Supply Chain Management: Text and Cases, 2nd Edition

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Subhiksha: Managing Store Operations (B)*

In January 2009, Subhiksha, a chain of retail stores across India, announced that it would close down all of its stores by May 2009. What was startling to many, including its investors, was the rapid pace at which the retail chain was forced to shut down its operations.

Started by R. Subramanian, an IIM A and IIT Chennai alumnus, Subhiksha opened its first store at Chennai in 1997. It started out as a discount store offering products at prices which were much lower than other retail outlets. Gaining popularity over the years, Subhiksha expanded rapidly and became known as the company that had found the secret to organized retailing in India. By the year 2007, Subhiksha was a retail store chain, employing ...