2.3.17
Object
Grafton Area of Major Change SPD 2017
Representation ID: 32173
Received: 06/11/2017
Respondent: Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited (USS) Aberdeen Asset Management on behalf of Barclays Nominees (Aberdeen)
Agent: Deloitte LLP
We welcome the SPD's recognition of the changing face of retail and the wider major trends, there are further challenges facing retail (The Role of The High Street Deloitte LLP, 2015):
-Oversupply - rapid expansion by retailers has led to the duplication of brands in many town centres;
-Affordability - increase in staff costs, rent costs and business rate changes;
-The configuration of retail space has not always managed to keep pace;
-Changed behaviours - consumers are seeking an integrated shopping experience; and
-Digital Acceleration - growth of omni-channel retailing and the growth of artificial intelligence.
please see attached letter.