required report public distribution date 11 9 2004 gain number gm4044 germany retail food sector approved by karina ramos us embassy prepared christel e wagner highlights although s stagnant economy has affected sales including of products data indicates that real may be recovering in 2003 total turnover retailers and beverage was euro 123 4 billion or 139 6 compared to 120 5 113 2002 combined with the small price deflation for this represents an almost 2 percent increase after several years relatively flat growth despite slower discount segment it will remain important driver future german includes psd changes no trade matrix annual berlin gm1 gm i market summary profile 3 table composition advantages opportunities challenges facing ii road map entry traditional outlets supermarkets superstores hyper markets super centers club warehouse