This is not only an essential resource to new students of retail and merchandising, but is also a must-have guide for entrepreneurs thinking of starting a business. The book offers practical information on everything from store location, layout and design, to merchandise planning, control and pricing, as well as supply chains and how to manage them for maximum returns. It also offers practical advice on how to most effectively use colour and lighting in visual merchandising -- factors critical to the success of any retail enterprise. Established authors in the field have put together a book that emphasises the importance of accurate market research and explains how to go about it in a way that is easy to read and use.