Consumer and retail businesses in Brazil can anticipate a promising future. Employment rates and consumer groups are growing, while political risk, economic uncertainty and inflation continue to stabilize. Overall, the retail market grew by 15.7% in 2009; slightly over the 14% forecast growth. The segments presenting the highest growth were automobiles, at a record 32%, furniture and domestic appliances (25%), clothing and shoes (16%), tobacco and beverages (15.5%) and pharmaceutical and cosmetic items (15%).
Boosted by an increase in the level of salaries and a reduction in unemployment, the retail segment in Brazil avoided the effects of a stronger negative GDP brought about by the reduction in exports and foreign direct investment in the country. The emergence of the C SES level, those who receive a maximum of US$2,700 per month, was and still is one of the main pillars of such growth. This group now receives 46% of all salaries paid, against only 37% in 2003.
The rise of Brazil retail market