G. Operations Strategy 1. The majority of retailers operate stores in fixed locations, but nonstore retailing is becoming increasingly important. Nonstore retailing is growing rapidly due to technological advances and changes in consumer buying behavior. An interactive kiosk is a computerized machine with a touch-sensitive screen that allows consumers to view product photos and buy products by credit card. Interactive kiosks go well beyond traditional vending machines.
Customers use a personal computer and a modem to browse through product offerings and place orders.
H. Value-Chain Partnership Strategies 1. Retailers need strong relationships with their channel partners. A seamless, timely flow of products is needed to satisfy customers. Upstream marketers depend on the information about consumer needs and buying patterns that retailers can provide. Category management is the practice of managing each product category as a separate business.