The French retail sector witnessed a radical transformation in 2022. After a decade of stability, the ranking of the leading retail brands was shaken up. Here's a look at the major changes and trends that marked this year.
A new leader on the podium
For the first time in ten years, the retail chain rankings have seen a major shift. U supermarkets have dethroned Carrefour Hyper, recording a staggering €1.7 billion growth in just one year. This meteoric rise is all the more significant as it symbolizes the triumph of an independent cooperative over an integrated giant. Inflation, which picked up steam in the spring of 2022, was a determining factor in this rise.
Brands in full expansion
The year 2022 was marked by growth or stability in the turnover of 76 brands, compared to 86 in 2021 and only 47 in 2020. Among the notable performances:
- Galeries Lafayette saw its turnover jump by 28%, mainly thanks to the influx of tourists.
- Zara posted impressive growth of nearly 30%, despite shrinking its store network.
- Sport 2000 stood out in the sports sector with a 23% increase in its turnover.
Sectors in difficulty
However, inflation hasn't benefited everyone. The stagnation of purchasing power in 2022 led to a decline in non-food spending. The home improvement and DIY sectors were particularly affected. E-commerce, meanwhile, recorded a 7% decline, although Amazon saw its revenue increase by 16.6%.
Fashion Renaissance
Fashion, which had been in decline for twenty years, regained momentum in 2022 with growth of 3.9%. Flagship retailers such as Primark, Zara, and H&M all posted double-digit growth. Department stores also benefited from this momentum, particularly thanks to the return of tourists.
An uncertain future
Despite these positive developments, the outlook is fraught with uncertainty. The decline in food consumption, which fell by 4.6% in 2022, is a major source of concern, a phenomenon not seen since the 1960s.
The year 2022 has reshaped the retail landscape in France. While some brands have thrived, others have faced major challenges. The future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the retail sector is constantly evolving.