In 2024, global retail e-commerce sales reached an estimated ************ U.S. dollars. Projections indicate a ** percent growth in this figure over the coming years, with expectations to come close to ************** dollars by 2028. World players Among the key players on the world stage, the American marketplace giant Amazon holds the title of the largest e-commerce player globally, with a gross merchandise value of nearly *********** U.S. dollars in 2024. Amazon was also the most valuable retail brand globally, followed by mostly American competitors such as Walmart and the Home Depot. Leading e-tailing regions E-commerce is a dormant channel globally, but nowhere has it been as successful as in Asia. In 2024, the e-commerce revenue in that continent alone was measured at nearly ************ U.S. dollars, outperforming the Americas and Europe. That year, the up-and-coming e-commerce markets also centered around Asia. The Philippines and India stood out as the swiftest-growing e-commerce markets based on online sales, anticipating a growth rate surpassing ** percent.

Between 2021 and 2022, Shop Apotheke managed to keep return rates below *** percent. However, online returns of purchased products required over ****** kilograms of packaging in 2022, up from the previous year. According to the data released by the e-commerce pharmaceutical, most of package material was made of cardboard.

The average return for prime retail real estate in Europe and the UK is forecast to slow in 2025. In 2024, the average return in the UK was estimated at **** percent, and in 2025, it was expected to decline to *** percent. Overall, the investment and development prospects of high street retail real estate have improved since 2021.

Retail Sales in the United States increased 0.50 percent in July of 2025 over the previous month. This dataset provides - U.S. December Retail Sales Increased More Than Forecast - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Internet sales have played an increasingly significant role in retailing. In 2024, e-commerce accounted for over ** percent of retail sales worldwide. Forecasts indicate that by 2029, the online segment will make up close to over ** percent of total global retail sales. Retail e-commerce Online shopping has grown steadily in popularity in recent years. In 2024, global e-commerce sales amounted to over ************** U.S. dollars, a figure expected to exceed **** trillion U.S. dollars by 2028. Digital development in Latin America boomed during the COVID-19 pandemic, generating unprecedented e-commerce growth in various economies across the region. So much so that Brazil and Argentina appear to lead the world's fastest-growing online retail markets. This trend correlates strongly with the constantly improving online access, especially in "mobile-first" online communities, which have long struggled with traditioe-comernal fixed broadband connections due to financial or infrastructure constraints but enjoy the advantages of cheap mobile broadband connections. M-commerce on the rise The average order value of online shopping via smartphones and tablets still lags traditional e-commerce via desktop computers. However, e-retailers around the world have caught up in mobile e-commerce sales. Online shopping via smartphones is particularly prominent in Asia. By the end of 2021, Malaysia was the top digital market based on the percentage of the population that had purchased something by phone, with nearly ** percent having made a weekly mobile purchase. South Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines completed the top of the ranking.

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Consumer Stationery Retailing Market Size 2025-2029

The consumer stationery retailing market size is forecast to increase by USD 8.37 billion, at a CAGR of 2.8% between 2024 and 2029.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 53% growth during the forecast period.
By the Product - Paper-based stationery segment was valued at USD 31.12 billion in 2023
By the Distribution Channel - Offline segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 22.59 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD USD 8.37 billion 
CAGR : 2.8%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market continues to evolve, with online sales gaining significant traction. According to recent studies, e-commerce sales accounted for approximately 16% of total stationery revenue in 2021, up from 13% in 2019. This shift is driven by the convenience and accessibility offered by online platforms, as well as the increasing popularity of subscription services. However, the market faces challenges, such as rising raw material costs and procurement complexities due to environmental regulations. In response, retailers are focusing on sustainability initiatives, with recycled and eco-friendly products becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, the trend towards omnichannel retailing is growing, with many retailers integrating brick-and-mortar stores with online platforms to offer seamless shopping experiences. Overall, the market is expected to remain dynamic, with continued innovation and adaptation to changing consumer preferences and market conditions.

What will be the Size of the Consumer Stationery Retailing Market during the forecast period?

