Why was the sales low yesterday?

Since 1996 when the first Foodworld store opened, a regular query to the store staff would be, "Why was the sales down yesterday?"

Over the years, regardless of the format, I have heard some really interesting reasons for that question. And the fact of the matter is that, in most cases every last one of these have some element of truth. Some of the memorable ones are;

1. It started drizzling at 5.30 pm and so the customer walk ins were low (Coupled with reason 2 or 4, this becomes a bit of an oxymoron!!).
2. It was the India- Pakistan one day international sir. (Unsaid - Are u a moron to even ask?)
3. The latest Rajni film was on the cable! (Now, thats something one can't question when the city of Chennai itself appears deserted!)
4. It was the world cup finals sir! (The 'moron' comment running in the bakground again!)

Now, why this post.

With the start of IPL, especially planned to coincide with the prime time shopping, I definitely expect walk ins to drop in by as much as 25%. How will this affect the sales of Indian Corporate Retail, remains to be seen. Already there are announcements of promotions to leverage the overseas IPL. But, given the downturn, is not the IPL a great excuse to keep the family at home and save some money and yet have a great time!!!

However, the guys who would come out laughing all the way to the bank is the fast food guys as also the neighbourhood Kirana. After all, they do deliver at home when you run out of soft drinks or snacks.

Lastly... Go, Go, Chennai Super Kings!!!!