IRCE 2008 Session Descriptions

When any market goes mainstream, the big players come in and merely by virtue of their size and resources, they increase the competition. That has the effect of forcing all competitors to do a better job of meeting customers' expectations. It also means that some of the big brands who have not yet established an Internet presence will try to buy their way online. This session will examine what a more mature online retailing industry means to all players. Our speaker will address such issues as the rising level of investment needed to stay competitive, how smaller retailers can find growth in a market dominated by large brand names and what the prospects are for acquisitions as large retailers try to establish or extend their web-based initiatives.