Latin America 2010: A Year of Retailer Growth

For most local and international retailers and vendors, Latin America is the critical market to get right in 2010. Are you ready to succeed in the one key growth market of the new year?

• Speed of Recovery from Recession:  Brasil and Peru are leading the way, havingalready moved back into general growth. Chile and Colombia are not far behind andMexico is expected to recover early in the next yearWhat does this mean for account planning in the region for 2010?
• The Continued Growth of Wal-Mart: The company continues to dedicate more and more funds for capital expenditures in 2010 and has stated clearly that it sees 2010 as its year of opportunity across the region.
• The Possible Expansion of Wal-Mart: They have been able to absorb D&S in Chile faster than expected. Does this mean a quick move into Peru to build or to buy? Is there a possibility of buying into the Colombian market as well?
• Ponto Frio to Pão de Açúcar: Does this change the CE market balance in Brasil? What will happen next? Does this mean that Casino will take a higher profile in managing CBD as they do EXITO in Colombia?
• Mexico, the Peso, and CCM: Will the erosion stop? Due to dependence on the US markets, H1N1 outbreaks, narco-warfare, a zombie retailer (Comercial Mexicana), and the dropping of the peso in international currency—markets inflation and unemployment are starting to become serious problems as well. What do 2010 and 2011 look like in this huge market?
• Carrefour Moves in Market: Latin America has been the most profitable and consistent performer for Carrefour in the past 3 years despite the economic conditions. Will Carrefour move more aggressively in shoring up this key market?