Public Sector Bank and so he also opened his personal account there.

As a habit he used to send his office boy for banking transactions, cheques deposit, cash withdrawals, bringing cheque book, Passbook entries etc.

Kamal used to update his passbook on monthly basis. One fine day he noticed three entries of withdrawals in his passbooks albeit very small amounts Rs 100, Rs 100 and Rs 150 on different dates.

Kamal had never withdrawn such small amount from the bank and so he scratched his head and straight went to the bank.

The clerk argued that the money was withdrawn as per cheque issued by him only. The clerk was not ready to show the voucher as it was time consuming. But Kamal insisted and finally on intervention of Manager the vouchers were shown. It was a great surprise for all three of them that on forged signatuture the money was withdrawn. The clerk told him that he didn’t verify the signature because the office boy was regular one and amount withdrawn was negligible. At the request of the Manager and his personal relationship with the bank, Kamal didn’t pursue the matter with the RBI.

It was revealed that the office boy used to take out blank cheque leaves. Kamal never thought this faithful boy could do like this.

Anyway the boy was punished appropriately.

Moral : Be careful. सावधानी हटीं, दुर्घटना घटी

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Self Respect

 Self Respect

Madhusudan was the Head of the Purchase department of a Chemical Manufacturing Company. He had an indent of “Industrial Alcohol” from
the production department. He found a supplier in Mumbai through an advertisement in the business magazine “Chemical Weekly”.

“Hello, I am Madhusudan from Bombay Chemicals Ltd. Is it the right time to speak”, Madhusudan

“Please go ahead”, Om Prakash Gupta said from
other end

“We need one tanker of Industrial alcohol. Can you supply us? What is your price, payment, and delivery terms”, Madhusudan

“The consignment will come from Chennai. The supply time is 10 days, price is Rs 6 lacs. No credit, advance payment. Still to start with I can offer you a credit of 7 days. But do remember I shall not be able to meet you personally at your office”, Om Prakash

“Sir, what’s the problem. Just come to our office and have a cup of coffee with us”, Madhusudan

“thanks. but it’s not possible. Please send your person to my place with a P.O. or simply fax me P.O. I will arrange a supply for you”.

Madhusudan excitement grew. He had habit of developing new vendors and suppliers and win their confidence to ensure an uninterrupted supply of his cash-strapped company. So he decided to visit the supplier personally.

When entered his home, his wife took him straight to the bedroom of Om Prakash. He was lying in his bed cheerfully. Madhusudan was offered tea and biscuits. But still he was wondering, why the gentleman was not courteous enough to get up and sit properly on sofa. So he couldn’t resist and asked him diplomatically.

“I was really not interested to tell you about my story but now that you asked me, let me brief you. I was diagnosed with spinal tumour around six years back. I went to the USA for surgery which lasted for 12 hours or so. But post surgery I lost strength in both of my legs and has also lost sensation of urine and stool. So i had no choice but to lay down. Yet I have fighting spirit. I didn’t want to give any trouble to my family members. So I use wheel chair, go to wash room and perform daily routine. I also do business on the telephone. I want to make my remaining life meaningful”. OP said.

Madhusudan was speechless. He developed the utmost respect for this gentleman. He first arranged money for material before placing an order.

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MUMBAI

 Mumbai

Mumbai known as the Financial capital of India has many other qualities too:

1. Mumbai welcomes daily hundreds of job seekers from outside.

2. Mumbaikar will always be ready to help you if you need it.

3. Besides, Mumbai’s local train, the taxi, popularly known as “Kali Pili” is very favorable among locals. The taxi fare is very cheap and nobody ever overcharges.

4. Mumbai offers food of good quality to all sections of the society as suits to the budgets. You can have a full meal at a maximum of Rs 40.00 consisting of cut tea, Vada Pao and a Sandwich. This is when the cost of living especially housing is very high.

5. Despite having a huge population of around 1.75 crores, Mumbai works very hard to keep itself clean.

6. To address the tough traffic situation, Mumbai is striving to improve its infrastructure. Bandra Sea link, Atul Setu, Eastern Free way and new Coastal road are some of the examples of improvements.

