Synopsis: Gen Z in India is rapidly becoming one of the most powerful consumer groups, changing fashion, convenience, travel, and premium lifestyle spending. India’s Gen Z has transitioned from “asset accumulation” (gold/real estate) to “identity and experience portfolios”.
India’s Gen Z economy is being shaped by four structural shifts: the rise of quick commerce, affordable aspirational fashion, experience-led travel and hospitality, and premiumisation, with consumers increasingly preferring quality over quantity.
These behavioural shifts, not demographics alone, are creating long-term opportunities for companies with strong brands, scalable business models and pricing power, positioning them to benefit as India’s young consumers continue increasing discretionary spending.
1. Eternal
The most significant shift among Gen Z is not what they buy, but how they buy. Convenience has become the product itself. Through Blinkit, Eternal is capitalising on this behaviour by delivering groceries, electronics and daily essentials within minutes.
Eternal is monetising convenience, not products. Every forgotten grocery item, last-minute charger or snack order creates another transaction. As quick commerce scales rapidly, Blinkit has emerged as the company’s primary growth engine and a key long-term value driver.
Revenue increased to Rs 54,364 crore in FY26 from Rs 20,243 crore in FY25, driven by Blinkit’s rapid expansion and steady food delivery growth. Revenue has compounded at 94 percent CAGR over five years, while profit has grown at 22 percent CAGR, reflecting strong long-term business momentum.
2. Trent
Trent has transformed India’s affordable fashion market through Zudio, offering trendy apparel at accessible prices. Its private-label strategy gives better control over design, pricing and inventory, helping improve profitability while responding quickly to changing fashion trends.
For many young consumers, fashion is no longer just a necessity but a form of self-expression. Trent monetises identity, not clothes. Frequent product refreshes and affordable pricing encourage repeat purchases, creating a scalable, high-frequency retail business.
Revenue increased from Rs 17,135 crore in FY25 to Rs 20,074 crore in FY26, driven by rapid Zudio expansion and steady Westside growth. Net profit rose from Rs 1,534 crore to Rs 1,721 crore. Revenue and profit have grown at 51 percent and 69 percent CAGR, respectively, over the last five years.
3. Radico Khaitan
Radico Khaitan is benefiting from India’s premiumisation trend, with younger consumers increasingly choosing quality over quantity. The company has built a strong portfolio of premium spirits, including Rampur Single Malt, Jaisalmer Gin and Magic Moments Vodka.
Rather than chasing volumes, Radico is focusing on expanding its Prestige & Above portfolio, which delivers higher margins and stronger profitability. The company is monetising aspirational consumption by offering premium brands that reflect changing lifestyle preferences.
Revenue increased from Rs 4,843 crore in FY25 to Rs 6,050 crore in FY26, while net profit rose from Rs 346 crore to Rs 604 crore. Revenue and profit have grown at 21 percent and 17 percent CAGR, respectively, over the last five years.
4. Indian Hotels Company
Indian Hotels is benefiting from India’s shift towards experience-led spending, with younger consumers increasingly prioritising travel, staycations and celebrations over material possessions. Its diversified portfolio caters to luxury, premium and lean-luxe hospitality across multiple customer segments.
Through brands like Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, Ginger and Qmin, the company is monetising India’s growing experience economy. Its asset-light expansion strategy and strong brand portfolio position it well to capture rising demand across business and leisure travel.
Revenue increased from Rs 8,335 crore in FY25 to Rs 9,689 crore in FY26, while net profit rose from Rs 2,038 crore to Rs 2,247 crore. Revenue and profit have grown at 44 percent and 32 percent CAGR, respectively, over the last five years.
This theme focuses on companies that benefit from long-term behavioural shifts. As India’s consumption patterns evolve, businesses aligned with convenience, premiumisation, fashion and experiences could deliver sustainable earnings growth and long-term shareholder value.
Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts/broking houses/rating agencies on tradebrains.in are their own, and not that of the website or its management. Investing in equities poses a risk of financial losses. Investors must therefore exercise due caution while investing or trading in stocks. Trade Brains Technologies Private Limited or the author are not liable for any losses caused as a result of the decision based on this article. Please consult your investment advisor before investing.
