Transition challenges for the Dutch retail sector

Research
This research explores the investment needs of the Dutch retail sector considering the challenges and opportunities arising from transformations in sustainability, digitalisation, and talent development. It was commissioned by social partners in the retail sector, under the direction of 3xM Foundation.

Results
The study shows that the retail sector needs additional investments of about 1.2 per cent of turnover per year to realise the ‘Triple Transformation’ (sustainability, digitalisation, and talent development). Without these investments, in particular smaller retailers will risk not being able to keep up, which could eventually lead to economic and social consequences such as unemployment and loss of competitiveness.

Method
This study used a combination of quantitative data analysis, scenario development and literature review. Data was collected from public sources supplemented by insights from previous studies by McKinsey and the European Commission.