The early years of India's hardware industry featured small, specialized brick-and-mortar shops catering to local customers. Each store focused on a specific product category, and customers often had to visit multiple locations to gather all the necessary items. The industry was driven by local demand, with a limited supply chain restricted to regional suppliers.

The economic liberalization of India in the 1990s introduced competition, leading to the emergence of one-stop hardware shops. These stores offered a wide range of products under one roof, making shopping more convenient. The market also opened up to international brands and suppliers, leading to increased product diversity and availability.

The rise of the internet and smartphones in India transformed the hardware industry, with e-commerce platforms enabling retailers to reach a broader customer base. Online marketplaces now offer a vast array of hardware products from around the world, providing customers with the convenience of shopping from home. This shift has also led to the popularization of smart living solutions, such as home automation and energy-efficient appliances.