By Annette Shailer

Woolworths has jumped three places to become the 22nd largest retailer in the world, according to the Deloitte 2009 Global Powers of Retailing report.

Coles Group is not far behind, having improved its position by two spots to reach 29th place on the list of the 250 largest retailers globally for the fiscal year 2007.

Both Australian retail giants remained in third and fourth places respectively in the Asia-Pacific top ten.

Wesfarmers moved to fifth place in the Asia-Pacific top ten, following its acquisition of the Coles Group in November 2007.

Deloitte Australia’s consumer business leader, Andrew Griffiths, said the Australian companies’ performance was not a surprise given the tradition of strong retailing culture in the country.

“The markets and the customers strongly value our retailing brands and this is reflected in the report,” Griffiths said.

“To have three companies in the top 40 globally is quite an achievement.” 

The report has coincided with the unveiling of new branding for Woolworths, with its new logo revealed this week.

It signals the start of a six-month process that aims to capitalise on the Woolworths focus on fresh food and quality.

The Shout Team

The leading online news service for Australia's beer, wine, spirits and hospitality industries.

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