7. Mumbai never stops. In almost all rainy seasons, Mumbai is flooded with rain. But Mumbai’s locals, BEST buses and offices functions as usual. No hue and cry even if train or bus stuck somewhere.

8. Mumbai boasts many monuments of historic significance. Elephanta Caves, Canary Caves, Haji Ali, CST train terminus, Taj Mahal Hotel and Gate Way of India are very famous amongst many.

9. Mumbai has some of the hidden gems but hardly any Mumbaikar knows like Flamingo Bird sanctuary.

10. The bungalows of Amitabh Bachhan at Juhu and Shahrukh khan at Bandstand are the most visited places by tourists and locals as well in this city.

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Vienna's Retail Market

 Vienna’s Retail Market: Sunday Story

I am passionate about traveling. I love exploring new cities, countries, cultures, architecture, business opportunities, and the unique bonds people share. This is the only hobby that keeps me motivated and feeling young. I have a deep passion for retail business. Wherever I go, I make sure to understand the local fashion, shopping patterns, business practices, ethical standards, and customer interactions. In the UK, Sweden, Austria, and now Hungary, I have been pleasantly surprised by the transparency of businesses, the willingness of clients to listen, openness to new ideas, and responsiveness. I wish the same for India. Let me take you on a tour of Vienna's market through my video. Stay connected.

London : A retail therapy

 London : Retail Therapy (Saturday Story)

London is a city synonymous with the luxury and fashion. It’s Mecca for rich and famous. One can find Indian businessmen and film celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Ritik Roshan, Vicky Koshal, SRK or Katrina kaif roaming around the bustling market of London. Modern retail in London, particularly around the important areas of Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Piccadilly Circus, represents a dynamic blend of historical charm and contemporary commerce. let’s explore some of the high streets. Oxford Street As one of the world’s most famous shopping streets, Oxford Street boasts over 300 shops, making it a retail paradise. Key brands here include: Selfridges: A historic department store that combines luxury and innovation. Zara: Known for its fast-fashion approach, offering the latest trends at accessible prices. Nike Town: A four-floor flagship store catering to sports enthusiasts with the latest in athletic gear. Primark: Popular for its budget-friendly fashion, drawing in a diverse crowd. Regent Street Regent Street offers a more refined shopping experience, with a focus on elegance and sophistication. Notable brands include: Liberty: A quintessentially British department store famous for its unique prints and luxury goods. Hamleys: The world’s oldest toy store, a magical destination for children and adults alike. Our own Reliance is proud owner of this prestigious store. Apple Store: Housed in an architectural marvel, it's a must-visit for tech aficionados. Burberry: This flagship store embodies British luxury fashion and heritage. Piccadilly Circus A cultural and commercial hub, Piccadilly Circus links shoppers to an array of high-end and high-street brands. Highlights include: Fortnum & Mason: A historic department store known for its luxury food, hampers, and teas. Lillywhites: A large sports retailer offering a wide range of athletic wear and equipment. The Criterion Theatre: While not a store, this historic venue adds to the area's vibrant atmosphere. Nearby Roads The surrounding streets offer additional gems, such as: Carnaby Street: Famous for its trendy boutiques and independent labels like Sweaty Betty and Paul Smith. Bond Street: Synonymous with luxury, hosting prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co.. Harrods: Established in 1834 by Charles Henry Harrod, is a luxury department store located in Knightsbridge, London. On my previous visit in 2006, I saw Reliance Kesar Mango also in this Mall. This is also known as the Museum of Fashion. For retailers and brands, maintaining a presence in these key areas is a testament to their status and appeal. And therefore, brands are ready to pay a monthly rental of Rs 6500 per sqft to Rs 9000 per sqft. Those of you eager to know more, simply come here, shop or no shop, just enjoy its ambience. I captured important landmarks in my video. #Retail#Fashion#Hamleys#London#High Street

Retail Business-Discount culture

 In retail, end-of-season and mid-season sales are standard for stock liquidation. But now, a new trend is emerging: retailers negotiating rent reductions with property owners on a regular basis.

