Retail change in China: retrospect and prospects

Abstract

The transformation of retailing in China is described, with reference to past developments (Retrospect) and emerging trends (Prospects). Retail practice is considered by looking at supply-side structural changes and changing patterns of consumer demand. Convergence towards international norms is evident, but so too are signs of distinctiveness and even divergence. Retail research agenda are considered in light of changes in practice, including calls for more systematic, analytical approaches to provide rigorous and informed views of developments in China, and more in-depth interpretative studies to capture contextual nuances. The article concludes with observations about the future of retailing within China and across China's wider sphere of influence.