ABSTRACT

Retail stores are where the consumer buys products and services. It may be a physical location or an online store. Some retailers emphasize a physical presence and others an online presence; however, most major retailers are blending the two means of selling. Both types of retailers need distribution centers (DCs) to deliver goods to the stores or to consumers for online purchases. Good inventory management is essential, to have the right product at the right place at the right time. One of the major problems for retailers is forecasting demand to avoid stockouts or leftover inventory at the end of the selling season. As you read this company profile and the chapter in the book, think about these questions:

• Why is store location important for a retailer? How do you decide where to locate? • How large should a store be? What should its layout look like? • Where do you locate DCs? Does the decision differ for online stores? • Should a retailer buy from foreign suppliers? What are the advantages or

disadvantages?