Supplyco Achieves Record Onam Sales of ₹422 Crore

Doha, Qatar Aug 26, 2026 ALN: Thiruvananthapuram: Supplyco, the state-run retail chain in Kerala, has achieved record sales during the Onam season, surpassing ₹422.17 crore, a significant increase from ₹385.42 crore during the same period last year. This remarkable growth highlights the increasing reliance on Supplyco by consumers, particularly during festive seasons when demand for essential commodities typically surges.

The sales figures reported were recorded until 4 PM on Tuesday and encompass a 35-day period from July 22 to August 25. This timeframe is critical for the Onam festival, which is one of the most celebrated festivals in Kerala, marking the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. The festival is characterized by elaborate feasts, vibrant decorations, and a strong emphasis on community and family gatherings. Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Anoop Jacob announced that this year's sales figures represent a new milestone for Supplyco, reflecting the growing trust and dependence of the public on government-supported retail outlets.

In a more focused analysis, Supplyco recorded sales of ₹350.21 crore over a shorter 25-day period from August 1 to August 25 this year. This segment of sales is particularly noteworthy, as it indicates a robust demand for essential goods leading up to the festival. Within this timeframe, subsidised items accounted for ₹125.67 crore, while non-subsidised items contributed ₹224.67 crore. The distinction between these two categories is crucial, as it underscores the role of government subsidies in making essential commodities more affordable for the average consumer during festive periods.

Last year, during the same 35-day period, the sales figures for subsidised items stood at ₹180.03 crore, while non-subsidised items accounted for ₹205.11 crore. The increase in sales this year can be attributed to several factors, including a strategic decision by Supplyco to maintain stable prices for most subsidised items. Additionally, the retail chain has offered several essential commodities at lower rates compared to the previous Onam season, making them more accessible to the public.

Supplyco and its partner, Consumerfed outlets, have provided 13 subsidised items without any price increase, which has been a significant draw for consumers. Furthermore, the government has reduced the prices of essential commodities such as green gram, black gram, chickpeas, cowpeas, and tur dal, which are staples in many households, especially during festive times. Notably, the price of Sabari subsidised coconut oil was reduced by ₹20 per litre, from ₹249 to ₹229. This reduction is particularly impactful, as coconut oil alone accounted for approximately ₹100 crore in sales during last year's Onam season, indicating its popularity among consumers.

In a bid to further ease the purchasing process for consumers, the government allowed individuals to buy subsidised items for both August and September using their ration cards. This policy change reflects an understanding of consumer behavior during the festive season, where families often stock up on essential goods. Supplyco has also taken proactive measures to ensure that adequate stocks are maintained at its outlets, addressing the shortages of commodities that have been experienced in previous years, thereby enhancing consumer confidence in the availability of goods.

Among the subsidised products, pulses have recorded impressive sales of ₹43.83 crore, with coconut oil following closely at ₹51.64 crore. Other notable sales figures include various rice varieties, which generated ₹31.21 crore, and spices such as chilli and coriander, which brought in ₹14.14 crore. Sugar sales also reflected strong demand, totaling ₹8.36 crore. These figures not only highlight consumer preferences but also indicate the essential role that these products play in the traditional Onam feast, which often includes a wide array of dishes prepared with these staples.

As part of its efforts to enhance consumer engagement during the festive season, Supplyco has organized three mega trade fairs, 11 district fairs, and 126 assembly-level fairs. These events serve as a platform for consumers to explore a variety of products, often at discounted rates, while also fostering a sense of community and celebration around the Onam festival. The fairs have become an integral part of the Onam experience, drawing large crowds and contributing to the festive atmosphere.

In conclusion, the record sales achieved by Supplyco during this Onam season reflect not only the effectiveness of government policies aimed at supporting consumers but also the changing dynamics of retail in Kerala. As more people turn to state-run stores for their essential needs, particularly during festive periods, it underscores the importance of maintaining price stability and ensuring the availability of goods. The implications of these trends could have lasting effects on consumer behavior, retail strategies, and government policies in the region as they adapt to meet the needs of the population in the future.