Retail

      Beginning in the 1980's the retailing system has been constantly changing because technological advances and the economic environment require that Switzerland change their structure of business. The current economy has created a decline in the amount of independent retailers that can afford to open a store. Many independent retailers are being forced to close because there business is going to discount stores, self service, and specialization in food stores. Currently the largest portion of the industry consists of department stores, chain stores, discount stores, supermarkets, and consumer cooperatives. A consumer cooperative is an establishment owned by the consumers and are directed in a democratic manner because it maintains satisfaction among members. Department stores along with the other retailers that create a broad market have an advantage with consumers because they are able to purchase more products in one area and most likely for a less expensive price than an independent retailer; there is a wide variety of products and services. Suppliers usually give discounts to stores that purchase an abundance of product at one time for their store.Small retailers have formed groups in order to provide wholesale options and other services to their clients in order to support their business and create as much competition as possible. The small retailers sell in product areas such as food, leather, sports, textiles, toys, and pharmaceuticals.
      Staying ahead of competitors is important in retailing and many try to stay ahead by updating how convenient shopping can be for the consumers. Switzerland retailers are beginning to see the importance of paying with credit cards to make shopping quick and easy.To continue to accommodate consumers retailers are allowing more shopping to be done from the home. Home shopping has been one of the largest expanding markets in the industry as of lately. In Switzerland there are over 5,700 members in the direct sales industry that have accumulated since 1995. The turnover for direct sales is at an all time high in a variety industries ranging from tupperware, lingerie, and cleaning supplies.People host parties at their home and invite people to buy products from their party. The people that host the party are able to make a profit and it is convenient for people to gather,eat and shop. Products can be tested at the scene of the party and people selling the products can give expert advice to their guests about what to buy.
      Department stores dominate the retail industry throughout Switzerland. The most popular stores shopped in the country are department stores.
Globus- This is a department store and there are 13 located in the country. It is owned by the largest retailer in the country called Migro
Jelmoli- One of the oldest and best known department stores. This company introduced the "no haggle" pricing system and a mail order catalog to Switzerland
Loeb- Department store
Marks and Spencer- British retailer. They specialize in clothing and luxury food
Manor- This is the biggest Swiss chain of stores in Switzerland. There are 65 stores and currently have 60% of the market share