The Retailer Winter edition_2020

“Efforts must really be directed at controlling the controllable as well as harnessing the power of positivity”

We can continue to focus on the ongoing tussle between online and physical retail (both have a place in my view, by the way), or the increasing costs and added pressure on margins. Or, we can choose to get ahead of tomorrow’s issues and trends and seek out a path that leads to the future. Growth will always be a tough nut to crack, but focussing our attention on the next chapter – or even writing it ourselves – is what we should all be aiming for. Just as consumers seek out the latest superfood, manufacturers need to redefine what that superfood is and retailers need to help us find and choose it. It’s time for the industry to look at all the strengths and expertise it has at its disposal, including: consumers with strong spending power; an enviable talent pool both within retail and from other industries; a world-leading tech sector, and a proud history being sure-footed enough to know what’s needed to succeed.

LINDA ELLETT // Linda.Ellett@kpmg.co.uk

the retailer | winter 2020 | 61