Retail change and retail logistics in the United Kingdom: Past trends and future prospects

The article discusses the factors which have influenced retail change in the UK and the impact of these changes on the logistical support to shops. During the last 30 years there has been a retailing revolution in the country. Consumers have become more affluent, discerning and mobile, and retailers have responded to consumer needs by offering a range of formats in city centre and out of town locations, A major part of this retailing revolution has occurred in the field of logistics where British retailers have gained control over the supply chain, reducing lead times from the manufacturing plant to the store. The grocery sector in particular has a streamlined logistical system with investment into composite distribution centres and transport to supply an increasing number of superstores. This logistical framework is now being challenged by technological, environmental and political change. The government's policy to minimise environmental damage and revitalise town centres poses challenges for logistics managers. Furthermore, the viability of home shopping is being tested by 'traditional' retailers with the prospect of the take-off of electronic retailing by the millennium. The article discusses these new formats and the logistical consequences of their development.