IADS Exclusive - GenZ brands are putting department store models under pressure

Today, Gen Z favoured brands are highly addictive and successful due to their interesting offer, convenience, affordability, and seamlessness. But as these players focus in on finding a service that sets them apart, it makes it difficult for more traditional retail formats, like department stores, to stay relevant in the eyes of young shoppers. In fact, retailers can no longer only focus on an interesting offer, they must now offer perfect logistics, seem sustainable, and provide a unique experience. How should retailers respond to these incumbent brands as they change the DNA of the retail business? What exactly does it take to generate an interesting offer and experience for this next generation of shoppers?

IADS provides its members with a weekly in-depth analysis on retail-oriented topics. This is an example of the themes the Association regularly addresses, and the topic of an article from the IADS members-only newsletter date 2 February 2022.