In today’s uncertain economic environment, retailers are increasingly challenged to balance managing the day-to-day business while continuing to prioritize strategic investments in the future. As always, putting innovation on the agenda remains crucial to achieve long-term market leadership.

This 19th edition of Retail Innovations captures 52 of the most fascinating case studies in retail that span 19 countries. This year’s winners demonstrate a renewed focus on physical stores. Amidst rising digital customer acquisition costs, brick and mortar retail is an increasingly attractive direct and wholesale channel to obtain new customers and drive profitable growth in an expensive capital environment.

The current market is one of scarcity. Examples include scarcity in resources, scarcity in personnel and scarcity in disposable income. These effects create an insecure time in which retailing is difficult. Never before did the retail environment ask to respond so quickly to change. Adapting has become the new normal.

The 18th edition of JCWG and The Ebeltoft Group’s Retail Innovations proves that retailers are creative and innovative. This edition includes operations of retailers which have enhanced their efficiency, enhanced the experience for the customers, and implemented innovations for a better world.