Explore market size, adoption trends, and growth potential for consumer stationery retailing market Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve, with innovation and technology shaping its landscape. In 2021, online sales accounted for 20% of total stationery revenue, up from 15% in 2018. This digital shift necessitates retailers' adoption of marketing automation tools, CRM data integration, and website analytics tracking. Additionally, retailers invest in demand planning processes, inventory control systems, and supply chain visibility to optimize store performance. Meanwhile, the importance of customer experience management is underscored by the fact that 62% of consumers are more likely to make repeat purchases from a retailer following a positive shopping experience. Retailers employ customer journey mapping, sales performance tracking, and checkout process optimization to enhance the shopping experience. Furthermore, data-driven decision making, sales data analysis, and planogram compliance are essential for operational excellence initiatives. Ultimately, these strategies contribute to profitability analysis and category management, ensuring retailers remain competitive in the dynamic the market.

How is this Consumer Stationery Retailing Industry segmented?

The consumer stationery retailing industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ProductPaper-based stationeryWriting equipmentMarking and correction equipmentDistribution ChannelOfflineOnlineEnd-userStudentsOffice workersCreativesOthersGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKAPACAustraliaChinaIndiaJapanRest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The paper-based stationery segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is undergoing significant transformations as digital technologies increasingly influence consumer behavior and shopping patterns. Customer satisfaction is a critical focus for retailers, with loss prevention techniques such as stockout rate reduction and shrinkage rate reduction becoming essential. Pricing strategies and retail analytics dashboards are being leveraged to optimize sales and improve store operations efficiency. Digital signage deployment and e-commerce platform integration are key trends, with targeted marketing campaigns and visual merchandising techniques used to enhance the shopping experience. Mobile POS systems and inventory management software are essential tools for managing inventory turnover rates and in-store analytics. Automated replenishment systems, demand forecasting algorithms, and sales forecasting models are crucial for optimizing supply chain operations and ensuring store layouts are optimized for sales. Employee productivity metrics and sales associate training are essential for improving store performance. Retailers are also focusing on omnichannel retail strategies, integrating customer relationship management and product lifecycle manageme

Retail Sales in the United States increased 3.90 percent in July of 2025 over the same month in the previous year. This dataset provides - United States Retail Sales YoY - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Supermarkets and grocery stores have endured a transformative journey since 2019, shaped by the pandemic, geopolitical tensions and an ever-changing market landscape. Grocers first encountered unprecedented demand as lockdowns redirected consumers' spending from entertainment to at-home essentials. Sales spiked, but the boom was fleeting; by 2021, factors like declining disposable income and soaring food prices reversed the trend. Even post-pandemic, the industry is evolving—more consumers than ever are embracing online grocery shopping, prompting traditional retailers to bolster their digital presence. Those unable or unwilling to adapt were largely forced out, while the largest supermarket chains maintained dominance through aggressive merger and acquisition activity and by leveraging vertically integrated operations. This momentous period caused heightened revenue volatility that still persists. Revenue has been rising at a CAGR of 0.1% over the past five years and is expected to dip 0.9% in 2024 when revenue will reach $111.9 billion. Amid this transformation, significant profit disparities worsened in an incredibly concentrated industry. Geopolitical instabilities like the war in Ukraine intensified supply chain disruptions, impacting costs for retailers. Rising energy prices compound this issue, squeezing profit as transportation expenses mount. Meanwhile, climate change injects further unpredictability into production costs, forcing grocers to manage these pressures by cautiously adjusting consumer prices. A class-action lawsuit against Loblaw Cos. Ltd. underscores market concentration challenges, spotlighting potential anti-competitive behaviours and their implications. This legal scrutiny, combined with governmental pressure for price transparency, could foster a more equitable marketplace. Should dominant players like Loblaw adjust their pricing strategies, it may level the playing field for smaller competitors, expanding competition and consumer choice. Over the next five years, a stable economic backdrop will support modest revenue growth for supermarkets. As disposable incomes stabilize, a return to preferred brands could uplift grocers' revenue. A more tempered rise in food prices will allow for strategic pricing decisions, providing grocers with a favourable environment for maintaining consumer loyalty. Technological advancements will be pivotal, with retailers expected to deepen investments in e-commerce and in-store technologies like AI-powered inventory management. This investment will be crucial as online grocery shopping and big-box retailers thrive. Governmental regulatory efforts may also reshape industry dynamics, offering smaller grocers a greater chance to compete by enhancing pricing equity. Continued inventory diversification reflecting health-conscious consumer preferences will likely continue, driven by rising interest in plant-based and ethical products. Retailers that navigate these shifts adeptly, leveraging both technology and emerging consumer trends, are poised to gain a competitive edge. Revenue is forecast to climb at a CAGR of 1.7% over the next five years, reaching $122.0 billion in 2029.

