10 Best Examples of Retailers Making Everyday Shopping Easier For 2025
Last updated: January 23 2025
Nowadays, walking through a bustling marketplace, exploring shelves filled with colorful products, or scrolling through an endless online catalog - these are often our first experiences with retail. Retailers are the bridge between products and consumers, coming in various forms, from small local stores to massive ecommerce platforms.
It's amazing to think I can order almost anything with a few taps on my phone. But even with the convenience of online stores, I still enjoy the experience of walking into a physical shop, browsing the goods, and maybe even chatting with the staff.
So, in this article, we will explore the definition of a retailer, provide examples of retailers, and explain how to become an excellent retailer. Let’s get started!
What Is A Retailer?
At its simplest, a retailer is a business that purchases goods in bulk (often from manufacturers or wholesalers) and then sells them in smaller quantities directly to customers. This bridges the people who make or distribute products and those who want to buy them for personal use.
To think about it in more depth, consider a retailer as a filter: it helps customers find the right products they need by curating a selection, arranging it in a friendly setting (either in a physical store or online), and making the entire buying experience smooth and enjoyable.
For example, consider a grocery store. It doesn't grow fruits or make cereal, but it gathers all these items, organizes them neatly, and ensures shoppers can quickly pick what they want and pay conveniently. This is one of the most common examples of the retail industry, showcasing how retailers make everyday life easier.
What Is the Role of A Retailer?
A retailer plays a vital part in the journey of a product from its source to the end user. Specifically, retailers often:
- Make it easy for customers to find and purchase products.
- Offer a variety of goods in one place.
- Provide helpful guidance, recommendations, and customer service.
- Help customers compare different brands, prices, and product features.
- Ensure products are accessible when and where consumers want them.
In short, a retailer does much more than sell products. It acts as a guide, a curator, and a friendly face that helps customers make confident choices and enjoy their shopping experience. Many retail business examples, from small local shops to large global chains, show the importance of this role.
Examples of Retailers In Different Types of Business
Retailers use various business models to reach their customers. These are primarily categorized into five types: Brick-and-Mortar, E-commerce, Omnichannel, Specialty, and Direct-to-consumer (D2C). Let’s deeply dive into examples of retail companies showcasing diverse customer service approaches.
Brick-and-Mortar Retailers
Brick-and-mortar retailers operate physical stores where customers can browse and purchase products in person. Think of your local grocery store, a favorite clothing boutique, or even a massive department store – these are all examples of brick-and-mortar retailers.
Physical stores often offer immediate product availability and personalized customer service, fostering direct interactions between retailers and consumers. However, maintaining them involves significant overhead costs, including rent, utilities, and staffing.
Successful Case Studies
Walmart: The World’s Largest Retail Chain
- Revenue: $638.78 billion
Founded in 1962, Walmart is the world's largest retailer, with a significant global presence and impressive financial performance. As of October 31, 2024, the company operates over 10,600 stores and clubs in 19 countries, employing approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide, including about 1.6 million in the United States.
In terms of financial performance, Walmart reported revenue of $648.125 billion for fiscal year 2024, a 6.03% increase from the previous year.
Additionally, Walmart's stores attract a substantial customer base, with approximately 255 million weekly visits worldwide in 2024, reflecting its extensive reach and influence in the retail sector.
These statistics underscore Walmart's dominant position in the global retail market, achieved through expansive physical locations, a vast workforce, and consistent revenue growth.
So, Key Lessons From Walmart Case Study
- Cost leadership strategy implementation through efficient supply chain management and bulk purchasing.
- Operating on a large scale reduces costs per unit and provides a competitive edge.
- Technological innovation adoption streamlines operations.
- Customer satisfaction focuses on accessibility, convenience, and affordability.
- Omni-channel retailing approach to diverse shopping preferences.
- Market trend adaptation for sustainability, organic products, and convenience services.
