Integrated trade
Integrated Commerce is distinguished by a model where the points of sale, called branches, are owned and controlled by a single company. Unlike independent traders in cooperatives, branch managers are employees of the owner company.
Features of Integrated Trade
- Sole Ownership : Outlets are owned by a single company, which directly controls and manages all operations.
- Centralized management : Strategic decisions, purchasing, marketing, and human resources management are centralized, allowing for consistency and coherence across the entire network.
- Rapid expansion : This model allows for rapid expansion and rigorous control over the quality and image of the brand.
Benefits of Integrated Trade
- Full Control : The owning company has full control over all aspects of the outlets, ensuring standardization of products and services.
- Operational efficiency : Centralization of functions enables economies of scale and increased operational efficiency.
Challenges of Integrated Trade
- Limited flexibility : Branches must follow the parent company’s guidelines, which may limit their ability to adapt quickly to local specificities.
- High costs : The company must bear all costs associated with managing branches, including salaries, training, and infrastructure investments.
Please note that the branch director may have the status of branch manager (art L 7321-2 of the labor code).
