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Sea Change

The online retail market is a threat to the retail real estate business.

By Tony LoPinto | Updated on December 04, 2012

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Sea Change

Across the globe we have a rising tide as the ice melts on the polar caps, initially imperceptible, but eventually, and very predictably, the seas will overtake coastal lands. A sea change is also, but much less gradually, overtaking the retail business. The growth of online sales is staggering, and going no where but up. And now, the online phenomenon is also becoming more grassroots. Today’s Wall Street Journal reported that Amazon, Walmart, EBay and a host of other retailers are marrying online sales with same day delivery. Thus, we are experiencing demand for instant gratification for stuff-hungry shoppers who love the online buy, but want it now! Sort of the retailers’ version of SMS messaging. On the organizational front, if I am an owner, developer or operator of retail of any size, shape or location, I would get into the market, fast, to find talent that is digital-media savvy. It’s the only lifeboat to combat the rising tide.

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