RESEARCH INTO INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

[Monika]

A wide range of research has been undertaken into independent retailers. For example, researchers have examined why, while large retail chains threaten to replace the corner shop, the latter is increasingly popular among customers. The main reasons for shopping at a local shop are proximity, quality, expertise and good service. Other reasons why customers shop at independent retailers include the friendly atmosphere and social control.
Local shops that attract the most customers are the specialised shops that focus on a single product, such as florists, hairdressers, bakers and bicycle repair shops. In Holland, local hairdressers attract the greatest loyalty from their customers, followed by fishmongers and bicycle repairers.

How popular are independent retailers in your town?

In Holland the popularity of local shops is increasing, even though they are treatened by bigger store chains! Reasons for their popularity are the high quality products and the good service. A lot of people also think they have an important social function.