Spencer's plans big in Kerala

Undeterred by protests at its first hypermart in Kozhikode

Undeterred by the opposition to the entry of big retail companies into Kerala, Spencer's Retail, a part of the Rs 13,500 crore RPG Group, has lined up major expansion plans in the state.

The retail firm, which launched its first hypermarket in Kerala in Kozhikode on Friday, has planned two more hypermarts and about 20 Spencer's Daily outlets in the state in the next three to four months.

The launch of Spencer's Hypermarket sparked off violent protests as traders, organised under the banner of Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi, marched to the Focus Mall where the hypermart is situated, then hurled stones and shouted slogans.

As news about the opening of the hypermarket spread, small traders swarmed the mall on Mavoor Road and raised slogans against Spencer's Retail.

As the protests turned violent, police erected barricades to prevent protesters from entering the complex. Eight people were taken into custody.

Speaking to Business Standard, Samar Sheikhawat, vice-president - marketing, Spencer's Retail, dismissed the protests as the outcome of misinformation and a misconceived agenda.

"We plan to go ahead with our plans. Kerala will see two more Spencer's Hypermarts soon. We are looking at properties in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram to set up our hypermarkets," he said.

"We will also open about 20 more Spencer's Daily outlets in different parts of the state in three or four months." Spencer's Retail has 17 food stores in Kerala.

Sheikhawat pointed out that the company will invest Rs 1,500 on every square foot of its retail space in Kerala, and that it planned to have at least 100,000 sq ft for its business in the state.

"The protesters have an ill-conceived agenda and it is unfortunate that they don't understand that local traders will never be affected by Spencer's ventures," he said.

"We have been a Kerala company, considering that Spencer's outlets have been in Kerala for 86 years. Moreover, the consumer is happy with the quality of products and services we offer."

Quality and pricing was on par with market rates, which meant that local traders need not worry about their businesses being dented, he said.

The hypermart will groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables as well as processed foods, personal care products, home appliances and home decor items. It will will also house a pharmacy, garments and toys, electrical and electronic goods.