Supermarkets and Grocery Stores in Australia Industry Market Research Report Now Updated by IBISWorld
Melbourne, Australia (PRWEB) September 05, 2014 -- The Supermarket and Grocery Stores industry in Australia is one of the most fiercely competitive industries. The entry and rapid growth of German-owned ALDI, which almost exclusively sells private-label products at discounted prices, has caused a massive shift in the industry. The composition of supermarket shelves has changed significantly over the past five years, as the two giants of the industry – Woolworths and Coles – scrambled to compete with ALDI's low prices. Changing consumer sentiment and preferences have also influenced trading conditions across the industry. Industry revenue is projected to grow by 2.3% annualised over the five years through 2014-15, to reach $91.6 billion. This includes forecast growth of 2.6% in 2014-15. According to IBISWorld industry analyst Brooke Tonkin, “Coles and Woolworths have pressured suppliers of branded products to lower their prices, helping the major supermarkets to continue their price war.” Supermarkets have also used weekly specials and other marketing initiatives, such as fuel dockets, to compete for consumer dollars. These practices have come under scrutiny by regulatory bodies, with both the Senate and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to launch investigations into the conduct of Woolworths and Coles.
Growing demand for cheaper private-label products has resulted in these products occupying more shelf space over the past five years. Consumers now view private-label products as genuine alternatives to more expensive, branded products. This is largely due to ALDI's growing presence in the industry. “Woolworths and Coles have subsequently expanded their own private-label ranges to secure their piece of the private-label pie,” says Tonkin. Supermarket sales will continue to dominate the Retail Trade division. The continued expansion of private-label products, driven by weak consumer sentiment forecast over the next five years, will help drive industry revenue growth. The development of sophisticated online sale methods, including smartphone and tablet applications, is expected to further increase supermarket sales. With these online functions also come convenient alternative pick-up and home-delivery options, further attracting clients to these supermarkets. Over the next five years, competition will remain intense, with Costco and ALDI stores affecting consumer shopping trends.
The Supermarket and Grocery Stores industry is one of the most concentrated industries in Australia. The top four players are Woolworths Ltd, Wesfarmers Limited, Metcash Limited and ALDI Stores Supermarkets Pty Ltd. Acquisition activity undertaken by Woolworths and Coles has contributed to increasing concentration since the mid-1970s. These two players alone account for the majority of the market. The entry of German-owned ALDI has served to increase industry concentration. ALDI operates as a low-cost player that stocks a limited number of popular grocery items. Consumers have responded positively to this model, contributing to ALDI's rapid growth over the past five years.
For more information, visit IBISWorld’s Supermarkets and Grocery Stores industry in Australia report page.
Supermarkets and grocery stores retail a range of groceries and food lines, including fruit and vegetables, bread, cigarettes, canned goods, toiletries, dairy goods, delicatessen items and cleaning goods. Specialist retailers, niche retailers and convenience stores are excluded from the industry.
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IBISWorld industry Report Key Topics
Industry Performance
Executive Summary
Key External Drivers
Current Performance
Industry Outlook
Industry Life Cycle
Products & Markets
Supply Chain
Products & Services
Major Markets
International Trade
Business Locations
Competitive Landscape
Market Share Concentration
Key Success Factors
Cost Structure Benchmarks
Basis of Competition
Barriers to Entry
Industry Globalisation
Major Companies
Operating Conditions
Capital Intensity
Technology & Systems
Revenue Volatility
Regulation & Policy
Industry Assistance
Key Statistics
Industry Data
Annual Change
Key Ratios
About IBISWorld Inc.
Recognised as the nation’s most trusted independent source of industry and market research, IBISWorld offers a comprehensive database of unique information and analysis on every Australian industry. With an extensive online portfolio, valued for its depth and scope, the company equips clients with the insight necessary to make better business decisions. Headquartered in Melbourne, IBISWorld serves a range of business, professional service and government organisations through more than 10 locations worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.ibisworld.com.au or call (03) 9655 3886.
Gavin Smith, IBISWorld, http://www.ibisworld.com, +61 396553838, [email protected]
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