D2C brands are bracing for a tough quarter as rising input costs and a weakening rupee squeeze margins while demand softens. Analysts expect consumer spending to fall 5–6% over the next three months, driven by inflation that pushes shoppers toward essentials and cuts discretionary buys. Costs have already jumped across categories, including a 25–30% spike in beverage and perfume packaging materials. Conglomerates can hike prices, but smaller cash-burning brands face working capital stress and lower average order values.
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