Integrating traditional and modern elements presents significant challenges, yet when successful, the synergy can be immense. Onboarding Indian Kirana shops—small, unorganized mom-and-pop stores—into a comprehensive digital infrastructure is crucial given the current retail landscape and evolving consumer demands. These shops are vital to the country’s food and grocery ecosystem but face disruption from the rise of e-commerce and organized retail. By adapting new business models and technologies, Kirana shops can enhance their competitiveness. This study highlights the critical role of digitalization and data-driven decision-making in small scale retail formats. Researchers collected primary data from Kirana shops doing online procurement and those relying on traditional methods like purchasing from distributors. Analysis of primary data shows that shops utilizing online procurement platforms demonstrate superior performance, attributed to factors like competitive pricing and timely delivery. Most importantly, the insights and analytics provided by eB2B platforms are game changers. Data emerges as the key differentiator; digitalization enables access to critical analytics, allowing for informed business decisions that improve success rates and provide a competitive edge. Consequently, this study propose an ideal ‘digital end-to-end model’ designed to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth for unorganized Kirana shops.