What is IADS

Founded in 1928, the International Association of Department Stores (IADS) is the only expert body specializing in the department store retail format in the world. Consisting of leading department store members located around the globe, the Association acts as an international network, facilitating exchange and communication between IADS members, and conducts research to address current challenges department stores are facing to provide actionable insights for its members.

The Association gathers leading department stores around the world, all key players in their respective markets, and represents more than €27.6bn cumulated annual turnover, achieved through more than 380 stores with 147,000 associates in 21 countries. These retail leaders are joined by a network of other department store and retail companies as corresponding members.

Through its own activities and partnerships with NellyRodi, The Style Pulse, Retail Hub and RH-ISAC, the Association constantly stays up to date on its members’ questions and challenges and generates solution-driven problem-solving processes for its members so that they are prepared to face the future of the retail industry.