Retailers in Southeast Asia urged to embrace digitalisation, sustainability

Euromonitor’s expert on Channels Practice to focus on experiential retail, digitalisation, and sustainability at Retail Asia Summit in November.

Case study examples and results of latest research on retail markets and digitalisation will be high on the list of discussions Retail Asia Summit taking place at the Furama City Centre in Singapore on 16 November.

One of the headliners providing the meat of this data-driven discussion will be Quan Yao Peh, who is the senior analyst of the Channels Practice at Euromonitor International. Peh’s commentary is well-recognised, having been featured across prominent regional publications.

“At Euromonitor, we focus on consumer industries. My work involves engaging and advising clients on the competitive landscape and market trends in the retail and digital consumer sectors,” he told Retail Asia in a recent interview about his engagement in the Singapore summit.

“My presentation will discuss the current state and trends of major retail categories in Southeast Asia,” he said. Elaborating further, Peh said he would delve into three main themes: “rethinking the store, digital shopping and engagement, and social and environmental responsibility.”

He believes these themes are set to impact the future of the retail sector in Southeast Asia significantly. It cannot be overemphasised that Peh’s insights are drawn from his experience at Euromonitor, which is a global strategic market intelligence firm, mainly focused on consumer industries.

And due to the tumultuous impacts of the pandemic, the subjects he said could not be timelier. “The pandemic has pushed the acceleration of retail digitalisation and reshaped consumers' expectations of retail in Southeast Asia,” said Peh.

He noted the heightened demand consumers place on retailers, both online and offline, especially in the realm of environmental and social obligations. Digital tools and novel technologies have emerged as pivotal in retailers’ quests to serve post-COVID consumer needs, he added.

“In my presentation, I'll delve into various case studies of retail innovations implemented by brands and retailers, all aimed at redefining the shopping experience and catering to ever-evolving consumer needs,” Peh told Retail Asia.

Asked what key takeaways he expects attendees to gather, Peh was resolute: “Experiential retail, digitalisation, and sustainability will shape the future of retail in Southeast Asia. It’s imperative for retailers to act on these themes urgently. Staying ahead in this competitive regional retail landscape requires retailers to remain the preferred shopping destinations for consumers.”

To learn more and benefit from these insights, grab the chance to engage with Peh and other industry leaders at the Retail Asia Summit. Registration details can be found at retailasia.com.