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India Online Fashion Retail Market Size 2025-2029

The India online fashion retail market size is forecast to increase by USD 36.01 billion, at a CAGR of 22.2% between 2024 and 2029.

Major Market Trends & Insights

By Product - Apparel segment was valued at USD 8.26 billion in 2022
By Gender - Women segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 314.31 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 36.01 billion 
CAGR : 22.2%

Market Summary

The market has witnessed significant growth, fueled by the increasing adoption of digital technologies and the rise in internet and smartphone penetration. According to recent reports, India's online fashion market is projected to reach USD 35 billion by 2025, growing at a steady pace. This expansion is driven by the convenience and accessibility offered by e-commerce platforms, which allow consumers to shop from the comfort of their homes. Moreover, the presence of various payment options, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and cash on delivery, has further boosted the market's growth. In contrast, traditional brick-and-mortar stores face challenges such as high rental costs and limited product offerings, making e-commerce an attractive alternative.
The fashion industry's online segment includes various categories, such as apparel, footwear, and accessories, with apparel being the largest and fastest-growing segment. As the market continues to evolve, we can expect to see increased competition, innovative marketing strategies, and personalized shopping experiences.

What will be the size of the India Online Fashion Retail Market during the forecast period?

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The market exhibits a significant presence in the country's burgeoning e-commerce sector. According to recent estimates, the market currently accounts for over 3% of India's total retail sector, with a growth rate of approximately 25% year-on-year. Looking forward, this figure is projected to reach nearly 5% by 2025. A comparison of key performance indicators reveals that online fashion retailers in India have achieved impressive customer engagement. For instance, the average customer lifetime value stands at INR 25,000, while the conversion rate for mobile commerce reaches 35%. Furthermore, the market's growth is driven by factors such as increasing internet penetration, improving digital infrastructure, and the rising popularity of social commerce.
In terms of competition, players in the online fashion retail space continue to invest in various strategies to differentiate themselves. These include website traffic analysis, customer segmentation models, and personalization algorithms, among others. Despite challenges such as payment processing fees, e-commerce logistics, and returns and exchanges, the market's potential for growth remains strong. In conclusion, the market presents a compelling opportunity for businesses looking to expand their reach and capitalize on the country's growing digital economy. With a projected growth rate of 25% year-on-year and a customer lifetime value of INR 25,000, the market's potential for revenue generation is significant.
Furthermore, the increasing popularity of mobile commerce and social commerce trends underscores the importance of a robust digital presence for fashion retailers.

How is this India Online Fashion Retail Market segmented?

The online fashion retail in India industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Apparel
  Footwear
  Bags and accessories


Gender

  Women
  Men
  Children


Price Range

  Economy
  Mid-Range
  Premium


Platform

  Mobile Apps
  Web Portals


Geography

  APAC

    India

By Product Insights

The apparel segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic and evolving online fashion retail landscape in India, the apparel segment experiences consistent growth. Consumers prioritize fashionable and comfortable clothing, driving retailers to cater to diverse consumer segments. The market encompasses a wide range of clothing categories for men, women, children, and infants. Top wear apparel, including tops, blouses, dresses, casual shirts, formal shirts, T-shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, tank tops, and vests, currently accounts for a significant market share. Meanwhile, bottom wear, consisting of trousers, jeans, jeggings, pants, shorts, and skirts, also experiences steady demand. Intimates and sleepwear, such as pajamas, bathrobes, shapewear, slips, socks, underwear, and briefs, are essential categories that cater to consumers' daily needs.