- Commitment to waste reduction, renewable energy, and sustainable sourcing aligns with global expectations.
Target: A Leader in Affordable and Stylish Shopping
- Revenue: $107.57 billion
Target is one of the top retailers in the United States, offering a wide range of products and services. With over 1,950 stores in all 50 states, the retailer received 164.9 million visits in August 2023.
The company employs around 440,000 team members, underscoring its role as a major employer in the retail sector.
Target’s success can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, it offers a diverse product mix that caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. From groceries and household essentials to trendy apparel and home decor, Target truly offers something for everyone.
Moreover, Target has effectively approached the digital age, seamlessly integrating its online and in-store experiences. Their user-friendly website and mobile app allow customers to shop anytime, anywhere, while features like in-store pickup and driver-up service offer added convenience.
So, Key Lessons From the Target Case Study
- “Cheap chic" brand positioning with a taste for style and trends
- In-house brand development with private label success (Cat & Jack, Good & Gather)
- Visually appealing store design for an improved shopping experience
- Localized product assortment to specific demographics and regional preferences
- Data-driven marketing campaigns for specific customer segments
- Supply chain efficiency for inventory management and product availability
Macy’s: Best for Providing Apparel, Accessories, and Home Goods
- Revenue: $23.1 billion
Macy’s is a long-established department store chain with around 700 locations. Best known for its flagship location in New York City’s Herald Square, Macy’s offers a wide selection of apparel, accessories, and home goods.
In the third quarter of 2024, Macy’s reported net sales close to $22.3 billion. It differentiates itself through memorable in-store experiences, seasonal events, and well-known fashion brands.
While maintaining its strong brick-and-mortar presence, Macy's has invested heavily in its online platform, offering a seamless omnichannel experience. Customers can browse and purchase items online, choose in-store pickup options, and even use virtual try-on tools for a more personalized shopping journey.
So, Key Lessons From the Macy Case Study
- Omnichannel integration (online platform, in-store pickup, virtual try-on)
- In-store experience enhancement
- Engaging visual displays
- Interactive experiences
- Personalized services (personal styling, beauty consultations)
- Exclusive events and brand collaborations
- Curated brand selection
E-commerce Retailers
As mentioned above, e-commerce retail is a welcome trend in this day and age. An online business needs to have an attractive, well-designed website platform and a highly reliable e-commerce system for payment, delivery, or delivery services to be high quality. Simultaneously, the online marketing strategy must be effective in attracting customer traffic to the website.
Key features include personalized recommendations, easy price comparisons, and various delivery options. These retailers rely heavily on digital marketing, efficient logistics, and user-friendly platforms to create a smooth and convenient shopping experience.
Successful Case Studies
Amazon: The Global E-Commerce Powerhouse
- Revenue: $574.78 billion
Amazon is one of the most well-known retailers in the world, recognized for its wide range of products, innovative features, and focus on customer satisfaction. Founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994, it began as an online bookstore but quickly grew into a leading e-commerce platform offering everything from electronics and clothing to household items.
By 2023, Amazon's revenue reached $574 billion, an increase from $514 billion in 2022. It dominates the U.S. e-commerce market, holding a 37.6% share, which reinforces its position as a top online retailer. Its influence extends globally, with operations in many countries and millions of customers accessing products through localized websites and international delivery services.
Amazon Prime, the company's subscription program, has over 230 million members worldwide. It offers perks like free shipping, streaming content, and exclusive deals, making it a favorite among shoppers. Moreover, with a global workforce of approximately 1.525 million employees in 2023, Amazon is a significant employer. Its operations span beyond retail to include cloud computing and artificial intelligence, showcasing its ability to innovate and adapt to changing market needs.
