Inc42 Opens Applications for FAST42 2027 D2C Brand Rankings

Inc42 has opened applications for its sixth annual FAST42 initiative, which identifies and ranks India’s 42 fastest-growing direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands. The program aims to highlight businesses based on verified revenue growth rather than marketing visibility or funding rounds.

2022 to 2026

Since 2022, Inc42 has tracked emerging consumer businesses through this ranking system. Past cohorts have included brands such as Pilgrim, The Sleep Company, Snitch, and Perfora. According to the organization, the 2026 cohort featured 42 brands that collectively generated ₹2,154 crore in annual revenue and employed more than 6,700 individuals.

FY24 to FY26

The 2027 edition will evaluate applicants based on their revenue growth between the 2024 and 2026 fiscal years. This process is intended to filter for substantive commercial performance amid an increasingly crowded retail landscape. Participating brands must demonstrate growth across channels, including quick commerce and offline retail, to qualify for the final list.

February 2027

The initiative, presented by Inc42 and Shadowfax with co-presentation by PhonePe Payment Gateway, will conclude with the announcement of the 42 selected brands. The ranking process is designed to highlight firms succeeding despite rising customer acquisition costs and complex distribution economics.

Market Expansion Outlook

The D2C sector in India is projected to expand significantly, with gross merchandise value expected to rise from $65 billion in 2026 to $310 billion by 2031. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate of approximately 37%.

Why it matters: As the Indian D2C market prepares for a projected five-year compound annual growth rate of 37%, this ranking serves as a benchmark for investors and stakeholders. For emerging markets globally, including those in the Middle East and Egypt, the FAST42 methodology illustrates how verified revenue data can clarify market trends in digital-first retail environments facing similar challenges with customer acquisition and distribution.