UK-based cash and carry operator Booker plans to be on par with retailing giants like Walmart, Metro and Carrefour with 20 more stores planned for India.

Having opened its first shop in Mumbai in 2009, Booker has been a low-profile in India with only three stores all located in Maharashtra state (Mumbai, Pune and Thane).

“We are actively campaigning within the local area where our cash and carry stores are located. The marketing activity is designed to target our customer segment, the traders. The end-consumer is not our target hence (our) low profile,” said MD Zunaid Bangee.

According to Bangee, Booker has already looking into opportunities outside Maharashtra state for its countrywide expansion.

“We are presently reviewing opportunities in and around the state of Maharashtra. In due course, we intend to expand to other states. But in the next five years, we could open up to 20 stores,” said Bangee.

While retail giants including Walmart and Metro has already entrenched the cash and carry segment in the country, Booker is confident that there is enough space for it in the huge market of India.

Booker wants a share of India’s cash and carry market worth Rs 7 lakh crore (US$140 billion) annually.

“The business here has the potential to contribute significantly to the group’s turnover,” said Bangee.

In its home country, Booker – which carries labels Happy Shopper, Tuck Shop, Mason & Miller, Farm Fresh, Red Band and Booker Basics – has 172 cash and carry stores.

GB