Multi-formatted character of the concentration of retail food market in Poland

Abstract

The paper discusses the issue of concentration of the retail food market in Poland. This phenomenon is dominated by the international operators of large-surface networks. However, the entities managing small-format networks are increasingly involved in it. The aim of the study is to identify and assess the multi-format nature of the concentration of this trade. The conducted analysis uses the results of own quantitative and qualitative research on the retail food market. The study includes the figures regarding the market as a whole, the results and data of particular networks and numerical analyses within commercial formats. The paper shows an ongoing process of market concentration with the participation of economic entities managing networks in all commercial formats in the years 2010-2017. Additionally, it was found that the intensity of this phenomenon presents a declining tendency, which results from the diversified structure of the retail food market in Poland.