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.