3 credit(s) This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the forces that shape the retail industry. What are the demographic, economic, competitive and technological developments that are transforming the marketplace? How do these parameters impact consumer behavior? Consequently, how do they impact the effectiveness of retailers· business models? Retailing is totally reconfigured by new entrants and the use of technology. What defines success for these new entrants and what are their long-term prospects? What defined failure for retailers that once dominated the marketplace?