The internationalisation of retailing has drawn considerable attention in recent years. Nevertheless, little has been written about the impact of such strategies on physical distribution. The distribution strategies of some of the leading international retailers are focused on and how the...

In this fiercely competitive local retailing environment filled with countless identical retail offerings, the use of good customer service can help retailers gain competitive edge over the others. Customer service is often overlooked as a strategic tool when compared to the other retail...

Despite recent debates in the literature surrounding the notion of absolute saturation in European food retailing, it is clear that concerns over saturation provide a partial explanation for the search for new markets overseas. For two European retailers, Ahold and Sainsbury, the USA has...

Discusses Wal‐Mart’s entry into Europe. Explains the factors that have contributed to the success of the company, for example an efficient logistics system, extensive internal communications, and a capacity for innovation and reinvention. Outlines Wal‐Mart’s strategy for expanding into...

Based on observations made during a field visit to Poland in July/August 1990, the current changes taking place in the Polish retail scene are explored, both by sector and in terms of the marketing mix. The major issues facing potential entrants – domestic, as well as foreign – into the...

This study investigates the relationship between accuracy of brand‐country of origin (COO) knowledge and COO image, in a franchising context. Accuracy of brand‐COO knowledge is found to be positively related to COO image. Inaccurate brand‐COO knowledge leads to a confusing and somewhat...

Purpose – The paper plans to explore the global environment and its implications for new product developers. Design/methodology/approach – The case was written after in‐depth interviews with company managers. Findings – The paper provides information and action approaches to new product...

Purpose – This paper seeks to explore the relationship between global brands and the emotional connections between consumers and the brand. Design/methodology/approach – The paper integrates concepts including a range of recently published (1995‐2006) theoretical works in the branding,...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine how cultural differences affect the perception of a brand. Design/methodology/approach – A study was carried out in six countries among different involvement groups. The study uses Hofstede's cultural dimensions and Aaker's brand personality...

Purpose – This paper aims to understand the motivations for product innovation and brand leadership using a series of case studies focusing on firms with leading market positions of different types. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative study is presented of three leading food sector...