Verdict Research: Following contraction and some high profile exits the UK department store sector has recovered strongly since 2005. UK Department Stores 2008 highlights the factors driving growth and profiles the leading operators as well as providing key performance and market data including market shares.

Scope

Market size and growth rates at current and constant prices for 1998-2008e, including and excluding M&S. Inflation and deflation trends in the market, product shares and space growth and performance measures. Market shares of all the leading operators over the past five years, plus key operating statistics, trading records and store portfolio analysis. Extensive profiles on Beales, Debenhams, Fenwick, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, House of Fraser, John Lewis, M&S, Selfridges and TJ Hughes.

Highlights

The £14.7bn department store sector enjoyed its second consecutive year of growth in 2007 following two years of decline. The resurgence of M&S in 2006 was a key factor in this revival, but in 2007 it was the premium/luxury retailers that were the main drivers of growth. The three largest premium operators have outperformed the rest of the market consistently over the past six years - indeed in 2007 they collectively produced growth of 11.3% compared with overall market growth of 3.5%. The addition of 1.9m sq ft of new department store space in 2008 will ensure further growth in the market, despite macroeconomic conditions.

Reasons to Purchase

Understand the key drivers, market dynamics and challenges for the department sector in 2008 and in proceeding years. Benchmark the performance of different operators across a range of key measures. Develop strategy using this authoritative, comprehensive and insightful analysis of the sector.