Verdict Research: After years of slow growing demand and with last year's VAT rise behind it German retailing is entering a new phase. Despite economic storm clouds, the liberalisation of opening hours and expected reform of the pharmacy sector present new opportunities. Retailers are also adapting to the expansion of discounters by developing new pricing propositions and niche formats.

Scope

This report provides accurate insights into key trends, future developments and discusses the strategies of the main operators in the market. Proprietary data on market value, specialists sales and growth. 2002-2007 data for six different retail sectors and overall value data for Germany. Detailed sector analysis for grocery, DIY, electricals, furniture, clothing (including department stores) and out-of-town retailing is provided. Market shares for leading retailings in each sector and insightfuil analysis into their operating strategies.

Highlights

In five years time one in every two Euros in German grocery retailing will be taken by the discounters. Aldi and Lidl are trading from an inherently strong position in the country. With Edeka's might behind it, Plus will be invigorated and embark on an aggressive expansion policy. Rewe's Penny meanwhile needs to run just to stand still. The discounter boom has spread like wildfire from grocery to other sectors. In DIY Praktiker has embarked on a downsizing and price cutting exercise. In furniture discounting has reached endemic proportions, in clothing KIK and Takko produce industry beating growth rates and in general merchandise Tedi and Kodi are growing strongly. A direct result of extremely tough trading conditions is that the wheels of the consolidation bandwagon have begun to turn. The process was kick started by Metro's Wal-Mart acquisition in 2006. Looking ahead we expect more consolidation, especially in the highly fragmented furniture sector and the pharmacy market, which is set for liberalisation.

Reasons to Purchase

Understand strategic issues in the market, retailers' responses and our recommendations on how retailers must cope with the changing market. Learn about major German players including Edeka, Rewe, Metro, Aldi, Schwarz, Arcandor and Schlecker alongside information on specialist discounters. Discover how the market and retailers' future initiatives will develop. Find growth opportunities in specific sectors and identify the key threats.