“I’m concerned for conventional shopping’s future”

Pyramid International’s David Wootliff on the changes happening on the high street.

The retail landscape is ever-changing and that has probably never been more evident than now, and for licensees this presents a whole new set of challenges.

The Source asked some key names how they see the future of licensed product at retail and where potential further growth could come from.

Today: David Wootliff, commercial director, Pyramid International

“With demise of Toys R Us, the closure of Grainger Games and the challenges faced by other traditional bricks and mortar retailers, I have to say that I’m concerned for the future of conventional shopping – that act of walking around, browsing and impulse purchases of licensed goods, especially as a family experience.

I believe distribution will consolidate further. I think discounters will continue to grow and become more key to licensed products and being points of distribution to our consumers. The strength of Amazon will continue and weave further into our lives.

I’m very impressed that fades and crazes still happen and show retailers and consumers that it’s not all about the appeal of the screen, whether it be big or small.”

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