Harsh Mariwala’s personal visit to general store sets an ideal example of diving into real market; also defines his earthiness

Despite his age and substantial wealth, Billionaire Harsh Mariwala’s regular visits to supermarkets and general stores highlight his hands-on approach to understanding consumer trends firsthand

Recently, Harsh Mariwala visited Shivraj Super Market in Parel, Mumbai, sharing his experience on social media, where he emphasized the importance of these visits in gaining insights into consumer preferences and emerging trends. Mariwala, the founder of Marico, a prominent consumer goods company known for brands like Saffola and Parachute, believes that direct interaction with retailers and distributors provides invaluable insights into market dynamics. His approach contrasts with relying solely on data analytics or market reports, underscoring the significance of personal engagement in business strategy. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mariwala wrote, “One thing I like to do is regularly visit stores and meet with the retailers and distributors. It gives me a clear insight into the consumer mind and the emerging trends.” His visit to Shivraj Super Market garnered significant attention, with the post quickly accumulating over 22,000 views and prompting various responses.

Users praised Mariwala’s commitment to personal interaction, calling it “priceless” and highlighting its unique value in understanding customer needs. Some shared their strategies, blending AI-driven analysis with direct customer engagement. Others emphasized the irreplaceable nature of face-to-face interaction to understand product quality, packaging, and service requirements. The interaction also showcased Mariwala’s responsiveness to consumer concerns. When a user raised issues about changes in Saffola oil composition and expressed dissatisfaction with the response from his office, Mariwala assured us of swift action. He promised that someone from the Consumer Services Call team would address the complaint directly, demonstrating his dedication to maintaining customer satisfaction and handling issues proactively. In summary, Harsh Mariwala’s approach exemplifies a blend of entrepreneurial foresight and customer-centricity, leveraging personal visits to stay attuned to market nuances and drive business growth. His engagement with stakeholders underscores his leadership style and reinforces the importance of direct consumer interaction in shaping successful business strategies.