Deliver to: All IndiaBuy LeadsBecome a SupplierTradeCRM AILog inSign up freeHelp Centre

How to start a general store in India

A general store sells a wide mix of daily-use goods to a local area. Range, location and reliable stock decide how well it performs. Here is how to start one.

Choose location and mix

Pick a spot with footfall in a residential area, and plan a mix of groceries, household items, personal care and daily essentials. A range that matches local demand brings repeat footfall.

Set up suppliers

Build relationships with distributors and wholesalers across categories so you can restock fast at fair rates. Reliable supply of fast movers keeps customers coming back rather than switching stores.

Plan stock and cash

A general store spreads cash across many items, some slow-moving. Track what sells, keep fast movers stocked, and avoid over-ordering dead stock that ties up your working capital.

Bill and track cleanly

Use a billing app that handles many product lines, GST, and any udhaar you give to regular customers. Clean records of stock, sales and dues keep a general store profitable as it grows.

Sourcing on TradeCRM

Post your requirement free and get quotes from verified Indian suppliers. Run the whole deal, from enquiry to payment, with the free IndiaCRM app.

Post a requirement →
More guides
How to find verified suppliers in IndiaHow to verify a supplier before you place an orderHow to negotiate wholesale prices with suppliersUnderstanding MOQ (minimum order quantity)B2B payment terms explained (advance, credit, LC)
Post RequirementWhatsApp