Mixed Retailers in Slovakia

TRENDS

2016 saw a marginal decline in the numbers of mixed retailers outlets as well as marginally positive current value growth. Mixed retailers is losing out due to the competition that the channel faces from other, more progressive retail channels. The remaining department stores operated by Tesco Stores SR are located in premises which were department stores during Czechoslovakia’s Communist era and the company has taken few steps to develop them any further. It is, however, possible that Tesco might restructure its overall business in Slovakia in order to maximise profitability and the sale of its department stores would certainly be one option. Furthermore, historically, variety stores have not gained widespread popularity in Slovakia as consumers have failed to identify which product types variety stores are most useful for. The one exception to this is the channel’s leader Tchibo Slovensko, which benefits from massive advertising campaigns and consistent outlet expansion.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Tesco Stores SR led mixed retailers in 2016 with a 30% value share. The company has been the historical leader in the channel as it is the only company operating department stores in Slovakia. For the company, this channel is only a marginal part of its operations in the country and it is possible that Tesco may leave the channel completely over the forecast period. The company recorded marginal growth in its value share in the channel in 2016.

PROSPECTS

During the forecast period, mixed retailers is expected to develop mainly through the increasing importance of variety stores. There is a possibility that international variety stores chains will enter Slovakia. The future of department stores as a channel is expected to remain under question and it is indeed possible that Tesco Stores will sell its remaining outlets and that they will be transformed into discount outlet malls, for instance. Another round of economic downturn and any further turbulence in the Slovakian labour market may bring higher popularity to variety stores.

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