Social Issues: Who Loves Global Retailers?

Abstract

Food retailers, like any other business, live in society — or, for the international operators, in many different societies. They affect, and are affected by them. Only if they can be seen to contribute to the society as a whole, rather than damage it in the selfish pursuit of profit, will they flourish. In this chapter, we will discuss the main challenges to international food retailers: anti-globalisation (anti-Americanism and anti-capitalism); attacks on multiple supermarkets in general; problems of food safety and quality; health issues, particularly obesity; reduction of consumer choice; effects on suppliers, both large multinationals and small, local firms; and the way that governments respond through legislation and regulation.