Children's and inf

In 2024, about **** percent of (in-store and online) retail purchases in the United States resulted in returns. This was the highest return rate in the observed period.

Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: SO: Trade: Retail: Others: Response Rate data was reported at 73.000 % in 11 Aug 2021. This records an increase from the previous number of 35.000 % for 15 Jul 2021. Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: SO: Trade: Retail: Others: Response Rate data is updated daily, averaging 63.000 % from May 2020 (Median) to 11 Aug 2021, with 19 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 96.000 % in 13 Jan 2021 and a record low of 35.000 % in 15 Jul 2021. Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: SO: Trade: Retail: Others: Response Rate data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by National Institute of Economic Research. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Sweden – Table SE.S009: Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: Seizing Operations (Discontinued).

Pet stores prospered in recent years as households have become more financially stable and pet ownership has risen. Pet parents have increasingly lavished their pets with premium food products, designer pet accessories and luxury grooming services. The industry has expanded despite mounting competition from supermarkets, mass merchandisers and online retailers. These competitors offer similar products at greater convenience and competitive prices. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores have successfully positioned themselves as pioneers and exclusive providers of high-quality food and additional service offerings, like grooming or day care. Pet store revenue is expected to climb at a CAGR of 0.3% to $31.6 billion through the end of 2025, including growth of 1.4% in 2025 alone. The revenue growth rate was suppressed because revenue jumped 18.6% to begin the period, as pet ownership skyrocketed in response to the pandemic. Since pets are widely viewed as family members, pet owners have shifted their preferences to higher-quality organic, gluten-free and grain-free pet foods to keep their pets happy and healthy. These premium products and services are high-margin, enabling profit gains for pet stores. Sales of designer dog breeds have also jumped in recent years, contributing to recent growth. While stores have capitalized on growing pet ownership trends, pet store sales growth was constrained by online retailers' surging popularity. Moving forward, pet stores will continue to exhibit revenue growth, albeit slower than before. While positive consumer trends will benefit pet stores, competition from online retailers, mass merchandisers and discount department stores will be more vigorous, limiting the expansion. An aging population will contribute to higher sales of pets and pet-related products as older consumers adopt pets to fulfill their needs for companionship. Younger consumers will continue to buy pets as companions and to round out their budding families. Stores will push premium products and pets to cater to growing appetites for luxury among many consumers. Pet store revenue is expected to swell at a CAGR of 2.4% to $35.6 billion through the end of 2030.

Snapshot img

Online Childrens Apparel Market Size 2025-2029

The online childrens apparel market size is forecast to increase by USD 44.3 billion, at a CAGR of 9.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The online children's apparel market is a continually evolving sector that has witnessed significant growth in recent years. According to market research, online sales in this category have seen a notable rise, with an increasing number of parents opting for the convenience and variety that e-commerce platforms offer. social media plays a pivotal role in driving sales in the online children's apparel market. Brands and retailers leverage social media channels to engage with their audience, showcase new collections, and offer promotions. In fact, social media influencers have become a powerful marketing tool, with many partnering with brands to promote their products to their large followings.
However, the market faces challenges as well. The rise of counterfeit products poses a significant threat, with many unscrupulous sellers flooding e-commerce platforms with fake items. This not only undermines brand reputation but also puts consumer safety at risk. Despite these challenges, the future of the online children's apparel market looks promising. Innovations in technology, such as virtual try-on features and personalized recommendations, are expected to enhance the shopping experience and drive sales. Moreover, the increasing popularity of Subscription Services and rental models is likely to disrupt traditional retail models and offer new opportunities for growth. In terms of numerical data, market research indicates that online sales accounted for approximately 20% of total children's apparel sales in 2020.
This figure is projected to reach 30% by 2025, reflecting the growing preference for online shopping in this category. In conclusion, the online children's apparel market is a dynamic and evolving sector that offers significant opportunities for growth. While social media and technology innovations drive sales, the threat from counterfeit products remains a challenge that brands and retailers must address to maintain consumer trust and loyalty.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for a 32% growth during the forecast period.
The market is expected to grow significantly in Europe as well over the forecast period.
By the Material, the Natural sub-segment was valued at USD 32.60 billion in 2023
By the Product, the Trousers sub-segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 125.62 billion 
Future Opportunities: USD 44.3 billion
CAGR : 9.8%
North America: Largest market in 2023

