Governance of strategically relevant research in the wholesale and retail sector

Abstract

This paper reports on a comprehensive survey of priority research needs of the South African wholesale and retail sector, with the objective of providing an overview of the most significant research requirements of this significant economic sector. The survey was conducted across a spectrum of sector stakeholders including corporate, independent and informal traders, in all provinces. Survey methodology encompassed a structured priority-rating questionnaire, complemented by dialogic interviews with thought leaders in the sector, and with government and labour union officials. Considering functional areas and Standard Industry Classification divisions, the multiplicity of research problems perceived by industry stakeholders is analysed and distilled into the ‘Top Ten Research Priorities’ for consideration by the retail industry, government policy makers and academic researchers.