Retail: Introduction
Segments
Direct Selling
Companies in this segment sell a wide variety of products, primarily door-to-door or through other person-to-person contact.
Franchisers
Franchisers grant franchises to interested companies in the retail industry. These companies sell a wide variety of products, but are held to the standards and regulations set by the particular franchiser.
Retailers
Companies in this segment sell a variety of products to consumers including apparel, hardware, household goods, and office supplies, primarily in-store or online.
The Retail industry is Fragmented. The production in this industry is divided among a few different companies, however, no single firm has large enough share of the market to be able to influence the industry's direction or price levels.
Primary Demand Drivers
- Personal income
- Consumer confidence
- Interest rates
Profitability Drivers
- Efficient supply chain management
- Effective merchandising and marketing
From the Blog 
Both consumers and industry analysts have taken notice of the recent announcements made by Chinese fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu, saying they will be raising their prices due to new U.S. tariffs. Beginning on April 25, 2025, these retailers will adjust their product pricing due to the U.S. government’s decision to remove the “de minimis” exemption, which formerly allowed duty-free importation of products under $800.
Social media platforms have evolved far beyond their original purpose of connecting people; they have transformed into major shopping hubs. This shift has significantly impacted global markets, especially in countries like the U.K. and Indonesia, where consumers have fully embraced the seamless integration of shopping into their social media experiences.
Sources
- SelectUSA (Date Accessed: 6/1/2017)