The Growth of Mall Culture and the Crisis of Local Entrepreneurship; A Study with Special Reference to Nagaon District

Abstract

The retail sector in India has witnessed significant transformation with the advent of modern malls, affecting local traders and small businesses. This study examines the impact of the growing mall culture on local entrepreneurship in Nagaon District, Assam, between 2018 and 2021. With a sample size of 150 traders from an indefinite population engaged in various businesses, the research explores how changing consumer behavior, competition, and urban commercial shifts challenge traditional business models. Using descriptive statistics, charts, and diagrams, the study identifies key threats to local entrepreneurship and suggests possible adaptive strategies. The findings reveal a trend of declining profitability, customer attrition, and adaptation stress among local traders, underscoring the need for policy support and business model innovation.