Enabling small retailers and kirana stores with accessible funding to meet evolving business needs
Bengaluru, April 08, 2025: Poonawalla Fincorp Limited (PFL), a Cyrus Poonawalla Group promoted NBFC, focused on Consumer & MSME Lending, has today announced the launch of its Shopkeeper Loan Business. The solution addresses key financial challenges faced by small retailers and kirana stores, including cash flow, inventory, and customer management, while enhancing their operational efficiencies.
Building on its vision to become the preferred financier for the self-employed segment, PFL aims to enhance the competitiveness of small retail businesses through its customized financial solutions.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Arvind Kapil, Managing Director & CEO of Poonawalla Fincorp, said: “India’s small retailers are the backbone of our consumer economy, yet their growth is often constrained by limited access to timely credit. With our Shopkeeper Loan, we are taking a decisive step to bridge this gap — offering tailored financial solutions that address their working capital needs and support long-term business resilience. By combining our risk-first and customer-centric approach, we aim to empower these businesses to thrive in an increasingly competitive retail environment.”
Small retailers and kirana stores form an integral part of India’s traditional domestic trade, contributing significantly to local economies across semi-urban and smaller towns. However, they have historically relied on family funding. PFL believes there is a great and attractive opportunity to bring them into formal credit.
The company aims to provide tailored financial solutions to small retailers and kirana stores across India. In the first phase, PFL is operationalizing 44 locations and institutionalizing its systems for a customer-centric approach. With the launch of the Shopkeeper Loan Business, PFL has now launched 4 new businesses.
By providing targeted financial solutions through its risk-first approach, PFL aims to enhance the competitiveness, sustainability, and long-term growth prospects of India’s critical small-business retail ecosystem. The company continues to focus on simplifying lending, creating customer delight, and enhancing experiences, which remain its top priorities.
