HUL’s CEO, Rohit Jawa, revealed that the average Indian consumer is allocating more than half of their time to digital media, showcasing the growing influence of e-commerce and digital platforms. In response, HUL has appointed its first chief digital officer and announced a strategic split in its beauty and personal care business to prioritize digital initiatives, effective from April 1. The company is actively digitizing its “route to market,” with 40% of orders generated through Shikhar, its B2B app for retailers.

Revolutionizing Kirana Stores with the Shikhar App

Empowering Retailers Digitally

Hindustan Unilever’s Shikhar app is transforming India’s consumer goods market by enabling direct communication between small-scale Kirana stores and HUL sellers. This digital platform streamlines order placement, stock management, and prompt deliveries, enhancing operational efficiency and overall profitability for retailers.

Efficient Features Tailored for Retailers

The Shikhar app offers more than order placement, providing insights into HUL’s product portfolio, trade promotions, and regional sales data. With over a million stores onboard, the app caters to both digitally hesitant and tech-savvy retailers, offering features like voice search and credit tracking. Its adaptability makes it an indispensable tool for streamlining operations and providing a personalized experience.

Financial Inclusion and Future Growth

Beyond digital transformation, Shikhar addresses a significant challenge for retailers—credit access. Through partnerships with banks and microfinance providers, HUL facilitates easy credit for Kirana stores, promoting financial inclusion. As technology evolves, the app continues to adapt, promising even more interactive features. Celebrating one million retailers onboard, the app’s potential for growth remains immense, poised to catalyze further digital adoption in India’s evolving retail landscape.

Tags: Hindustan Unilever, Shikhar app, Kirana stores, Digital Transformation, Retail Innovation, Financial Inclusion, Consumer Goods, India, E-commerce, Small-scale Retailers.