Final answer:
Supercenters, often referred to as hypermarkets, are the fastest growing retail category. They provide a wide range of products from groceries to discounted items, all under one roof, allowing for a convenient one-stop shopping experience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fastest growing retail category that combines a supermarket with a full-line discount store and offers a one-stop shopping experience is Supercenters (hypermarkets). These large retail establishments provide a vast array of products across various categories, including dairy, meats, produce, bread, cereals, and much more, similar to major grocery stores organized into departments in the United States. They appeal to consumers looking for the convenience of getting all their shopping done in one place, which can often lead to cost savings and time efficiency.
Supercenters are designed to cater to a broad range of consumer needs, positioning themselves as a competitive force against smaller retailers and specialty stores. The Federal Trade Commission looks at the data on actual competition between businesses to understand these market dynamics. Historical developments such as mail-order houses have also influenced modern retail by expanding consumers' access to a variety of products.