Why Rent Renegotiations Are on the Rise: 1. High Real Estate Costs: Skyrocketing real estate prices in India make rents unaffordable. 2. Market Slumps: Economic downturns lead to reduced consumer spending. 3. Extraordinary Events: Disruptions like wars, agitations, earthquakes, and lockdowns impact business operations. 4. Flawed Business Models: Poor location choices can hurt a brand’s performance. 5. Stagnation: Retail thrives on innovation. Continuous improvement is crucial—think Apple’s innovative approach. 6. Unethical Practices: Compromised site selections due to unethical decisions harm long-term viability. This is the most overlooked by the management, though it’s very important. A single closure of the site costs crores. The Risks of Renegotiation 1. Reputation Damage: Signals weak business performance or unethical practices. 2. Difficulty Securing New Sites: A tarnished reputation makes it hard to find new properties. 3. Landlord Strain: Many landlords rely on rental income for their livelihood and loan repayments. 4. Legal Challenges: Forced rent reductions often lead to costly legal battles. Smart Strategies for Retailers: 1. Avoid Knee-Jerk Reactions: Be patient before approaching landlords for rent cuts. 2. Conduct Thorough Demographic Studies: Avoid market oversaturation by not clustering too many stores in one area. 3. Implement Checks and Balances: Prevent power misuse with audits and role changes. 4. Manage Expansion Carefully: Ensure proper site selection and cost management. 5. Share Information: Stay informed about market conditions, and take input from people engaged. 6. Be Selective: Target high-rent locations, avoiding those with already low rent. With 18 years in the industry, I've seen these scenarios play out. Strategic approaches are essential to navigate these challenges successfully. #RetailTrends #BusinessStrategy #MarketInsights #RealEstate #Leadership

Jodhpur city

 On the 12th of May, Jodhpur celebrates its founding anniversary.

Established in 1459 by Rao Jodha, leader of the Rathore clan of Rajputs, Jodhpur's origins are steeped in legend. It is said that Rao Jodha chose the site for his new capital following the advice of a hermit, who recommended a rocky hill for its strategic advantage against potential adversaries. Thus, Mehrangarh Fort was erected atop this hill, serving as the nucleus around which the city of Jodhpur flourished. Under the patronage of the Rathore dynasty, Jodhpur thrived as a pivotal trading hub along the ancient silk route linking Delhi to the ports of Gujarat. Umed Bhawan Palace, constructed by Maharaja Umed Singh in 1942, is renowned worldwide for its grandeur and beauty. No wonder Bollywood heartthrob Priyanka Chopra chose this venue for her marriage. Of course, Mukesh bhai celebrated Mrs. Neeta Ambani's birthday at this magnificent palace. Jodhpur is famed for its culinary heritage, boasting delicacies such as Dalbati, Churma, Gate ki Sabji, Mave Ki Kachori, Lassi, Chaturbhuj ke Gulab Jamun, Mirchi Bade, Pyaj ki Kachori, Rabdi ke Laddu, Rabdi ke Ghewar, Kopte, and Makhanwada. The city has nurtured a lineage of distinguished professionals, including lawyers, Chartered Accountants, doctors, management graduates, and educators. Notable figures like Shri Anand Rathi, Laxmi Mal Singhvi, Dalveer Bhandari (International Court of Justice), former Chief Justice of India R.M. Lodha, and CA Shyam Kumbhat are held in high regard, bringing honour to Jodhpur. Let's embark on a journey through the city via my video.

Festival of Holi

 Today, amidst the vibrant festivities, we come together to celebrate the joyous occasion of the Festival of Colors, Holi.

Holi, adorned with hues of every shade, symbolizes not just the splendor of color but also embodies the essence of happiness, love, and camaraderie. As we immerse ourselves in the kaleidoscope of vibrant pigments, we are reminded of the boundless joy that accompanies unity and togetherness. This auspicious festival coincides with the bountiful harvest season, a time when our hardworking farmers reap the fruits of their labor, bringing prosperity and abundance to our land. It is a time of rejoicing as the earth blooms with life, and we express our gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us. Moreover, Holi marks the transition from the chilly embrace of winter to the warmth of summer, heralding the arrival of a new season filled with promise and renewal. With open arms, we welcome the change in weather, embracing the opportunity for growth and transformation. On this joyous occasion, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all my beloved well-wishers, both old and new, as well as to my cherished friends, for a Holi filled with exuberance, laughter, and everlasting memories. May your lives be painted with the vibrant hues of joy and prosperity, now and always. Happy Holi!

