The retail sector is undergoing significant changes and facing challenges on various fronts. The COVID-19 pandemic caused logistical disruptions worldwide, the effects of which are still felt through material shortages and availability of (international) transport. The closure of ports and factories on the other side of the world also posed significant problems for Dutch retailers – and these challenges are still visible.
Meanwhile, retailers have to deal with unprecedented inflation and a tight labor market. Rising commodity prices, as well as energy and transportation costs, present both strategic and operational challenges for companies. Despite these challenges, retailers must continue to innovate and invest in their businesses. Customers are constantly seeking surprising and innovative experiences when purchasing a product, while also expecting that the product is produced sustainably and circularly. How can a company balance these Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) expectations with customers who demand complete control over the delivery process of their purchases?
In recent months, Supply Value has conducted research on the key challenges currently experienced within the retail sector, one of our core markets. The aim of this research is to draw attention to the problems and opportunities that retailers face and to provide companies with information and tools on how to best address them. Our consultants have extensively researched the challenges experienced in the sector and have validated them in practice through interviews with eight international retailers. These retailers operate in various fields, ranging from food to fashion and luxury. Some retailers focus on physical stores, while others operate solely online or through an omnichannel combination of channels. Thanks to these interviews, Supply Value has gained a good understanding of the challenges within the retail sector.