So, Key Lessons from the Amazon Case Study
- Proactive customer service, easy returns, customer feedback integration
- Millions of items across diverse categories
- Algorithmic adjustments, competitive price matching
- Fulfillment network optimization
- Private label brand portfolio (Amazon Basics, Amazon Essentials, Solimo
- Content ecosystem expansion (Kindle e-readers, Prime Video streaming, Amazon Music)
- Strategic acquisitions (Whole Foods Market (grocery), Zappos (footwear), Ring (home security)
- Localized websites, fulfillment centers, and product offerings
Etsy: The Go-To Marketplace for Handmade and Vintage Goods
- Revenue: $2.74 billion
Etsy is a famous online retailer where millions of independent creators and small businesses connect with buyers seeking unique, handmade, vintage, and craft items. With over 9 million active sellers and 105 million buyers worldwide, Etsy facilitated over $13.2 billion in sales in 2023 and reached a revenue of $2.74 billion, marking a 7% increase from the previous year.
Notably, approximately 80% of Etsy sellers identify as women, with 97% operating their businesses from home, highlighting the platform's role in empowering female entrepreneurs and supporting home-based businesses.
So, Key Lessons From the Etsy Case Study
- Focusing on unique and handcrafted items, appealing to customers seeking unique, personalized products
- Empowerment of small businesses, many of whom are women or operate from home
- Community-centric approach, emphasizing trust, collaboration, and shared value
- Sustainability commitment, which aligns with the growing consumer demand for eco-conscious products
- User-friendly interface and effective search tools to discover unique items
- Global accessibility for breaking down geographical barriers for small businesses
- Effective marketing strategies to attract buyers
- Adaptability to market trends, such as augmented reality tools for product previews.
Shopify stores: Providing Software Infrastructure and Tools
- Revenue: $70 billion
A Shopify retailer is an entrepreneur or business that uses the Shopify platform to power its online store. Shopify provides the software infrastructure and tools that allow anyone to easily set up and manage an ecommerce website, even with limited technical expertise. In the third quarter of 2024, Shopify facilitated Gross Merchandise Volume (GMV) of nearly $70 billion.
Here are some statistics to illustrate the scope of Shopify retailers:
- Over 4.5 million live websites currently use Shopify.
- Over 170 countries have a Shopify store
- Shopify merchants generated over $444 billion in global economic activity in 2021.
- The top countries for Shopify stores are the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
- The most popular product category on Shopify is apparel.
- Shopify's total revenue in 2023 reached $7.06 billion.
So, Key Lessons From the Shopify Case Study
- Empowerment of entrepreneurship
- Democratization of ecommerce
- Scalable platform for online businesses
- Focus on user experience (UX)
- App store ecosystem for customization
- Mobile-first approach
- Omnichannel selling capabilities
- Data-driven decision-making tools
- Community building and support
- Global reach and expansion
Omnichannel Retailers
I love browsing online, but sometimes I really need to see and touch a product before buying it. That’s where omnichannel retailers shine! Omnichannel retailers integrate online and offline sales channels, allowing customers to shop smoothly across physical stores, websites, and mobile apps.
For example, I might find a cool jacket on a store's website, but I'm not sure about the size or color. So, I check to see if it's available at a nearby store. If it is, I can head over, try it on, and even get advice from a salesperson. And if they don't have my size in-store? No problem! I can order it on my phone and have it shipped home.
Successful Case Studies
Nike: A Trailblazer in Omnichannel Retailing
- Revenue: $51.36 billion
Nike is renowned for its effective omnichannel retail strategy, seamlessly integrating physical and digital platforms to enhance customer experiences. In fiscal year 2024, Nike's direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales accounted for approximately 43% of its total brand revenue, emphasizing engaging customers through multiple channels. This approach is supported by a network of 1,046 retail stores worldwide, which, as of 2024, provide customers with both in-store and online shopping options.
Nike's e-commerce platform, nike.com, has also experienced significant growth, with net sales increasing from $2.38 billion in 2014 to a projected $5.28 billion in 2024.
By leveraging its omnichannel strategy, Nike effectively meets consumer demands for convenience and accessibility, contributing to its position as a leading retailer in the global market.