Delhi's Vada Pao Girl

 Chandrika Gera Dixit, affectionately known as Delhi's Vada Pav girl, rose to prominence through viral videos documenting her entrepreneurial journey. Yet, amid her rising fame, she encounters challenges. A viral video circulating the internet depicts her and her mother embroiled in a heated altercation with a crowd on a bustling street in broad daylight. Such incidents shed light on the struggles she faces, compounded by disgruntled neighbors complaining of disturbances caused by her large customer base.

Moreover, she grapples with bureaucratic hurdles, notably clashes with MCD officials who demand the removal of her street cart, or "Thela," from the roadside. These confrontations underscore broader social issues prevalent in India, where a significant portion of the population, grappling with unemployment, resorts to informal roadside occupations to make ends meet. This predicament is multifaceted and warrants nuanced understanding. While street vending contributes to traffic congestion, littered streets, and compromises the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces, it also serves as a vital source of livelihood for many families, making them an integral part of the societal fabric. Mumbai stands as a testament to this duality. People from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of caste or financial status, indulge in the culinary delights offered by street vendors, from cutting chai to Vada Pav and dhoklas. Even I find joy in savoring these delicacies while navigating Mumbai's bustling streets. Chandigarh city has pioneered a unique solution that recognizes the need for a balanced approach. Street vendors in every market are granted licenses to operate from designated locations within the market premises upon payment of a nominal fee. This innovative approach not only empowers vendors to earn a livelihood with dignity but also ensures accessibility to affordable food for the common man, fostering a symbiotic relationship between vendors and the community.

Gratitude

 Gratitude is a virtue that holds immense importance in our lives. It is a theme very close to my heart

In the film “Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke,” there is a poignant scene where Juhi Chawla's character advises the children to express thanks and appreciate their "Mama" (Amir) whenever he brings gifts. Despite their high expectations, the children often failed to show gratitude. Conversely, they expected appreciation for the smallest things they did for their "Didi" (Juhi). The message is loud and clear: gratitude should be reciprocal and heartfelt. This notion is timeless and can be seen in ancient epics like the Mahabharata. Consider the story of Karna, who despite being wronged multiple times, remained loyal and grateful to Duryodhana. Karna's unwavering gratitude towards Duryodhana, who accepted him when others shunned him, exemplifies the depth and strength of true gratitude. Yesterday, a heartwarming incident reminded me of the significance of gratitude. A seven-year-old boy from our society approached me and said, "Thank you, uncle, for getting our swings repaired." Such a simple yet genuine expression of gratitude from a young child was incredibly touching. Similarly, last week, when we returned from Europe, we ordered a few provisions from Blinkit. The delivery was swift, and within minutes, the delivery boy rang our bell again to express his thanks for the online tip we had given him. What a pleasant gesture! These incidents make me reflect on how many of us in the corporate sector exhibit such beautiful traits. Often, we forget the good deeds someone has done for us once they step down, not realizing that ingratitude could come back to us. It's disheartening to see that many times we refuse to acknowledge the person or even take their call, let alone express gratitude. Arrogance and selfishness overshadow our ability to appreciate others. In the Mahabharata, another powerful example of gratitude is seen in the relationship between Krishna and Draupadi. When Draupadi was humiliated in the Kaurava court, it was Krishna who came to her aid, ensuring her dignity was protected. This act of divine intervention was a reciprocation of Draupadi's earlier gesture of tying a strip of her saree on Krishna’s bleeding finger. Krishna’s gratitude towards Draupadi's selfless act highlights the importance of acknowledging and repaying kindness. In families, too, uncles (Chacha-Mama) often play significant roles in the upbringing of children. However, how many of us remember their contributions when we achieve power or wealth? Expression of gratitude brings inner happiness and fosters positive relationships, whether it's towards your staff, servants, clients, vendors, or even nature. Remember the movie “Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.” where the protagonist, played by Sanjay Dutt, hugs the hospital cleaner and tells him he is the most important person because he helps in the quick recovery of patients. What a wonderful gesture!