"Quote...unquote"

This week’s choice quotes from the retail technology world…

“We will certainly move the court against the CCI’s (Walmart Flipkart acquisition) decision. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called an emergency meeting of its governing council on 19th August at Nagpur, where we will finalise our strategy for a nationwide movement.” Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT’s Secretary General

“There is no doubt that Amazon Prime Day keeps gaining in popularity with huge global awareness, and multiplying participation every year. Shoppers are spending more at Prime Day but they are getting smarter, they are becoming increasingly price aware, and more willing to see what else is available elsewhere online.

It is a huge opportunity to Amazon, but other retailers should take heed that with the right sales initiatives and understanding of their customers, they can keep them loyal and coming back for more.” Channie Mize, Senior Vice President and Global Sector General Manager, Retail, Periscope By McKinsey

“Ikea’s foray into India will impact the market share of branded players. The Indian home market is highly fragmented with the top five players accounting for just 2% market share. In addition, its strategy to build a strong offline presence and build a brand image among customers where they can see and feel products associated with the brand and use e-commerce as a supplement channel – will also provide new experience to the consumers. As a result, branded players will have to offer differentiated products and services.” Sumit Chopra, Director of Consumer and Retail Research, GlobalData

"Business rates are arcane. We need to find a different way to tax business activity, one that doesn't fall so heavily on a business like traditional retail, that uses a lot of space. The present system creates an imbalanced playing field. Non-retail businesses don't pay that tax because they don't have stores - internet business is obvious example. When an Amazon delivery comes to your home in that cardboard box, which we all think is a bit excessive, then that box goes in the bin, or to the tip.

The process is paid for by business rates - by the retailer who lost that sale, and was out-competed by Amazon, and who paid the tax for the services that Amazon used for free. It is unfair. And the tax system should never be part of the competitive advantage for a business. They should compete on a level basis - that is all the High Street is asking for." Justin King, former Chief Executive of Sainsbury's