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.
