Synopses & Reviews
Over the last 20 years, retailing has become one of the most dynamic industry sectors and the supermarket chains in particular have become the focus of regular headline news. The history of retailing, though, goes back much further. In a fascinating account of this phenomenal growth, The Grocers reveals the stories behind the impressive development of today's international household supermarket names. It shows how their individual and intertwined histories are full of unique characters, surprising incidents and unpredictable twists of fortune. With unrivalled access to the top decision-makers in all the leading companies, the authors describe and analyse the strategies, organization and cultures that have made the supermarkets what they are today: Tesco, Sainsbury's, Safeway, Marks & Spencer, Asda/Wal-Mart As well as the industry giants, the authors cover the 'second tier' chains in Britain, including Waitrose, Morrison and Somerfield, and the European main players, such as Carrefour, Ahold and Aldi. In this fully updated second edition Andrew Seth and Geoffrey Randall examine the role of the supermarkets in society against the background of the Competition Commission report. This edition includes new coverage on Wal-Mart's decisive move into the UK market and analysis of the effect and future of e-tailing. Now an international business, supermarket retailing has evolved as a consumer market in its own right. The Grocers provides everyone interested in modern retailing with definitive insights and will hold unparalleled interest for retailers themselves, their suppliers and manufacturers.
Review
"The Grocers is a terrific story compelling told; the growth of world retailers well portrayed. Written with authority by two consummate business professionals, the analysis of brands and retailing rang a whole lot bells." -- Niall Fitzgerald, Chairman, Unilever plc, London
Synopsis
Over the last 20 years, retailing has become one of the most dynamic industry sectors and the supermarket chains in particular have become the focus of regular headline news. The history of retailing, though, goes back much further.
About the Author
Andrew Seth is a marketing practitioner and Board Chairman of the Added Value agency. He is also an expert commentator on the supermarket industry. Seth is a graduate of the Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program. Along with Geoffrey Randall, he is the author of The Grocers (now in its 3rd edition) and Supermarket Wars (2005).