What trends and topics are currently dominating the retail industry?
jörg Becker: For a long time, a well-defined profile was important. Companies positioned themselves either as a discounter or a specialist offering advice, with prices to match. However, they are gradually realizing that positioning themselves between these extremes can also be an attractive option. In other words, “hybrid” retail companies are emerging that offer both advice and good prices. One example is home improvement stores that offer professional services for certain products: If customers buy plants, they can also hire landscape gardeners to redesign their gardens. We can observe this development – offering services alongside products – in industries besides retail. There, it’s known as performance contracting. Another example is when a company simply rents out retail space to vendors. Overall, the world of retail is becoming more colorful. SAP INFO: Are large retailers joining up with smaller ones to form business networks, as we are seeing in other industries? Becker: Yes, t
