Retail market growth points discussed at Prodexpo 2025
The Plenary Session on a New Quality of Interaction: Growth Points in a Multiformat Environment took place within the conference programme of Prodexpo 2025. The event was organised by Roskachestvo – the Russian Quality System and EXPOCENTRE AO, and moderated by Yulia Mikhaleva, Deputy Head at Roskachestvo. Key speakers included Roman Chekushov, State Secretary and Russian Deputy Minister of Industry, Maxim Protasov, Head at Roskachevo, various business representatives and industry experts.
The participants discussed the transformation of the retail market, which had undergone rapid changes in recent years and entered a new phase of smooth development. Experts noted that new trade formats and omnichannel require a systematic approach to quality control and optimisation of internal business processes.
Roman Chekushov emphasised that product quality requirements should be observed regardless of sales channels. He noted the great work of Roskachchestvo in the area of product testing and drew attention to the need to optimise business processes at all stages from the manufacturer to the end consumer.
Maxim Protasov spoke about the role of trust as one of the key factors of economic growth. He cited research data, according to which an increase in trust by 10% contributes to GDP growth by 21%. Roskachestvo is actively implementing approaches based on trust in consumers and businesses. For example, amendments to federal legislation are aimed at raising certification standards in the segment of eco- and bio-products, which contributes to building trust in these categories of goods.
Among the discussed trends, experts noted the growing popularity of convenience stores and online shopping, which are actively replacing hypermarkets and traditional retail. Customers increasingly prefer to make quick purchases close to home, and the expansion of online platforms offers the possibility of round-the-clock access to goods and services. As a result, large retail chains are optimising their formats, focusing on developing smaller shops and strengthening digital sales channels.
Personalisation of the shopping experience is also becoming important. The modern consumer expects not only convenience and speed of shopping, but also the ability to fulfil their needs in one place: to shop, buy coffee, charge a gadget, have a snack. Thus, the shop format is no longer a determining factor, giving way to comprehensive satisfaction of needs.
Rationalisation of consumption is one more important trend. Consumers are looking for quality products at affordable prices, which encourages manufacturers and retailers to develop more favourable offers without compromising on product quality. In parallel, demand is growing for functional and specialised products such as vegan and gluten-free food, plant-based alternatives to dairy products and ready meals that save time on cooking.
The shift in generational structure is having a noticeable impact on the market. In 10 years' time, a significant proportion of active shoppers will be Generation Z, for whom digital channels and personalised shopping will be key requirements. Businesses will have to adapt their strategies to meet the expectations of this technology-centric audience.
Finally, the labour market is also changing. Today's employees are increasingly choosing employers willing to offer flexible schedules, comfortable working conditions and additional social benefits. Companies seeking to maintain staff stability are reviewing their internal processes and introducing programmes aimed at improving working conditions and professional development of employees.
Watch the stream at https://vkvideo.ru/video-174608010_456239336
Press Service, EXPOCENTRE AO
