The Irish retail market has experienced solid growth between 2001 and 2006, posting a 61.9% uplift. Though the double digit growth rates that were normal during the mid-to-late 1990s have slowed, growth has continued to be strong due to major investment in the country's retail infrastructure. Alongside the fast fashion players, Ikea and the German hard discounters Aldi and Lidl, UK retailers stand out in the process of expansion into Ireland. Examples include Arcadia and TK Maxx in clothing, B&Q and Argos in the home markets, Debenhams and M&S in the department store arena and of course Tesco in grocery retailing. As a consequence of the repeal of the grocery order, the relaxation of out of town development regulations and the entry of foreign multiples we believe that many Irish independents are set to disappear. We expect the likes of Tesco, IKEA and Home Retail Group to aggressively grow their market share and build up a sustainable competitive advantage.

Scope

Understand strategic issues in the market, retailers' responses and our recommendations on how retailers must cope with the changing market. Benchmark the retail proposition and sales densities of major Irish players including Dunnes Stores, Superquinn, Tesco, Musgrave, M&S and DSGi. Learn how the market and retailers' store portfolio, retail proposition, strategies and future initiatives will develop.