Digital transformation and innovation are key directions for investments in the sector. Most companies in the sector have carried out digitalization, automation, and new service launch projects in recent years. Investments in research and development are still moderate, but they reflect a clear focus on operational efficiency, improving customer experience, and integrating emerging technologies such as AI and IoT. A distinctive feature of the sector is its increasingly visible involvement in social responsibility and sustainability. Companies allocate dedicated budgets for ESG initiatives, particularly in education, environmental protection, support for vulnerable communities, and the circular economy. The community investment market reached 100 million euros annually in 2024, with approximately 20% of this amount coming from the retail sector—clear evidence of its engagement in social development. Initiatives such as Timp pentru Bine, Start ONG, or Via Profi demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusion, education, and support for disadvantaged groups. However, companies in the sector face challenges such as the shortage of skilled labor and the high costs of implementing ESG projects, which drives increased interest in investments in human capital and professional training. Overall, the retail sector (CAEN 4711) is undergoing a profound transformation, shifting from a model focused on quantitative expansion to one oriented toward quality, sustainability, and efficiency. The integration of technology with social and environmental impact reflects the sector’s maturity, as it becomes not only a major economic contributor but also an active player in building a sustainable and inclusive economy. The responses to the questionnaire addressed to both retail and non-retail companies highlight a strong commitment to strategic investment directions focused on digital transformation, sustainability, and operational efficiency. These responses reflect current industry trends and confirm that major retail companies no longer view investments merely as capital expenditures, but as essential tools for modernization, adaptation, and sustainable growth. The commercial markup margin in the sector in 2023 had a reasonable average level of 18.6%, with significant differences between small companies (24.3%) and large companies (17.2%). The operating profit margin in the sector in 2023 had a normal average level of 4.0%, with relatively small differences between small companies (5.8%) and large companies (3.5%). The sector attracts significant investments, with total investments amounting to 3,725 million lei in 2023 (78.5% provided by companies with a turnover exceeding 100 million lei), representing 6.7% of the total assets recorded as of December 31, 2022.
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