Planet Retail 20 Mar 2008

According to reports in the Indian press, Pantaloon Retail is planning to expand in the rural markets. The group might foray into the rural market either independently or in partnership, following an earlier announcement that Pantaloon is planning to pick up a 70% stake in Godrej Group's rural initiative Aadhaar [1]. The group is also eying ITC Group owing to its considerable presence in the rural market through its e-choupal [2] initiative providing support system to the farmers. Pantaloon is also aiming at appointing a ceo for the rural retailing business. "There is recognition of the rural market's potential. But Biyani (managing director) is keen that the rural retailing formats should not be perceived as intimidating and that they are sensitive to the requirements of the rural consumer," said a Future Group official.

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