There are many different types of retailers.
A multiple store is the most common type of retailer as many other types of retailers can also come under this category. It is a chain of stores which has ten or more branches. For example, Topshop or River Island are both multiple stores.
A department store is a large store which has different departments, selling four or more classes of consumer goods selling a wide range of merchandise such as menswear, women’s wear, home ware, accessories or children’s wear ect. A department store can also be a multiple store if it as a chain of stores. They often have concessions within each department selling merchandise from different brands. They are often located in busy shopping centres and also many department stores operate online as well.
A specialist store is a store which specialises in one particular type of product or service. It is like the opposite of a department store. A specialist store can also have a chain of stores making it a multiple store as well. Many of the chain specialist stores, such as Pandora or Sunglasses Hut also have an online store. An independent store is a stand-alone store, which has only one branch. Independent stores are often specialist retailers. Independent stores are usually located on local high streets.
An internet store is a retailer which online trades online, they do not have any physical stores. They post their products to the consumer and they can be national or international. This is becoming more and more popular as many people are choosing to shop online as it is easily accessible. An example of an internet store would be Boohoo or Pretty Little Thing.
A supermarket is a large store which sells food products. It may also have some non-food products such as clothing, home ware or electricals. Depending on the size of the store it may have a few different departments. It must have at least three checkouts and now they often have self-service checkouts. Also, there will usually be car parking facilities for these stores. There isn’t really a specific location choice for these retailer as they need a large amount of space for their stores.
A not-for-profit store is a store which does not earn profit for its owners. All of the profits made from the business goes towards the organisations objectives. Also, people volunteer to work in these stores, they aren’t paid to work there. These stores are usually charity stores such as the British Heart Foundation or Cancer Research UK.
A public place retailer is a store which is located in a public place such as a train station or an airport. A popular public place retailer is WH Smith, which sells things like books, magazines, food or drinks which are products people usually need when they are on the go.
types OF RETAILERS