International retail research: focus, methodology and conceptual development

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to consider the development of research in international retailing over the last 20 years and propose a future research agenda within a conceptual framework. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews the development of the retail internationalisation literature. Findings – Explains how different research topics have emerged over the years and how researchers have responded methodologically to the different research challenges encountered. Research limitations/implications – The paper emphasises the importance of journals such as the International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management in the development of the international retailing research domain and discusses the challenge researchers currently have in developing the subject area. Practical implications – Explores current understanding of the internationalisation process and through the consideration of different activities and processes within the international retail firm proposes a future research agenda. Originality/value – The paper addresses the achievements of researchers in the area of international retailing over the last 20 years and, within a conceptual framework, explores those lacunae in the knowledge base that require further research.