Retail design in India: Finding inspiration at In-store Asia 2026

There’s a lot that fascinates me about the Indian retail market. One aspect is design. How do you create stores in a country of nearly one and a half billion people and more than 100 languages – a place that has evolved into a complex mosaic stretching from megacities to the Himalayas?

Hardly any other market is this dynamic: traditional store concepts don’t simply disappear – they evolve, becoming more emotional, more technology-driven, and more experience-oriented. It’s precisely this blend of local roots and modern ambition that makes India so exciting to me right now.

In our latest interview, Surender Gnanaolivu shares concise insights on the topic – firsthand and grounded in practical experience. As a curator and advisor to In-store Asia, among other roles, he has played a key part in shaping the development of retail design and visual merchandising in India.

Curious to experience these developments for yourself? Then don’t miss In-store Asia in Mumbai from May 21 – 23. Our partner trade show brings together the international players and ideas driving transformation in Indian retail.