Published by Gbaf News
Posted on February 24, 2017
Last updated: January 13, 2026
The top 250 global retailers generated aggregated revenues of US$4.31 trillion in fiscal year 2015, representing composite growth of 5.2 percent, according to the Global Powers of Retailing 2017: The art and science of customers report from Deloitte Global.
“Slow economic growth in major developed economies, high levels of debt in emerging countries, deflation or low inflation in rich countries and a protectionist backlash against globalization were among dynamics which contributed to a challenging economic environment for retailers,” explained Dr. Ira Kalish, Deloitte Global Chief Economist. “And yet people still need to shop, so the industry carries on. In some places and with some cohorts of shoppers, the outlook for retailers is favorable.”
“The Middle East remains an attractive destination for retailers, with 3 retailers ranking in Deloitte’s report of the 250 largest retailers around the world: Emke Group/Lulu Group International, Majid Al Futtaim Holding LLC and Savola Group. Together, the Africa/Middle East region’s 19.1 percent growth rate and 5.8 percent net profit margin were the highest among the five geographic regions in FY2015,” explains Herve Ballantyne, partner and Consumer & Industrial Products Industry leader, Deloitte, Middle East.
Global Powers of Retailing Top 250
For the third year in a row, revenue growth for the Top 250 apparel and accessories retailers outperformed other product sectors. Historically, this category of retailers has also been the most profitable, and fiscal year 2015 was no exception. However, retailers of fast-moving consumer goods¹ (FMCG) are, by far, the largest companies (average retail revenue of nearly US$21.6 billion) as well as the most numerous (133 retailers accounting for just over half of all Top 250 companies and two-thirds of Top 250 revenue).
The level of retail globalization appears to be at the same level as the previous year. Two-thirds of Top 250 retailers operated outside their home country borders and on average, they had retail operations in more than 10 countries and derived nearly one-quarter of their composite retail revenue from foreign operations.
The art and science of customers
Global Powers of Retailing 2017 also discusses the art and science of customer engagement to help retailers design fresh experiences, enabled by the right technology, and strengthen customer loyalty. What was once considered futuristic is now table stakes. Retail innovators know technology is no longer supplemental to the shopping experience, it is fundamental. Technology alone, however, is not enough. Customers are seeking new and surprising products and experiences.
The five trends identified in the report are:
To view the whole report go to: http://bit.ly/2kP0oET
The top 250 global retailers generated aggregated revenues of US$4.31 trillion in fiscal year 2015, representing composite growth of 5.2 percent, according to the Global Powers of Retailing 2017: The art and science of customers report from Deloitte Global.
“Slow economic growth in major developed economies, high levels of debt in emerging countries, deflation or low inflation in rich countries and a protectionist backlash against globalization were among dynamics which contributed to a challenging economic environment for retailers,” explained Dr. Ira Kalish, Deloitte Global Chief Economist. “And yet people still need to shop, so the industry carries on. In some places and with some cohorts of shoppers, the outlook for retailers is favorable.”
“The Middle East remains an attractive destination for retailers, with 3 retailers ranking in Deloitte’s report of the 250 largest retailers around the world: Emke Group/Lulu Group International, Majid Al Futtaim Holding LLC and Savola Group. Together, the Africa/Middle East region’s 19.1 percent growth rate and 5.8 percent net profit margin were the highest among the five geographic regions in FY2015,” explains Herve Ballantyne, partner and Consumer & Industrial Products Industry leader, Deloitte, Middle East.
Global Powers of Retailing Top 250
For the third year in a row, revenue growth for the Top 250 apparel and accessories retailers outperformed other product sectors. Historically, this category of retailers has also been the most profitable, and fiscal year 2015 was no exception. However, retailers of fast-moving consumer goods¹ (FMCG) are, by far, the largest companies (average retail revenue of nearly US$21.6 billion) as well as the most numerous (133 retailers accounting for just over half of all Top 250 companies and two-thirds of Top 250 revenue).
The level of retail globalization appears to be at the same level as the previous year. Two-thirds of Top 250 retailers operated outside their home country borders and on average, they had retail operations in more than 10 countries and derived nearly one-quarter of their composite retail revenue from foreign operations.
The art and science of customers
Global Powers of Retailing 2017 also discusses the art and science of customer engagement to help retailers design fresh experiences, enabled by the right technology, and strengthen customer loyalty. What was once considered futuristic is now table stakes. Retail innovators know technology is no longer supplemental to the shopping experience, it is fundamental. Technology alone, however, is not enough. Customers are seeking new and surprising products and experiences.
The five trends identified in the report are:
To view the whole report go to: http://bit.ly/2kP0oET
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