RETAIL OUTLOOK 2024: WHAT GLOBAL EXECUTIVES ARE SAYING

Introducing the publication of the 2nd edition of our Global Executive Research Whitepaper.

Our latest global publication together with WRC, World Retail Congress, presents the challenges and opportunities for the retail sector in 2024 as seen by retail executives around the world. This 2nd edition, co-published by our international alliance Ebeltoft Group and the World Retail Congress, was published to coincide with the Congress held in Paris at the end of May on the theme of “Becoming a world-class retailer”.

The publication delves into a number of topical issues, including the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), the state of the workforce, sustainability and omni-channel, among others. The findings reflect the current views of more than 100 retail executives from the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

Key findings from this year's report:

• Widespread optimism regarding the 5-year business outlook, but mixed feelings regarding Retail's immediate environment in 2024.
• Retail faces persistent labor challenges, both in stores and in head offices, making it one of the top challenges for managers in 2024.
• Implementing AI, both in front-office, customer-facing and back-office processes, is a top priority for retailers. However, talent shortages, time constraints and investment limitations present significant barriers.
• Retail executives continue to prioritize sustainability and recognize the potential for improvement through the implementation of circularity efforts and collaboration with ESG-compliant organizations.

Physical stores are seen as a priority in terms of commercial relevance to the business. While online stores and Marketplaces, are ranked by executives, second and third in terms of relevance.

About Ebeltoft Group and Q&A:

Ebeltoft Group is a global alliance of international consulting firms, experts in Retail and Brands, of which KISS Retail is the partner for Spain. Q&A Insights and Consultancy is our Dutch partner leading the annual Ebeltoft Group x WRC publication.

About World Retail Congress

Since 2007, World Retail Congress has been the leading platform for in-depth research, content and events, driving retail growth and inspiring valuable global connections.