MAM
“Retailers need to align with their customers’ values” – Grauer & Weil’s Santush Pandde
Mumbai: Imagine walking into a store that knows your preferences better than you do, one that prioritises eco-friendly packaging and proudly displays its local community partnerships. This isn’t the future—it’s now. Consumer behavior has undergone a seismic shift, demanding that retailers rethink their strategies to stay relevant in a competitive landscape.
Indiantelevision.com Sreeyom Sil sat down with Grauer & Weil (India) Limited (Growel’s 101 Mall), COO of real estate, Santush Pandde to explore how retailers can navigate this transformation and thrive in an era defined by digital dominance, sustainability, and personalised experiences.
What are the major factors driving changes in consumer behavior today?
The pandemic has accelerated trends already underway. Consumers today are more informed, socially conscious, and environmentally aware. They expect transparency, ethical practices, and meaningful engagement from brands. Sustainability is now a priority, not an option. Digital transformation has also changed how consumers shop—they seek personalised, seamless experiences across channels.
How should retailers respond to this shift in consumer priorities?
Retailers must go beyond merely offering products. They need to align with their customers’ values and focus on long-term relationship-building. Personalised shopping experiences, omnichannel engagement, and sustainability must form the pillars of their strategy. By doing so, they foster loyalty and remain competitive.
Can you elaborate on the role of digital tools in modern retail strategies?
Digital engagement is a cornerstone of retail success. Techniques like live-stream shopping and influencer partnerships are not just trends; they are essential for creating emotional connections with consumers. Interactive campaigns, like sustainability-themed challenges or eco-friendly reward programs, resonate deeply. These efforts not only drive sales but also demonstrate a brand’s commitment to shared values.
Why is sustainability so crucial for retail brands today?
Consumers are no longer passive shoppers; they actively seek brands that align with their values. Sustainable practices—such as reducing waste, using eco-friendly materials, and ethical sourcing—are non-negotiable. Transparency in these efforts builds trust. Retailers embracing sustainability don’t just attract environmentally conscious customers; they ensure long-term loyalty and distinguish themselves from competitors.
How can community engagement enhance a retailer’s brand image?
Community engagement humanises a brand. The “shop local” movement has gained momentum, making it vital for retailers to actively participate in their communities. Hosting local events, collaborating with nearby businesses, or supporting neighborhood initiatives can deepen consumer trust. Social media amplifies these efforts, allowing retailers to showcase their authentic commitment to their communities.
How can retailers balance digital and in-store experiences?
While digital tools are essential, physical stores remain important for categories like fashion and luxury. Omnichannel strategies—such as “click and collect” or in-store kiosks for online browsing—bridge the gap between the two worlds. Retailers must focus on creating seamless transitions, offering the convenience of digital with the tactile engagement of in-store experiences.
What practical steps should retailers take to future-proof their marketing mix?
Retailers need to reassess their approach constantly. Highlighting the distinct advantages of both online and offline shopping is key. For example, digital tools can provide convenience, while physical stores can offer curated, immersive experiences. The goal is to create a hybrid model that appeals to a broad customer base.
What is the ultimate takeaway for retailers aiming to adapt to this new era?
The retail landscape is evolving rapidly. Brands that prioritise sustainability, embrace digital tools, and invest in community connections will stay ahead. The ability to adapt, remain agile, and understand consumer values is critical. In the end, it’s about creating personalised, meaningful experiences that balance digital innovation with traditional engagement.
By aligning with shifting consumer mindsets, retailers not only ensure their relevance but also foster enduring loyalty. The road ahead may be complex, but the destination—deeper connections and greater success—is well worth the effort.
Brands
FSS names Anand Krishnamurthi head of global digital delivery
Tech veteran to drive AI-first, cloud-led transformation in payments globally
CHENNAI: Financial Software and Systems (FSS), an AI-first payment infrastructure company, has appointed Anand Krishnamurthi as head of global digital delivery.
In his new role, Anand Krishnamurthi will lead FSS’s global digital delivery capabilities, focusing on AI-first and cloud-led transformation while ensuring predictable, high-quality outcomes for customers worldwide. He will be based in Chennai and report to V. Balasubramanian, CEO of FSS.
Bringing 28 years of experience in technology and digital transformation across banking, capital markets, financial services, and insurance, Anand has held senior leadership positions at Cognizant and NuSummit. He is recognised for scaling multi-geography delivery teams, leading mission-critical platforms, and embedding AI-driven automation in complex, regulated environments.
“What drew me to FSS is its deep payments expertise, strong product DNA, and the scale at which its platforms power real-world financial ecosystems,” said Anand Krishnamurthi. “I aim to strengthen delivery predictability, execution rigor, and engineering quality, building empowered teams that deliver measurable customer outcomes. FSS has a unique opportunity to create real-time, AI-infused payments infrastructure that is resilient, secure, and globally scalable.”
V. Balasubramanian added, “Anand’s track record in leading multi-geography delivery programs and AI-first operating models makes him the ideal leader for FSS as we accelerate our AI-driven digital payments business. His leadership will help us raise the bar for outcomes globally.”
This appointment is part of FSS’s broader push to build an AI-powered, cloud-native delivery organisation capable of meeting the evolving needs of banks, fintechs, and financial institutions worldwide.
