Business growth

Cracking the Code of Loyalty

Smart Solutions for Smarter Growth

In today’s highly competitive edible oil market, retailers are no longer loyal by default. With dozens of options and aggressive pricing tactics by new entrants, even long-term retailers can switch overnight.

But what if you could flip the narrative?

At Ajanta Soya, we believe that loyalty is not luck—it’s strategy. 

Here are 6 proven techniques every distributor can implement to retain retailers and grow repeat orders, backed by examples to help you get started.

First Understand: Why Retailers Keep Switching

  • They leave for minor rate differences.
  • You lose money and time onboarding new retailers.
  • The market is crowded with new distributors every month.
  • Retailers want value, transparency, and convenience—not just a cheaper price.

6 Loyalty-Building Techniques

1. Loyalty Programs That Build Habits

What to do: Offer tiered rewards based on monthly order volume.

Example: Start a monthly reward program:

  • 500L/month = 1% cashback
  • 1000L/month = 2% cashback + free delivery
  • 2000L/month = Ajanta branded banners or store display.

2. Stay One Step Ahead: Talk to Retailers Before They Stop Ordering

What to do: Track ordering habits and intervene before retailers go inactive.

Example: If a retailer usually orders every 10 days but hasn’t ordered in 15 days, alert your sales rep to make a personal call or visit.

Why it works: A timely nudge shows you care and often revives the relationship before it’s lost.

3. Real-Time Rate Sharing via WhatsApp

What to do: Send daily price updates at the same time each morning (e.g., 9 AM).

Example: 📢 16 May Prices: Soybean Oil 1L – ₹200 | Combo Offer: Order 100L+ and get 1% extra!”

Why it works: It builds transparency and reduces negotiation calls. Retailers trust suppliers who are open and consistent.

4. Make Ordering Easy with New Online Tools

What to do: Let retailers place orders directly via WhatsApp using tools like Zotok AI.

Example:  Retailer sends: “Need 10 cartons Soybean 1L + 5 cartons Mustard 500ml. Deliver by Friday.”
Auto-generated confirmation is sent back instantly.

Why it works: It saves time, avoids errors, and fits into how retailers already communicate.

5. Co-Branded Marketing Support

What to do: Provide free branding and sales & business tools to help retailers’ business.

Example:  Distribute Ajanta free recipe e-books, coupons, posters, etc.. 

Why it works: Retailers feel supported and are more likely to prioritize your brand.

6. WhatsApp Marketing With Real Value

What to do: Share helpful content, not just promotions.

Example:  Send 1-minute videos or tips like:

  • “Why Kachi Ghani Mustard is perfect for heart health”
  • “How to pitch Combo Packs during the festive season”

Why it works: You help the retailer become more knowledgeable and confident in selling your products.

Loyalty Comes from Value, Not Just Price

Retailers won’t stay because you’re ₹1 cheaper. They stay when you:

  • Help them grow
  • Make their work easier
  • Communicate transparently
  • Offer consistent value

By using these 6 techniques, you go from being just another supplier to being a Trusted Growth Partner.