The Changing Face of Retail: A Comparative Study of Malls and Bazaars in Indore
Authors: - Palak Bakshi , - Vibhuti Mittal 
Published: February 2025

In the vibrant cityscape of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, a comprehensive exploration unfolds, delving into the shifting contours of retail dynamics through a comparative lens. This research paper, titled "The Changing Face of Retail: A Comparative Study of Malls and Bazaars in Indore," embarks on a journey to dissect the multifaceted layers of economic, social, and psychological dimensions shaping consumer behavior, worker experiences, and societal interactions within the retail landscape.
Methodologically grounded in open-ended unstructured interviews with 80 individuals representing customers, shopkeepers, and mall staff across all age groups, this study sets the stage for a nuanced examination of the retail ecosystem in Indore. Through Table 1, we present a detailed overview of the participants, providing insights into the diverse perspectives that inform our analysis.
At the outset, the paper articulates its primary objective: to analyze and contrast the economic, social, and psychological aspects of malls and bazaars in Indore. This comparative endeavor seeks to elucidate the implications of retail formats on various stakeholders, from consumers to policymakers. Beyond this overarching goal, the research endeavors to assess affordability, consumption patterns, worker conditions, feminist and religious influences, migration patterns, and consumer preferences, among other dimensions, to offer a comprehensive understanding of the retail landscape.
The introduction paints a vivid portrait of Indore as a city poised at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, where the coexistence of sprawling modern complexes and bustling traditional bazaars reflects the dynamic nature of urban life. Through a meticulous selection process, the study focuses its comparative analysis on Phoenix Citadel Mall and Rajwada Bazaar, justified by their popularity, cultural significance, and unique characteristics.
A detailed exposition follows, demarcating the field of study and delineating the parameters of analysis for both entities. The Phoenix Citadel Mall, spanning over 1,000,000 square feet, offers a plethora of facilities aimed at enhancing the shopping experience, while Rajwada Bazaar, steeped in history and tradition, presents a vibrant tapestry of cultural richness.
Our study, "The Changing Face of Retail: A Comparative Study of Malls and Bazaars in Indore," offers a detailed comparison between Phoenix Citadel Mall and Rajwada Bazaar, analyzing three pivotal dimensions: Economic, Social, and Psychological. Beginning with the Economic dimension, we explore affordability, highlighting Rajwada Bazaar's provision of goods at accessible prices, contrasting with Phoenix Mall's focus on branded offerings for a more affluent clientele. Additionally, we delve into worker compensation, showcasing the disparity between fixed wages in malls and variable earnings in bazaars. Furthermore, our analysis of consulting reports reveals the enduring community-centric mindset in Indore, emphasizing loyalty to Rajwada despite evolving consumer trends.
Transitioning to the Social dimension, we uncover significant differences in women's experiences, with patriarchal constraints more explicit in Rajwada Bazaar. Conversely, religious observations reveal a common thread, with strong religious sentiments prevalent across both settings. Moreover, our examination of formal versus familial relationships, total quality management practices, worker alienation, migration patterns, ageism, and safety perceptions provides insights into the social fabric of malls and bazaars, highlighting contrasting perceptions and dynamics.
In our exploration of Psychological factors, we uncover the dichotomy between brand endorsement and local products, reflecting varying consumer preferences. Additionally, attitudes towards education and career pursuits differ, with mall workers viewing their jobs as temporary while bazaar workers perceive them as a final destination. Furthermore, our analysis of leisure versus shopping preferences and environmental psychology underscores the distinct attractions and attachment factors influencing individuals' choices of retail destination.