Scenario

Retail is an often misunderstood industry. Reports focused the proliferation of e-commerce and mobile spending, as if they’re about to cause the “death” of retail, are ignoring the fact that these are simply new channels that forward-focused retailers are leveraging to bring goods and services to end consumers. Retail, by this definition, continues to be a critical source of global growth and remains one of the most vibrant sectors in the economy. The most successful retailers continuously implement new innovations and keep their eye on what matters to their customers in order to engage in more meaningful ways. A growing number of consumers are now choosing to spend their dollars with retailers who are taking positive steps to be responsible community members. Progressive retailers recognize the significance of this shift in customer expectations, with spending on sustainable initiatives by Retail and Consumer Products organizations expected to grow to over $10 billion by 2017