BRIEFING: Competing in the post-Wal-Mart world

Over the last 20 years, rapid growth - backed by innovative technologies - has allowed Wal-Mart to become the world’s largest retailer, with 5,700 stores and warehouses in a dozen different countries. Globally, the company revenues topped US$285bn in 2005 and generated more sales in one year than its next four competitors combined. Wal-Mart has redefined the way most apparel retailers and manufacturers have done business, particularly with regard to technology. Making operations more efficient with its 21,000 suppliers, the retailer raised the bar for the industry. This briefing helps to define post Wal-Mart retailing – how to compete, the good and bad competitors and self-preservation strategies for the smaller retail players.