The retail industry and associated business models have gone through a
significant phase of disruption. The rapid emergence of new
technologies, digital business models and the evolution of social media
platforms as a new sales channel continue to influence the sector. Key
contextual or external trends will affect and shape the retail landscape
in the years to come. Therefore, it seems important to prepare for this
situation and be ready with a head start in terms of knowledge.
This textbook provides its readers basic knowledge about the national
and international retail sector and gives important insights into trends
and developments. It deals with key trends, in particular new patterns
of personal consumption, evolving geopolitical dynamics, technological
advancements and structural industry shifts. Moreover, it explains why
it is so important that retailers use these trends, adapt their retail
strategies and tactics, create strong brands and come up with
innovative, new ways of doing business.
Today we are living in a challenging time for retail. This textbook
tries to give insights and explanations to better understand these
challenges and provide managerial implications.