Review of Flea Market in India and Evidence from Bhubaneswar

Abstract

Euphemistically it is said that ‘Imitation is the highest form of compliment’. However, imitation has larger ramifications than a compliment. The local imitator gets value out of the duplication. Thus it helps in the local economy and employment; at times, there is a value addition to the product. However, the original manufacturer loses market share, profits and intellectual property due to the product. The duplication is also considered a crime of different degrees depending on the laws. The market for copycat products thrives on local demand and at times indicated to be cultural! The market has its dynamics and supply chain for such products. India has several such markets for different product categories in different regions, and such markets are known as flea markets. This research presents the evidence of such copycat products, a lesser-known market of Bhubaneswar, which does not have a known flea market, unlike other regions of India. However, the gradual development of such a market cannot be ruled out, unless legal measures are taken up, and continual monitoring is done by law enforcement agencies.