By Dr. Deepak Kumar Sahu,Editor-in-Chief-VARINDIA & Group Publications
Before looking ahead, a quick rewind is in order. In 2025, India quietly but decisively emerged as the growth beacon for global retailers. While many international markets grappled with inflation, demand fatigue, and geopolitical uncertainty, India stood out as a rare bright spot—particularly for premium fashion and beauty brands that continued to post strong growth.
From lipsticks and skincare to biscuits, shoes, and apparel, global brands deepened their commitment to Indian consumers. What stood out was not just rising discretionary spending, but a broader behavioural shift. Aspirational consumption in India increasingly reflected confidence, identity, and lifestyle choices rather than impulse indulgence. Shoppers were willing to pay more for perceived quality, global relevance, and personal expression, even amid macroeconomic headwinds elsewhere.
Urbanisation, a young demographic, rising disposable incomes, and digital-first discovery played a central role. E-commerce, quick commerce, and social media-driven influence accelerated brand adoption, while physical retail saw renewed interest through experiential stores and premium formats. India, once viewed primarily as a value-driven market, began asserting itself as a destination for premiumisation.
Consumer trends in 2025 offered further insight into this evolution. Pickleball gained traction as a social fitness sport, protein-focused diets reflected growing health awareness, and microdramas—short-form digital storytelling—captured attention in a time-starved content economy. These trends pointed to a consumer who values efficiency, wellness, and community.
Looking ahead to 2026, industry watchers expect the momentum to continue, with new cultural and lifestyle signals taking centre stage. Frisbee and other casual outdoor sports may gain popularity, concert culture is poised for a breakout as live experiences regain primacy, and “fibremaxing”—the conscious addition of fibre to daily meals—could define the next phase of health-led consumption.
Together, these shifts underline a larger truth: India is no longer just participating in global consumption trends—it is shaping them.
