In this book, Philippe Moati reviews the development of large-scale distribution during the three decades of prosperity that followed World War II and the economic crisis that succeeded them. Having established the historical background, he then tackles the issues that lie at the heart of his book. He analyses the problems encountered by large-scale distribution today and examines the development strategies that are currently being put into practice. He also wonders whether the role that will be played by commerce in the current phase of economic growth will be essentially financial, or whether businesses will continue to awaken consumer desire and so to play a part in creating demand. Finally, he studies the challenges posed by the electronic business.

Philippe Moati teaches economics at the University of Paris-VII and is a director of research at CREDOC.