So, Key Lessons From the Nike Case Study
- Building customer loyalty
- Focusing on customer expectations
- Conveying the Nike story in simple and effective ways
- Collecting customer feedback through surveys, social media, and direct interactions
- Using data to create personalized experiences and engage customers
- Advertising strategy through television ads and other social media forms with affiliate marketing
Best-Buy: Innovating Consumer Electronics Retail
- Revenue: $43.5 billion
Best Buy is a leading consumer electronics retailer in North America, known for its extensive range of products and services. In the fiscal year 2024, the company reported global revenues of approximately $43.5 billion, with over 90% generated in the United States. As of 2023, Best Buy operated over 1,000 stores worldwide, though this number has declined by around 600 since 2012.
Key Lessons from the Best Buy Case Study
- Focused on enhancing customer experience, implementing services like the Geek Squad for in-home consultations and support.
- Price matching strategy to ensure customers receive competitive pricing.
- Omnichannel integration offers services like buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS).
- Investing in employee training and granting autonomy improved customer service quality.
- Strategic cost-cutting measures, including store closures and workforce reductions.
Special Retailers
Some retailers stand out for their unique approaches or product categories, offering specialized goods or innovative business models. These might focus on direct-to-consumer strategies, subscription services, or niche markets.
They often rely on storytelling, distinctive branding, and loyal communities to differentiate themselves and build lasting customer relationships.
Successful Case Studies
Stitch Fix: Designed personalized Items
- Revenue: $1.6 billion (net revenue)
Stitch Fix, an online personal styling service, reported a net revenue of $1.6 billion for the fiscal year 2023, marking a 21% decrease from the previous year. Instead of browsing through a standard online catalog, users complete a style quiz, allowing Stitch Fix’s algorithm and human stylists to select personalized items.
The company also recorded a net loss of $172.0 million and an adjusted EBITDA of $16.8 million. As of July 29, 2023, Stitch Fix had 3,297,000 active clients, a decline of 13% year over year. Revenue per active client was $497, down 9% from the prior year.
Key Lessons from the Stitch Fix Case Study:
- Integration of AI and Human expertise to deliver personalized clothing recommendations
- Data-driven inventory management to reduce unwanted stock and improve operational efficiency
- Focus on personalization, thus increasing customer engagement and loyalty
- Empowerment of the female workforce, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion
Dollar Shave Club: Disrupting Grooming with Subscription Models
- Revenue: $65 million
Founded in 2011, Dollar Shave Club revolutionized the men’s grooming industry by offering affordable, high-quality razors and personal care products through a subscription-based, direct-to-consumer model. By 2015, the company generated approximately $153.5 million in revenue, a significant increase from $65 million in 2014. This rapid growth led to its acquisition by Unilever in 2016 for $1 billion.
Key Lessons from the Dollar Shave Club Case Study:
- Strategic acquisition in attracting major industry players
- Disruptive business model, direct-to-consumer approach
- Use of viral marketing “Our Blades Are F**king Great” to build brand awareness
- Value proposition addressed consumer dissatisfaction with expensive razors
- Leveraging social media and user-generated content fostered a sense of community and customer loyalty
- Brand identity in a distinctive and relatable brand voice resonated with consumers
Glossier: Beauty Brand Using Social Media and Customer Feedback
- Revenue: $1 billion
Glossier is a beauty brand that started online, using social media and customer feedback to guide product development. While private, industry estimates suggest it reached valuations above $1 billion in recent years.
Glossier’s strength lies in user-generated content, Instagram marketing, and a limited but carefully curated product range. By focusing on community, transparency, and an authentic brand message, Glossier built a dedicated following that translates into strong, steady sales.
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) Retailers
DTC retailers sell products directly to customers without relying on traditional intermediaries like wholesalers or third-party stores. This approach allows brands to control the entire customer journey, from product design and pricing to marketing and customer service.
