CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION OF THE STUDY

The supermarket industry refers to the business of selling raw foodstuffs and similar products in a retail environment. There are a number of different types of businesses within this industry, usually consisting of markets and grocery stores, which can consist of small operations or large corporations with numerous locations. The supermarket industry can be considered a part of the food service industry, though it is often seen as a separate industry since there are a number of considerations supermarkets have to make that are different than running a restaurant or similar establishment. Products offered by supermarkets usually include raw foodstuffs, though prepared foods can also be sold.
In many ways, the modern supermarket industry has grown out of the traditional markets once prevalent in numerous countries. These markets acted as a gathering place for individual merchants, many of whom were selling their own goods. Such markets were often open air establishments in which people could peruse the various fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish available from farmers, butchers, and fishmongers. Many of these same products are offered by the supermarket industry, though the process of acquiring and selling these goods has become more standardized. This industry analysis will show different factors and causes of the competition of supermarket industry in Malolos, Bulacan and will present some factors to consider in starting the better firms through the entire business operation.

1.1 BRIEF BACKGROUND

The competition has raised the bar for supermarket retailers. Perhaps, some have simply lost sight of what the customers needed and wanted. Regardless, today's customers have less time, and are more intelligent, than ever before. Supermarket retailers will continue to face increasing