What will be the Size of the Online Childrens Apparel Market during the forecast period?

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The online children's apparel market represents a significant and continually evolving sector within the broader e-commerce landscape. According to recent market research, the market experienced a 21.7% increase in sales during the last fiscal year, underscoring its growing importance in the retail industry. Looking ahead, industry experts anticipate a 15.3% expansion in market size over the next five years. A comparison of numerical data reveals the dynamic nature of this market. In 2021, online sales accounted for 25.4% of the total children's apparel market share. By contrast, industry analysts project that this figure will reach 32.1% by 2026. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including the convenience of shopping online, the increasing popularity of digital marketing tactics, and the expanding reach of social media platforms.
Online retail strategies have become increasingly sophisticated, with a focus on order processing speed, website traffic analysis, and customer support channels. Effective inventory optimization, data-driven decision making, and product lifecycle management are also essential components of a successful e-commerce business model. One of the key challenges in the online children's apparel market is managing return rates. By implementing strategies such as accurate product descriptions, clear sizing guidelines, and effective customer communication, retailers can reduce return rates and improve customer satisfaction. Digital marketing tactics, including search advertising campaigns, email marketing, and content marketing, play a crucial role in attracting and retaining customers.
Social media engagement is also a significant factor, with platforms like Instagram and Pinterest serving as valuable channels for showcasing new collections and engaging with customers. Apparel supply chain optimization is another critical aspect of the online children's apparel market. By leveraging technology to streamline operations, retailers can improve shipping cost optimization, pricing strategy

Online shopping has become a way of life. Once considered a novelty, much like the internet itself, the online shopping phenomenon has surpassed business and consumer expectations. It has evolved and expanded rapidly, with escalating internet and broadband uptake and changing consumer attitudes helping online shopping become a mainstream retail avenue. Greater investment in online platforms to advance website navigation, enhance security and improve delivery is fuelling a shift in consumer buying habits towards online shopping. The pandemic brought retail trading in Australia to a standstill, with lockdown periods and restrictions leading to a surge in online shopping sales. As consumers jumped online at breakneck speed, the online market was flooded with new entrants and businesses ramped up their digital sales capabilities to keep up with demand. Despite the hype and surge in sales, challenging trading conditions in the post-pandemic environment have eroded some of the earlier gains. Strong inflation and rising interest rates have combined to create a cost-of-living crisis, with consumers reassessing their online spending habits in the face of tightening purse strings. Nonetheless, revenue is anticipated to have grown at an annualised 7.4% over the five years through 2024-25 and is expected to total $58.0 billion in the current year, when revenue is set to climb by an estimated 5.2%. Going forwards, online shopping revenue is forecast to climb at an annualised 6.5% through the end of 2029-30 to total a projected $79.4 billion, aided by continued consumer demand. Greater digital connectivity will allow consumers to shop anywhere and anytime, with advances in augmented reality opening new doors for online retailers. Strong revenue prospects will entice more bricks-and-mortar retailers to launch online stores to complement their physical store network, while many online retailers will open shopfronts and flagship stores, blurring the lines between the two. Escalating competition, particularly from international low-cost retailers like Temu and Shein, will limit growth in profitability.

Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: Turnover: Trade: Retail: Information & Communication (IC): Response Rate data was reported at 42.000 % in 11 Aug 2021. This records an increase from the previous number of 39.000 % for 15 Jul 2021. Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: Turnover: Trade: Retail: Information & Communication (IC): Response Rate data is updated daily, averaging 46.000 % from May 2020 (Median) to 11 Aug 2021, with 21 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 61.000 % in 13 Jan 2021 and a record low of 18.000 % in 29 Jul 2020. Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: Turnover: Trade: Retail: Information & Communication (IC): Response Rate data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by National Institute of Economic Research. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Sweden – Table SE.S008: Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: Turnover (Discontinued).

Between 2019 and 2021, the amount of returned merchandise ending up in landfills almost doubled in the United States. This figure hit **** million tons, up from the previous year when some **** million tons were thrown away. Similarly, greenhouse gas emissions also increased from transporting returns, reaching ** million metric tons of CO2 in 2021. As of 2023, return volume declined to *** billion tons.

Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: SO: Trade: Retail: Response Rate data was reported at 43.000 % in 11 Aug 2021. This stayed constant from the previous number of 43.000 % for 15 Jul 2021. Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: SO: Trade: Retail: Response Rate data is updated daily, averaging 46.000 % from May 2020 (Median) to 11 Aug 2021, with 19 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 57.000 % in 12 Aug 2020 and a record low of 25.000 % in 29 Jul 2020. Sweden Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: SO: Trade: Retail: Response Rate data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by National Institute of Economic Research. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Sweden – Table SE.S009: Business Survey: COVID-19 Effect: Seizing Operations (Discontinued).

Companies in the Personal Accessory Retailing industry have faced a challenging trading climate shaped by the aftershocks of the pandemic, changing consumer habits and volatile trading conditions. A strong rebound in consumer spending followed the easing of lockdowns and the return of international travel, with luggage, handbags and sunglasses witnessing notable sales spikes through 2021-22. As workplaces reopened and social activities resumed, shoppers sought to refresh their personal accessories, driving early gains. However, this momentum proved short-lived as high inflation, rising interest rates and a cost-of-living crunch battered household incomes, stalling discretionary spending. Despite annual volatility, industry revenue has climbed at an annualised 2.8% over the past five years and is expected to total $1.7 billion in 2025-26, when revenue will grow by an estimated 2.3%. Outside of economic influences, the digital revolution has gained pace, with an unprecedented rise in online shopping, fuelled by investments in ecommerce, mobile apps and social media apps. This digital shift has created new winners and losers. While nimble retailers have adapted to the omnichannel model, some personal accessory retailers have faltered under mounting competition, leading to store closures and layoffs. Ongoing competition from the online-only market and expanded department store offerings have led to a tightening of margins and lower profitability. Going forwards, personal accessory retailers are poised to benefit from an upswing in trading conditions. A rebound in international and domestic travel, coupled with easing inflationary pressure and stronger consumer sentiment, is projected to boost demand for travel and fashion accessories like luggage, handbags and sunglasses. Continued growth of online retail, intensified by ongoing digital transformation, like the integration of artificial intelligence, augmented reality and omnichannel services, should enhance customer engagement and support revenue streams. However, competition will remain fierce, with traditional retailers under pressure to innovate as department stores, niche startups, and online-only sites expand their influence. Store closures and industry consolidation are likely, yet those embracing technology, sustainability and changing fashion trends are best positioned to capture consumer attention. Industry revenue is forecast to expand at an annualised 1.7% over the five years through 2030-31 to total $1.8 billion.

Abstract

The Consumer price surveys primarily provide the following: Data on CPI in Palestine covering the West Bank, Gaza Strip and Jerusalem J1 for major and sub groups of expenditure. Statistics needed for decision-makers, planners and those who are interested in the national economy. Contribution to the preparation of quarterly and annual national accounts data.

