IFH KÖLN offers analyses and strategic advice for retailers, wholesalers and the supplying industry – always relying on their profound data and sector knowledge. IFH KÖLN provides individual solutions or proven-and-tested sector-specific know-how. IFH KÖLN databases and tailor-made projects support clients in preparing and justifying management decisions.
Easy Engineering: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
IFH KÖLN: There are three main areas of activities:
Surveys and market data
The market research of IFH KÖLN has established a unique database. Our surveys provide you with detailed insights. We use market analyses and profound research to record trends, consumer behaviour and market developments. We constantly monitor 60 consumer markets and more than 500 product groups which is why we can deliver relevant market data to address specific issues.
Presentations and workshops
You can also benefit from our extensive knowledge portfolio. IFH KÖLN experts are delighted to present survey findings and market trends at individual workshops, or to deliver interesting presentations to your conference or customer event.
Networks
Thanks to our expertise in retail since 1929 we have established a high-calibre network covering retail, industrial and service sectors. At our events we connect people and let them benefit from our market insights and our interesting community by giving unique opportunities for exclusive networking during informal discussions among co-workers.
E.E: What’s the news for 2020 about new research?
IFH KÖLN: Almost all research and consulting are done online. Also, focus groups and Roundtables with experts are now conducted online as well.
Our research in 2020 has mainly dealt with Coronavirus which had huge impacts on the international retail world and for dynamics on individual markets.
E.E: What are the ranges of traded products?
IFH KÖLN: Except for our studies and our ECC CLUB (exclusive membership program), we basically offer our customers individual services such as consulting and individual market research. Moreover, we support retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers with our research and consultancy in order to optimise their marketing and sales in the digital age.
E.E: At what stage is the market where you are currently active?
IFH KÖLN: Covid-19 has boosted digitalisation within most German industries.
During and after shutdown, retailers were forced to use digital channels to stay in touch with their customers. Performances of categories differ significantly. For instance, some revenues of companies in DIY, FMCG or sports have increased considerably. All in all, 2020 caused big losses for the majority of the economy, but E-commerce is a winning market which grows faster than ever.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
IFH KÖLN: Is all about digitalisation. Marketing and sales are shifting online with high speed and organisations are working with more agility than before the crisis.
E.E: What are the most innovative products marketed?
IFH KÖLN: We have started a lot of innovative events such as our ”Retailhack”, a hackathon in which we have united retailers and solution providers in an unprecedented way in order to figure out ways out of the crisis and solutions for companies post Covid-19.
Executive roundtables, as well as large congresses, were held online or in a hybrid format which was a whole new experience for us, but we have accomplished the challenge.
E.E: What estimations do you have for 2020?
IFH KÖLN: There is a great uncertainty about the economic impacts of Covid-19, but we are confident in our offerings because they cover the currently most important topics like digitalisation and structural change.