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Sales and distribution strategies-Rural marketing

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Srinivas Lingamuthu
Sales and distribution strategies-Rural marketing

 

Rural India is growing exponentially and presents the huge untapped potential for Indian products and services. However, poor infrastructure, low connectivity, lack of proper channels are the reasons why many companies are unable to penetrate these markets properly.

 

How can companies overcome these hurdles and seize opportunities in these areas? The answer lies in having a robust sales and distribution model in place.

 

There are various sales and distribution models that the companies can implement. They are:


Leveraging existing sales and distribution network -

A lot of companies have a strong distribution network, because of which they are already present in most corners of the country. They only need to expand this network further to expand their reach and be present in the remote villages.


Hub and spoke model -

This model is comparatively an easier to manage model in which stocks are sent to one central 'hub' and then distributed to other parts (spokes) from there. It helps in dispatching goods in bulk to one area and hence reduces cost.


Feet on the street -

This model entails using the local talent to introduce the brand to the villagers and engage them with the company. This model helps in building brand equity and goodwill as well but requires micromanagement.

 

Each of these strategies has its pros and cons and no one strategy can be relevant or correct for all markets. Indian rural landscape is varied with each state having their own identity, traditions, and beliefs. Even the language changes every few kilometers. Hence, a blanket approach will not work across regions. How do you then break into a market as difficult as this?

 

The secret is to not rely on anyone's strategy but use a combination of various strategies depending on the culture and requirements of each market.

 

The author is CEO & Co-founder of 72 Networks


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