News
Global Retail Outlook 2024
Navigating challenges and embracing opportunities - Insights from retail leaders around the world
Despite economic clouds, retailers see sunshine. Technology like artificial intelligence (AI) is fuelling optimism for growth in 2024, even amidst inflation, labour shortages, and global tensions.
A year of opportunity amidst challenges
The Eurozone has seen a sharp decline in inflation in the past year. Yet despite this, the European Central Bank (ECB) appears intent on retaining a tight monetary policy characterized by high short term interest rates. In 2024, it is likely that the Eurozone will experience modest growth. With real wages rising, consumer spending is likely to grow modestly. The region suffers from a range of factors that are stifling growth. These include the impact of gas prices that remain well above the pre-Russia-Ukraine war level, tight fiscal policies, and weak credit market conditions due to monetary tightening.
While the shadow of past disruptions may linger, a surprising wave of optimism is sweeping the retail industry as we enter 2024. This sentiment, despite ongoing economic uncertainties, stems from a newfound belief in the transformative power of technology, particularly the emergence of generative AI. Retailers envision AI streamlining operations, boosting productivity, and creating more captivating customer experiences – all contributing to both financial growth and lasting success.
However, it's not all sunshine and roses. Inflation remains a pressing concern, squeezing profit margins and demanding strategic pricing adjustments. Labour shortages and supply chain disruptions continue to test adaptability, requiring innovative solutions to maintain smooth operations. These challenges are compounded by geopolitical tensions, adding further complexities to the global retail landscape.
Despite these hurdles, there's a sense of opportunity brewing. In our Global Retail Outlook 2024 report, we asked 200 retail leaders around the globe to provide their expectations for revenue and operating margin for the industry as a whole. In this report, we assess the overall health of the retail sector and retailers who can effectively navigate the changing market terrain are poised for significant growth.
What are the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of the retailers?
We present a deep dive into three systemic challenges and three opportunities that will define the retail industry not only in the year ahead, but into the next decade and beyond.
Challenges
- Climate change and the credibility of retailers’ commitment towards the green transition
- A shortage of workers
- Supply chains under pressure
Opportunities
- Health and wellness on the rise
- Technology supports a shift from mass to micro
- Unlocking the power of Artificial Intelligence
Download our full Global Retail Outlook 2024 to learn more about the biggest focus areas for retailers in the year ahead.
Deep dive into the client interviews from the report:
Buoyed by opportunities founded in technology – not least the spectacular emergence of generative AI – which will reduce costs, improve productivity and enhance the customer experience, the retailers we interviewed as part of our Global Retail Outlook provided an optimistic outlook for both top and bottom line performance across the sector.
- Evan Sheehan, Retail, Wholesale & Distribution Sector Leader, Deloitte Global
About the survey
The Deloitte Global Retail Outlook 2024 is based on research carried out by independent market research agency Coleman-Parkes on Deloitte’s behalf. The survey was conducted by telephone and online with 200 retail professionals comprised of C-Suite and senior decision makers with direct responsibility for strategic initiatives within their organization. The survey was conducted between 10th November and 7th December 2023.
Key contact
