Variations in Russian retail market

According to a report released by market intelligence company PMR on Russia´s retail sector, the Central Federal District is clearly in the lead representing 36 percent of the country´s retail market doubling the second largest district Volga, which accounted for 17 percent of the market. However, the district´s performance is due to the Russian giant Moscow which accounts for more than half of the region´s retail sales. Meanwhile the Far Eastern Federal District only represents a scarce 4.2 percent, making it the smallest retail market in Russia. Nevertheless, the region´s underdevelopment has brought it to show one of highest growth rates in 2015 managing to achieve an increase of 20.6 percent. The Central Federal District is also the focal point for companies investing and expanding in Russia and is ground zero for new brands entering the country´s market. At the same time the region has the lowest unemployment rate along with the highest monthly incomes and population density in the country. PMR´s report „Retail in Russia 2016 - Regional focus.“ offers further detail on the matter, providing the latest sales data and merger acquisition details along with profiles of the leading chain retailers active on the market.