By cutting out middlemen, DTC businesses can often offer more competitive prices, gather direct feedback from shoppers, and quickly adjust their strategies based on consumer behavior. For sellers, choosing the DTC model can mean stronger brand loyalty, better margins, and the flexibility to innovate more rapidly.
Successful Case Studies
Warby Parker: Redefining Eyewear with Direct-to-Consumer Strategy
- Revenue: $192.4 million
Established in 2010, Warby Parker is a leading direct-to-consumer lifestyle retailer focused on providing affordable, high-quality eyewear. As of the third quarter of 2024, the company reported a 13.3% year-over-year increase in net revenue, reaching $192.4 million. Active customers grew by 5.6% to 2.43 million, while the average revenue per customer increased by 7.5% to $305.
The company opened 13 new stores in Q3, bringing its total count to 269, with plans to open 40 stores by year-end. Warby Parker also reported an adjusted EBITDA margin increase to 9.0%, reflecting its focus on profitability. With $251.0 million in cash and cash equivalents, the brand continues to expand its footprint and improve its financial stability.
Key Lessons from the Warby Parker Case Study
- Omnichannel strategy success, like virtual try-ons and home try-on kits alongside physical retail locations
- Customer-centric approach by its growing active customer numbers and increased revenue per customer
- Strategic store expansion while complementing its digital strategy
- Improved adjusted EBITDA margins and reduced GAAP net losses, highlighting the importance of balancing growth with financial discipline
- Operational efficiencies, such as lower outbound shipping costs, efficiencies in optical laboratories, and reduced SG&A expenses
- Social impact initiatives like "Buy a Pair, Give a Pair" reflect the company's commitment
- Data-driven decisions to improve product offerings and optimize its omnichannel strategy
Allbirds: Built for Sustainable Footwear and Apparel Made from Eco-friendly Materials
- Revenue: $187 million
Allbirds built its brand around sustainable footwear and apparel made from eco-friendly materials. Initially sold exclusively online, the company later expanded into brick-and-mortar stores to give customers hands-on product experiences.
In Q3 2024, Allbirds reported roughly $43 million in revenue, supported by loyal followers who value transparency, comfort, and its environmental mission.
Key Lessons From the Allbirds Case Study
- Comfort and minimalist design
- Direct-to-consumer online sales
- "Sustainable sneaker" brand positioning
- Transparency in the supply chain
- Carbon-neutral commitment
- Physical retail expansion
- International market expansion
- Product diversification (apparel, accessories)
- Sustainable material focus (Merino wool, eucalyptus tree fiber)
- Community building through events and partnerships
Casper: Addressing Sleep Problems
- Revenue: $363.07 million
Casper is a sleep company synonymous with the "bed-in-a-box" concept. It started by selling mattresses online, compressed and shipped in conveniently sized boxes. Since then, it has expanded to offer a full range of sleep products, including pillows, bedding, bed frames, and even sleep technology.
This commitment to addressing all aspects of sleep, from comfort to hygiene, has allowed Casper to capture an estimated 4.4% of the US mattress market. While their digital-first approach remains central to their strategy, Casper recognizes the value of an omnichannel presence. They operate 67 retail stores globally and partner with various retailers, ensuring customers can experience their products online and offline.
Despite increasing competition, Casper's dedication to innovation and customer experience, coupled with a strong online presence, attracts an estimated 3.5 million monthly website visits.
