‘Indian retail is always talked about as the next big opportunity. In reality, it continues to be an intriguing and challenging Ali Baba’s cave due to its diversity of customers and products. Gibson’s book is a primer on the DNA of Indian retail, which explains the opportunities and challenges along with success stories of operational excellence. A must-read for all retailers and students to unravel the secret sauce of success, while achieving customer centricity, co-existence and profitability.’ (Govind Shrikhande, Customer Care Associate and Former Managing Director, Shoppers’ Stop Ltd) ‘In the context of India, whenever there is reference to retailing, it is common to equate it to modern trade. However, having practised it for several decades, I can say that the core of Indian retailing still remains largely undiscovered. How can small enterprises survive for so many years? My dear friend Gibson has Advance Praise touched the nerve that will be torchlight to seekers of the truth of Indian retailing. Interesting!’ (K. Radhakrishnan, Co-founder, Tata Starquik.com) ‘This book is a power-packed capsule on retail. It captures the science of modern retailing as practised by big successful retailers in India and across the world and blends them with the unique practices of the small mom and pop retailers that have made them successful. It weaves both these strands into a comprehensive guide to retailing that is full of examples, heart-warming stories and practical ways to implement. Gibson has demystified modern retail for the family retailers and for the large retailers, he has brought out the practices of the family retailers which build unparalleled stickiness and resilience. In doing so, it also makes for a fascinating and lovely read for a consumer and a practitioner.’ (Neelesh Hundekari, Partner (Asia Pacific)–Consumer and Retail Practice, A.T. Kearney Ltd, UK (India branch office)) ‘The right book at the right time—when Indian retail is at its crossroads.’ (Hemu Ramaiah, Former CEO and Founder, Landmark Book Stores; Managing Director, Shop4solutions Pvt. Ltd) ‘If an attitude of positivity and genuine friendliness is shown by every shopkeeper, they can get closer to their customers and win them forever. Gibson’s book gives useful pointers to run the retail business in India profitably—whether big or small, or traditional or modern! It’s an interesting and resourceful read, page after page, with case examples and illustrations. I’m sure every reader would be delighted to go through each winning experience in the world of retailing presented in the book!’ (Rajeev Gopalakrishnan, President–South Asia, Bata Emerging Markets) ‘The awareness levels of most leading brands are very high. So, mass media channels no more play a significant role in brand purchase decisions. The focus now shifts to the retail outlet— the point-of-purchase. The more you understand the retail environment, the better you will succeed in building strong brands. Gibson’s book beacons it all!’ (Biju Dominic, CEO and Co-founder, FinalMile Consulting (Behaviour Architects)) ‘Dr Gibson is an extremely experienced retail professional, who is also endowed with the gift of extraordinary writing and teaching skills, which enable him to share his knowledge with others. The 10 success factors will help small retail businesses survive and thrive the disruption that will unfold during the next decade.’ (Krish Iyer, President and CEO, Walmart India) ‘This book is a great read filled with valuable detailed information hand-picked from Indian retail for Indian retail. The curated selection of real-life learning from the best of great traditional and modern retailers adds authenticity to the different concepts explained by Gibson in the journey of the book. Interesting anecdotes from his life experiences add delightful “beyond detail” nostalgia to the descriptions and add a very important ingredient in retail—the emotional touch. The book gives very useful and hands-on tips derived from intuitive traditional shopkeeping interpreted in the context of today’s competitive, connected world of retail in India. A superb read and a valuable ready reckoner for efficient and effective retailing!’ (Surender Gnanaolivu, Senior Consultant–Retail Experience)