Kakinada: The growth of online markets has greatly affected local traders, especially in rural areas. With smartphones becoming ubiquitous, even in rural areas, customers have started ordering items like ready-to-wear, sarees, dresses and other products online.
This growing trend has increased the difficulties faced by rural traders. They are struggling to compete with the variety offered by online shopping platforms. As a result, many local businesses are facing serious financial challenges. Some have even closed due to lack of customers.
Y Srinivas of Annavaram says, “The online delivery boys visit the rural areas 7-8 times a day. Earlier, shoppers used to visit shops in nearby mandal headquarters, towns or cities. But now they are using phones to view products, check the variety and prices, place their orders and get deliveries. This is causing a huge loss to local traders,’ he said.
Srinivas said some traders in Tuni town have closed their shops. But as the festival approaches, there is much hope. A shopkeeper in Annavaram sold clothes worth 1-2 lakh during the Christmas season. But he managed to trade only Rs 7,000 this Christmas. If the Sankranti festival does not bring the expected sales, he will close his outlet,” notes Srinivasa.
However, some traders are attracting customers by giving loans. It is said that due to this, they are able to continue their business.
VN Raju of Rajanagaram mandal said that he was working from home in his village. He is ordering groceries and clothes online as well as medicines for family members. Looking at him, many of his neighbors are also adopting the same practice.
The situation reflects broader economic pressures caused by e-commerce, which has disrupted traditional retail businesses, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Their customers are turning to online platforms for variety, and often lower prices. Despite their best efforts, they are unable to compete with the reach and flexibility of e-commerce.
If the current trend continues, many traders will be left with no option but to close down their operations.