National Retail Census of Product Distribution

The National Retail Census is the only service of its kind, providing updated measurements of product distribution in all types of retail and service outlets in the U.S. It is the largest and most complete source of reliable information on the number and kinds of stores in the country selling various product categories and specific brands. The National Retail Census provides manufacturers with the most accurate measurement of their product penetration and that of their competitors in every type of retail outlet carrying their product category.

Scope

Conducted annually since its inception in 1953
Based on a national probability sample of approximately 30,000 outlets of all kinds throughout the country in more than 500 different geographic areas
Each census tract is completely canvassed to ensure that every retail and service establishment is personally visited
All information is collected by personal store visits making GfK RT USA's Retail Census the largest annual product availability measurement in the nation

Service Features

Total number of retail stores and service outlets by type in the United States
Number of retail stores selling a product category
Percent distribution for each brand in a product category
Product distribution by size, type, flavor or other identifying characteristics
Quality of distribution (based on the percent of the category's volume) for each outlet type selling each brand

Unique Program Benefits

Assess category and brand potential across all meaningful channels of trade
Determine competitive strengths and weakness by channel and by region
Measure trade channels where no other reliable source is available
Allocate sales force and other resources to channels based on measured findings not "guesstimates”
Provide a real-world basis for business and strategic planning
Mine our substantial database available to measure changes in retail environment over time

Geographic Breakdown

Total United States
U.S. Census Divisions and/or Regions
Territories or Areas customized ed to your specifications (sample sizes permitting)

Some of the Outlet Types Reported:

Automotive Retail and Service

Auto Repair
Auto Supply
Car Dealers (New and Used)
Gasoline Stations
Tire Dealers

Eating and Drinking

Bars and Taverns
Restaurants by Type
Fast Food/QSR
Coffee Bars/Shops

Retail Food and Drug

Convenience (Traditional & Petroleum)
Drug
Small Food/Bodegas
Supermarkets

Computer/Electronic

Computer Specialty
Office Supply
Consumer Electronics Video

General Merchandise

Department
Discount/Mass Merchandise
Warehouse Clubs

Hardline Retailers

Hardware
Home Centers

Other Retail and Service

Beauty Salons
Health and Nutrition
Camera
Jewelry
Sporting Goods
Etc. as required

Deliverables

Reports are delivered in both tabular and graphic formats
An Executive Summary and a Detailed Report of Findings are provided
A full analysis of results is prepared and presented, in person, to the client's management team by an experienced GfK RT USA Senior Account Manager