Patricia Cairns

International retail divestment activity

Purpose – The research presented here initiates the process of the detailed analysis of international retail divestment activity through the identification of the volume of global divestment activity and the characteristics of that activity during the timeframe of 1987‐2003.Design/methodology/approach – The methodology followed here is essentially historical in nature and draws on a wide range of contemporary periodicals, reports and other sources.Findings – The paper reports findings on: the form and extent of divestment activity; the year of divestment; divestment by retail sub‐sector; divested chain size; length of time spent in the market of divestment; divestment by retail sub‐sector; and the market of origin of divesting retailer.Originality/value – This paper provides an initial indication of the volume and nature of international retail divestment in the period considered. Such material has not been available previously. International retailing research has primarily focused on the internationalis...

Understanding the International Retail Divestment Process

This paper focuses on the international retail divestment process. Using a qualitative methodological approach the paper presents findings that facilitate a stage‐by‐stage consideration of the process. Interviews with current and ex‐employees, all senior managers, provide insights into the most important considerations, decisions and outcomes at different stages in the divestment process. By using this approach it has been possible to build up a complete picture of the process and has avoided an emphasis being placed on only one stage of divestment activity.

The Role of Leadership in International Retail Divestment

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the role played by leadership in divestment decision making and indeed during the corporate restructuring phase for retail organisations. In doing so, the paper aims to contribute to a growing body of research that seeks to develop understanding of the factors leading to retail divestment and the nature of corporate response to divestment.Design/methodology/approach – A multiple case approach is utilised. The cases are selected from a database of international retail divestment activity over a longitudinal period.Findings – The paper demonstrates that divestment can be a response to “failure”, however, support is also provided for the assertion that divestment can be a strategic decision to devote resources more efficiently elsewhere, either at home or abroad. A key finding is the role of leadership and managerial stability in relation to divestment and restructuring at home and abroad.Research limitations/implications – The themes presented in this paper ...