Key Lessons From the Casper Case Study
- "Bed-in-a-box" concept
- Direct-to-consumer model
- Focus on sleep solutions
- Innovative mattress design
- Expansion to sleep products
- Omnichannel strategy
- Customer experience focus
- Brand storytelling
- Data-driven product development
A Quick Comparison Between Retail Types
So, let’s explore a quick comparison of some key retail types we’ve discussed:
Retail Type | Examples | Strengths | Weaknesses |
Brick-and-Mortar | Walmart, Target, Macy’s | In-person experience, immediate product access, personal service | High overhead costs (rent, staffing), limited reach |
E-commerce | Amazon, Etsy, Shopify stores | Convenience, wide selection, easy price comparison | Shipping times, no hands-on product experience |
Omnichannel | Nike, Best Buy | Seamless shopping across channels, flexible order fulfillment | Complex coordination between online and offline channels |
Special (Niche) | Stitch Fix, Dollar Shave Club, Glossier | Unique products/services, strong brand communities | Smaller target market, need for strong brand storytelling |
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) | Warby Parker, Allbirds, Casper | Direct connection with customers, controlled pricing and branding | Requires heavy brand-building and marketing efforts |
How to Become a Retailer
Becoming a retailer involves careful planning and clear choices that set the foundation for success.
Step 1: Business Structure
Decide if you’ll build a brand-new store or buy an existing one. Starting fresh offers freedom, while buying established gives you a head start.
- For a new store, you have complete control over branding and product choices.
- If you choose an existing business, carefully assess its reputation and financial health before moving forward.
Step 2: Product Focus
Choose products that meet a real need or spark genuine interest. Research demand, competition, and pricing to guide your selection. Focus on quality and consider whether you can offer something unique that separates you. To reduce risks, please test small batches first before expanding your product line.
Step 3: Location & Platform
Decide where to sell your products—online, in a physical store, or both—by considering convenience, visibility, and customer preferences. If you choose to sell online, create a website that is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and equipped with secure payment options.
For a physical store, prioritize accessibility with convenient parking and an inviting location. Use attractive window displays to draw in foot traffic and make the shopping experience enjoyable. Combining these elements ensures a seamless and engaging experience for your customers, no matter where they shop.
Step 4: Reliable Suppliers
Partner with trustworthy suppliers who deliver quality goods on time. Solid relationships lead to consistent stock and smoother operations. Negotiate fair terms that support long-term growth and stability. Check reviews, request samples, and maintain regular communication to ensure reliability.
Step 5: Customer-Friendly Setup
Make the shopping process simple. Clear navigation, easy checkout, and helpful support all encourage repeat business. Provide timely responses to inquiries and streamline returns or exchanges to build trust. Consider offering multiple payment options and loyalty programs to boost customer satisfaction.
Challenges Facing Retailers
Besides advantages, retailers must respond to multiple pressures that shape how they serve customers and grow their business.
- Balancing Physical and Digital Presences: Offer a consistent experience whether customers shop online or in-store.
- Sustainability Pressures: Align products and practices with eco-friendly standards.
- Personalization & Speed: Tailor recommendations and deliver orders quickly.
- Competitive Pricing & Innovation: Stay ahead of rivals with fair prices and fresh ideas.
- Data Security & Privacy: Protect customer information to maintain trust.
Bottom Line
I hope you find this post on examples of retailers helpful in exploring the many ways businesses connect with customers. Keep these examples in mind as you discover new trends shaping the future of retail!
Retailer Examples: FAQs
After researching and exploring, I’ve compiled a list of the top five retailers worldwide, which will inspire you and provide key lessons.
- Walmart: Known for affordable prices and a wide range of products.
- Amazon: Dominates e-commerce with a vast selection and fast delivery.
- Target: Combines stylish, affordable products with a pleasant shopping experience.
- Costco: A warehouse retailer offering bulk items and memberships.
Home Depot: Focused on home improvement products and DIY tools.
- Brick-and-Mortar: Physical stores such as Walmart and Macy’s, offer an in-person shopping experience.
- E-commerce: Online-only retailers like Amazon and Etsy, provide 24/7 access to products.
- Omnichannel: Retailers such as Nike, blend online and offline channels for a seamless experience.
- Direct-to-Consumer (DTC): Brands like Warby Parker and Allbirds, sell directly to customers without intermediaries.