Consumer Prices and indices are used for a wide range of purposes, the most important of which are as follows: Adjustment of wages, government subsidies and social security benefits to compensate in part or in full for the changes in living costs. To provide an index to measure the price inflation of the entire household sector, which is used to eliminate the inflation impact of the components of the final consumption expenditure of households in national accounts and to dispose of the impact of price changes from income and national groups. Price index numbers are widely used to measure inflation rates and economic recession. Price indices are used by the public as a guide for the family with regard to its budget and its constituent items. Price indices are used to monitor changes in the prices of the goods traded in the market and the consequent position of price trends, market conditions and living costs. However, the price index does not reflect other factors affecting the cost of living, e.g. the quality and quantity of purchased goods. Therefore, it is only one of many indicators used to assess living costs. It is used as a direct method to identify the purchasing power of money, where the purchasing power of money is inversely proportional to the price index.

Geographic coverage

Palestine West Bank Gaza Strip Jerusalem

Analysis unit

The target population for the CPI survey is the shops and retail markets such as grocery stores, supermarkets, clothing shops, restaurants, public service institutions, private schools and doctors.

Universe

The target population for the CPI survey is the shops and retail markets such as grocery stores, supermarkets, clothing shops, restaurants, public service institutions, private schools and doctors.

Kind of data

Sample survey data [ssd]

Sampling procedure

A non-probability purposive sample of sources from which the prices of different goods and services are collected was updated based on the establishment census 2017, in a manner that achieves full coverage of all goods and services that fall within the Palestinian consumer system. These sources were selected based on the availability of the goods within them. It is worth mentioning that the sample of sources was selected from the main cities inside Palestine: Jenin, Tulkarm, Nablus, Qalqiliya, Ramallah, Al-Bireh, Jericho, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Hebron, Gaza, Jabalia, Dier Al-Balah, Nusseirat, Khan Yunis and Rafah. The selection of these sources was considered to be representative of the variation that can occur in the prices collected from the various sources. The number of goods and services included in the CPI is approximately 730 commodities, whose prices were collected from 3,200 sources. (COICOP) classification is used for consumer data as recommended by the United Nations System of National Accounts (SNA-2008).

Sampling deviation

Not apply

Mode of data collection

Computer Assisted Personal Interview [capi]

Research instrument

A tablet-supported electronic form was designed for price surveys to be used by the field teams in collecting data from different governorates, with the exception of Jerusalem J1. The electronic form is supported with GIS, and GPS mapping technique that allow the field workers to locate the outlets exactly on the map and the administrative staff to manage the field remotely. The electronic questionnaire is divided into a number of screens, namely: First screen: shows the metadata for the data source, governorate name, governorate code, source code, source name, full source address, and phone number. Second screen: shows the source interview result, which is either completed, temporarily paused or permanently closed. It also shows the change activity as incomplete or rejected with the explanation for the reason of rejection. Third screen: shows the item code, item name, item unit, item price, product availability, and reason for unavailability. Fourth screen: checks the price data of the related source and verifies their validity through the auditing rules, which was designed specifically for the price programs. Fifth screen: saves and sends data through (VPN-Connection) and (WI-FI technology).

In case of the Jerusalem J1 Governorate, a paper form has been designed to collect the price data so that the form in the top part contains the metadata of the data source and in the lower section contains the price data for the source collected. After that, the data are entered into the price program database.

Cleaning operations

The price survey forms were already encoded by the project management depending on the specific international statistical classification of each survey. After the researcher collected the price data and sent them electronically, the data was reviewed and audited by the project management. Achievement reports were reviewed on a daily and weekly basis. Also, the detailed price reports at data source levels were checked and reviewed on a daily basis by the project management. If there were any notes, the researcher was consulted in order to verify the data and call the owner in order to correct or confirm the information.

At the end of the data collection process in all governorates, the data will be edited using the following process: Logical revision of prices by comparing the prices of goods and services with others from different sources and other governorates. Whenever a mistake is detected, it should be returned to the field for correction. Mathematical revision of the average prices for items in governorates and the general average in all governorates. Field revision of prices through selecting a sample of the prices collected from the items.

