A review of the latest trends and developments which are presently transforming the face of modern European retailing.

ACTION POINTS

Currently retailing is experiencing a period of unprecedented change and uncertainty. The key issues of globalization, technological developments and changes in consumers’ behaviours are impacting on all areas of retailing. This will undoubtedly impact on the logistics industry which needs to:

Understand changing retailer requirements in order to stay competitive

Develop products and systems to meet these changing needs

Develop business strategy to adapt to an increasingly globalized environment

ANALYST OPINION

The growth in divergent retail models is leading to a squeeze on retailers that are positioning themselves in the middle price and quality range, as other retailers who either seek to offer better prices or greater quality and choice increase market share. The global multiples that adopt a value positioning will continue to offer a broader range of goods at lower prices, using their scale to allow this low cost strategy to be maintained.

APPENDIX

Countries covered in this brief include:

France

Germany

Italy

Netherlands

Spain

Sweden

UK

USA

DATASETS

Figure 1: Retail and foodservice are increasingly competing for the share of the “Meal Solutions” market

Figure 2: Polarization trends in retailing

Figure 3: Theoretical development of the three main food, drink and personal care retailing market segments

Figure 4: France, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 5: Germany, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 6: Italy, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 7: The Netherlands, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 8: Spain, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 9: Sweden, key retail statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 10: UK, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999

Figure 11: US, key retailer statistics (% value sales), 1999