International Search for Distribution Partner Essay

International Search for Distribution Partner - Essay Example As of November 2005 they have 766 stores in the U.S. and 166 in Canada (43 of those Best Buy). On September 22, 2003 they opened their first Global Sourcing Office in Shanghai, China in order to increase their efficiency and improve communication with suppliers. The company, in developing the Asian Market, appointed their Vice-chairman Al Lenzmeier to head up the project. Since 2003 they expanded to include two additional distribution centers in Beijing and Shenzhen. The company recognizes the market potential in China and this spring will open lab stores to rapidly test the Chinese retail market. Store locations will be selected based on area market and competition. They have not yet determined the number of stores to be opened as they employ a "greenfielding strategy, grow by opening stores" ("Our history" 2006). This could be an excellent opportunity for us. The CarreFour Group, established in 1959, is the largest retailer in Europe, the second largest worldwide and the industry leader in nine countries. Their four main store configurations are: 'hypermart', supermarkets, hard discount and convenience stores. They operate a total of 10,378 stores in 29 countries. Their retail sales last year were 88,178 billion euros before tax.