India’s Experience Economy Set to Outpace Goods Spending by 2030

India’s shopping habits are on the brink of a makeover. A fresh research report, released this week, says that by the turn of the next decade Indian families will be pouring more of their spare cash into experiences—think trips, meals out, concerts and even virtual adventures—than into the stuff they bring home.

Right now, roughly 38 % of discretionary spending goes toward experiences. The forecast nudges that figure up to just over half—about 52 %—by 2030. In plain terms, the money you’d normally spend on a new gadget or a piece of furniture is set to flow more often into a weekend getaway or a dinner at a trendy restaurant.

Why the change? A confluence of factors, really. First, India’s middle class is expanding at break‑neck speed, and with it comes a larger pocket‑book. Second, the younger generations—Gen Z and Millennials—are less attached to owning things and more hungry for stories and memories. The pandemic, oddly enough, accelerated that shift, as lockdowns forced people to value the moments they could still enjoy.

Digital platforms are also doing the heavy lifting. From ride‑hailing apps that double as tour guides to food‑delivery services offering curated tasting menus, technology is turning everyday transactions into mini‑experiences. That convenience makes it easier for consumers to spend on the intangible.

What does this mean for businesses? Companies that have traditionally leaned on product sales need to rethink their playbooks. Hospitality chains are already bundling stays with local cultural tours; retailers are sprinkling pop‑up events into stores; and brands across sectors are courting customers with immersive marketing—think AR try‑ons and live‑streamed events.

It’s not that goods will disappear. Essentials and durable items will still command a solid chunk of the budget. But the growth trajectory for experiences is steeper, and that’s where new opportunities lie. Investors, marketers and policymakers would do well to keep an eye on the travel, dining, entertainment and even gaming sectors, all of which stand to benefit from the looming shift.

In short, the next few years could see India’s economy leaning more toward the ‘experience’ side of the ledger. If you’re a business owner, it might be time to ask yourself: are you selling something people can feel, taste or remember, or are you still stuck on the shelf?