Department Stores: Major Trends Transforming the Retail Landscape

In the increasingly competitive world of retail, department stores are struggling. This case study takes a close look at the major trends which have transformed the landscape in which department stores operate, how this has ultimately led to their downfall and whether they will be able to bounce back in the future.

Scope

#NAME?

Reasons to buy

#NAME?

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Overview 2

Catalyst 2

Summary 2

The dynamics of physical retail have changed, many have failed to adapt 5

A struggling high street has inevitably led to store closures 5

Online retail has become tough competition 6

Failure to bring online features into brick and mortar stores 7

Lack of appeal and in-store experience 7

Inability to keep up with fast fashion 8

Years of poor financial management 9

Some stores have adapted to trends and are performing well 11

High end department stores insulated from issues 11

Brands need a clear identity to stand out and attract customers 12

Strategic partnerships can be lucrative 13

Department stores can survive the online /digital era 15

Technology entering stores is the future of immersive shopping 15

Focus on developing aspects that online retailers can’t offer 15

Localization of stores 16

Conclusions 17

Department stores won’t go extinct, but only the most innovative will survive 17

Appendix 18

Sources 18

Further Reading 18

Ask the analyst 19

About MarketLine 19

Disclaimer 19

List of Figures

List of Figures

Figure 1: US store closures 5

Figure 2: United Kingdom online retail sector value: $ million, 201317 6

Figure 3: Debenhams new minibar feature will showcase travel-size items 8

Figure 4: Debenhams supply chain lead time is approximately 7 months 9

Figure 5: Sears Holdings Corporation revenue ($bn) 2005 to 2017 10

Figure 6: Global luxury goods market value: $ billion, 201317 11

Figure 7: Mid-priced retailers are being squeezed 12

Figure 8: Selfridges is known for its vision and creativity 13

Figure 9: Amazon smart home experienced in Kohl’s 14

Figure 10: The future of immersive shopping 15

Figure 11: Curated makers pop-up in Manchester 16

    Pricing

Discounts available for multiple purchases.

reportstore@marketline.com
+44 20 7947 2960

Saved reports