Response rate

Not apply

Sampling error estimates

The findings of the survey may be affected by sampling errors due to the use of samples in conducting the survey rather than total enumeration of the units of the target population, which increases the chances of variances between the actual values we expect to obtain from the data if we had conducted the survey using total enumeration. The computation of differences between the most important key goods showed that the variation of these goods differs due to the specialty of each survey. For example, for the CPI, the variation between its goods was very low, except in some cases such as banana, tomato, and cucumber goods that had a high coefficient of variation during 2019 due to the high oscillation in their prices. The variance of the key goods in the computed and disseminated CPI survey that was carried out on the Palestine level was for reasons related to sample design and variance calculation of different indicators since there was a difficulty in the dissemination of results by governorates due to lack of weights. Non-sampling errors are probable at all stages of data collection or data entry. Non-sampling errors include: Non-response errors: the selected sources demonstrated a significant cooperation with interviewers; so, there wasn't any case of non-response reported during 2019. Response errors (respondent), interviewing errors (interviewer), and data entry errors: to avoid these types of errors and reduce their effect to a minimum, project managers adopted a number of procedures, including the following: More than one visit was made to every source to explain the objectives of the survey and emphasize the confidentiality of the data. The visits to data sources contributed to empowering relations, cooperation, and the verification of data accuracy. Interviewer errors: a number of procedures were taken to ensure data accuracy throughout the process of field data compilation: Interviewers were selected based on educational qualification, competence, and assessment. Interviewers were trained theoretically and practically on the questionnaire. Meetings were held to remind interviewers of instructions. In addition, explanatory notes were supplied with the surveys. A number of procedures were taken to verify data quality and consistency and ensure data accuracy for the data collected by a questioner throughout processing and data entry (knowing that data collected through paper questionnaires did not exceed 5%): Data entry staff was selected from among specialists in computer programming and were fully trained on the entry programs. Data verification was carried out for 10% of the entered questionnaires to ensure that data entry staff had entered data correctly and in accordance with the provisions of the questionnaire. The result of the verification was consistent with the original data to a degree of 100%. The files of the entered data were received, examined, and reviewed by project managers before findings were extracted. Project managers carried out many checks on data logic and coherence, such as comparing the data of the current month with that of the previous month, and comparing the data of sources and between governorates. Data collected by tablet devices were checked for consistency and accuracy by applying rules at item level to be checked.

Data appraisal

Other technical procedures to improve data quality: Seasonal adjustment processes

Unpredictable trading conditions have challenged the Department Stores industry over the past few years. Retailers’ revenue hiked in 2020-21 thanks to solid consumer spending on discretionary items, including expensive items like furniture. Government stimulus expanded real household discretionary income, encouraging consumer spending. However, the end of pandemic-related government support has weakened real household discretionary income and consumer sentiment, which has tightened consumers’ budgets for non-essential items sold at department stores in recent years. High inflation has also pressured department stores. A few enterprises entered the industry when business confidence heightened in 2021-22 and 2023-24. However, existing companies, including well-established players, have downsized floor space, reduced store numbers or opted to permanently leave the industry in recent years amid high inflation. These cost-saving strategies have fundamentally shrunk the industry’s size, with declines in profit and wages echoing this trend. Department stores have suffered from reduced consumer spending, which has harmed revenue, contributing to an expected 3.0% fall through the end of 2025-26, to an estimated $6.1 billion. Department stores have faced intense competition from online-only and specialty retailers offering affordable prices or unique products. An emerging consumer preference for personalised experiences has challenged department stores as many have shown strength in providing various products to broad consumer groups. Department stores’ income is projected to drop 2.9% in 2025-26. In response, department stores have been improving operational efficiencies, which include closing unprofitable stores and consolidating operations. Department stores have adopted data-driven technologies and omnichannel strategies to strengthen digital selling amid consumers’ growing online shopping habits. These measures have elevated profitability in recent years. Revenue is forecast to rise by an annualised0.4%, totalling $6.3 billion, through the end of 2030-31. A projected climb in real household discretionary income and consumer sentiment are forecast to stimulate consumer spending in department stores. Still, department stores will face fierce internal and external competition from specialty retailers, including apparel, furniture, sporting goods and electronics stores. Department stores that attract consumer interest through an expanded social media presence and strong multi-channel strategies can strengthen customer engagement and sales.