Industry Analysis & Industry Trends
Department stores were hit especially hard by the recession, as many shoppers began to watch their spending. However, the economic recovery promises to bring consumers back to department stores. Spending on discretionary goods sold by industry operators will improve alongside consumers' wallets. Nevertheless, operators will have to keep an eye on online-only retailers, which will likely leech customers away from traditional stores by offering similar products at lower prices... purchase to read more
Industry Report - Industry Investment Chapter
The capital intensity of this industry is low; for every dollar allocated to wages, about $0.10 unit is spent on capital assets. The size and number of stores in operation influence the level of capital expenditure. Expenditure on store utilities (e.g. lights and clothing racks) is estimated to have remained fairly stable in recent years, and occur when a new enterprise enters the industry or when existing stores are refurbished. Alternatively, expenditure on technological equipment (e.g. computerized cash registers) has experienced considerable growth over the past 15 years.
The duties employees undertake include customer service and advice, processing consumer purchases, arranging store layout and replenishing store shelves... purchase to read more