This is a best prospect industry sector for this country. Includes a market overview and trade data.
Overview
According to data from the Central Bank of Armenia
Armenia’s retail market is shifting rapidly to modern formats. About 80 percent of the country’s retail sales occur in Yerevan where shoppers spend almost $100 million monthly on consumer goods, primarily food. Home improvement, clothing, and furniture are the top non-food categories. Armenia ranks between its neighboring countries on retail trade share of GDP, higher than Turkey but lower than Georgia.
The growth in retail is supported by the consumption-driven nature of the Armenian economy as well as readily available consumer financing from banks. The expansion of logistical services will support the continued growth of local retail and is expected to broaden the Armenian market of consumers.
Leading Sub-Sectors
Food retail comprises a significant share of total retail turnover. Building materials, textiles, clothing, and furniture dominate the non-food retail segments.
Retail trade is moving from small and medium stores to large trade centers, including supermarkets. Currently, there are several malls and large stores operating in Yerevan involved in the sale of food and consumer products. Supermarkets are the most frequently used stores for fast moving consumer goods purchases in Yerevan, with nearly 400,000 customers daily. Purchases at large supermarkets represent nearly half of the fast-moving consumer goods trade in Yerevan. The first large modern shopping center, Dalma Mall, opened in 2013. Yerevan Mall opened in February 2014; its major tenants include Inditex Group brands and a Carrefour supermarket, which made its entry into Armenia after working to do so for several years. This development is a
The growing number of western franchises in Armenia and the prevalence of copycat shops and restaurants—together with a general premium on name recognition—suggest that U.S. franchises could be successful, especially in Yerevan. Despite generally low incomes in Armenia
Opportunities
Well-known western franchises, particularly restaurants, are in demand in Armenia and the sector is showing signs of growth. Name-brand U.S. fast food franchises are a common and growing sight in Yerevan. Yerevan has seen an explosion of other dining options in recent years. Several U.S. and international brands have successfully operated franchise businesses, including KFC, Pizza Hut, Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, and Radisson, along with a variety of local franchises in food, retail, services, and other industries. High-priced dining establishments are also finding increased success.
Resources
- Ministry of Economy
- Armenian National Interests Fund (ANIF)
- Enterprise Armenia
- Statistical Committee of the Republic of Armenia
- UNCTAD Investment Policy Review of Armenia
- WTO Trade Policy Review: Armenia 2018
- American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia
- Spyur Information System