By Jitendra Agrawal
Indian festivals are vibrant celebrations that present significant market opportunities and valuable consumer insights for competing brands. Over the years, we have observed a consistent rise in consumer demand during festive periods, particularly in September, October, and November. Although there was a temporary decline during the COVID years, the overall trend remains robust.
Today’s consumers, spanning various demographics, increasingly prefer high-quality, user-friendly, low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing, and energy-efficient products. Like many brands, we time our product launches for August and September to ensure optimal availability at points of sale.
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Evolving Lighting Preferences During Festivities
In the last decade, many consumers have either renovated their homes or moved into new ones in pre – Deepawali. Lighting has emerged as an effective way to refresh home aesthetics. As part of this trend, consumers are opting for energy-efficient LED products to replace traditional lighting. Those with false ceilings often choose modern light panels or COB downlighters, while rope and strip lights have become essential for accentuating specific areas of the home. Decorative color lamps and string lights, such as the popular Jagmag, are now commonly used to enhance balconies, prayer spaces, and other focal points during festivities.
Festive Trends in Consumer Durables
With the ongoing trend of home renovations and relocations, consumers are purchasing fans, water heaters, and other durable goods during festive seasons. For those not renovating, this period serves as an excellent opportunity to upgrade existing appliances. We are witnessing a notable shift towards aesthetically pleasing and energy-efficient products across all durable categories.
Trends in Semi-Urban and Rural Markets
Currently, the semi-urban and rural markets are where action is taking place. Rising disposable incomes and increased awareness, attributed to the widespread penetration of internet devices — have led consumers in these areas to aspire for products, which primarily were found in metropolitan markets. Retail points in these regions are increasingly displaying such products, facilitating easier consumer purchases and closer proximity of Distributors, ensures efficient stock replenishment.
Conclusion
What began as cultural festivities in India has evolved into an economic event for the lighting and consumer durables sectors. The growing demand for modern, energy-efficient products in all markets—including semi-urban and rural areas—encourages brands to invest continuously in consumer-centric innovation. We, like many reputable brands, strive to enhance the consumer buying experience by driving awareness through social media and effective point-of-sale merchandising.
About the author: Jitendra Agrawal, CEO of Surya Roshni Lighting and Consumer Durables Business
Disclaimer: Views expressed are personal and do not reflect the official position or policy of Financial Express Online. Reproducing this content without permission is prohibited.
From: financialexpress
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