EUROPE 

European retailers continue to focus their energy on developing ways to address new consumer priorities, by adapting off and online store formats to the new shopping behavior. Brick-and-mortars have been revamping their selling space to guarantee a safe shopping experience by trialing new formats like the “one-person shop” launched recently by a retailer in the Netherlands, which addresses the need for both safety and proximity. Also, new partnerships are being forged in the retail arena, and last mile intermediaries have become key partners in catering to the self-isolated consumer. However, to remain relevant, retailers have been stepping-up their digital strategies by integrating digital into the in-store environment, and creating omnichannel buying experiences. This digitalization at retail has also accelerated the rise of virtual services, as well as direct-to-consumer and social commerce models, boosted by live streaming and group video call apps. Moving forward, retailers can leverage their Private Brands to curate and tailor these emerging formats, delivering differentiated and personalized shopping experiences. 

SOUTH AFRICA 

COVID-19 lockdowns forced retailers, especially those operating in brick-and-mortar, to shift their operations to remain relevant. Around the globe, solutions like e-commerce and click-and-collect were soon fast-tracked to ensure the availability of products to customers. However, in developing markets, businesses were forced to be more nimble in adjusting their store formats and ways of operating. Since lockdowns made it challenging for some customers, especially those in rural areas, to travel to stores, some retailers brought the store to the shopper. Pop-up retail stores have been emerging rapidly, giving customers quick and easy access to essential food items, such as shelf-stable pantry items and fresh fruit and vegetables, and primarily leading with Private Brand solutions.  By creating pop-up stores, retailers can prioritize their Private Brand offering in these assortments, to encourage even greater shopper connectivity with their Private Brands.  

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