Course Calendar:
Session 1 : Introduction & Automatisation | Analyze the podcast:
September 18th, 2025 – morning
“Autonomous Robots in the Grocery Warehouse” (WSJ)
– Understand the challenges of automation in logistics
– Acquire basic vocabulary
Session 2 : Overview of Retail | Analyze the video:
September 18th, 2025 – afternoon
“Retail in the 21st Century” (BRC)
– Understand the major retail trends
– Develop oral comprehension
Session 3 : Disruption by Amazon | Analyze the article:
September 24th, 2025 – morning
“Grocers brace for another blow from Amazon” (WSJ)
– Analyze the impact of Amazon on distribution
– Reinforce written comprehension
Session 4 : Omnichannel Strategy | Analyze the podcast:
September 24th, 2025 – afternoon
“Integrating Retail & Logistics for Successful Omnichannel Retailing” (SMU)
– Understand the challenges of omnichannel retailing
– Apply vocabulary in context
Session 5 : Showrooming Impact | Analyze the podcast:
October 24th, 2025 – morning
“Showrooming and Competing Effects in Shoe Retailing” (SMU)
– Debate the effects of showrooming
– Develop oral argumentation
Session 6 : Urban Delivery | Analyze the podcast:
October 24th, 2025 – afternoon
“Grocery Delivery Wars” (NPR Planet Money)
– Understand urban delivery models
– Compare different strategies
Session 7 : 15-Minute Delivery | Analyze the podcast:
October 31st, 2025 – morning
“The Real Cost of 15-Minute Grocery Delivery” (The Journal, WSJ)
– Analyze the economic and social challenges of rapid delivery
– Express nuanced views
Session 8 : HR Transformation | Analyze the article:
October 31st, 2025 – afternoon
“Retailers Revamp Staffing as Fewer Shoppers Visit Stores” (WSJ)
– Understand the evolution of retail jobs
– Discuss the impact on employees
Session 9 : Mergers and Competition | Analyze the podcast:
December 12th, 2025 – morning
“The Biggest Supermarket Merger That Wasn’t” (The Journal, WSJ)
– Analyze competition challenges in retail
– Summarize complex information
Session 10 : Final Evaluation | Written final exam + Correction and feedback
December 12th, 2025 – afternoon
– Evaluate the knowledge acquired
– Consolidate learning
Syllabus
Course Description:
This course is designed to introduce students to the vocabulary specific to the key concepts of the retail and logistics sectors in English. The objective is to enhance students’ linguistic skills by analyzing authentic documents (articles, podcasts, videos), while reinforcing major grammar rules. Each session focuses on a theme related to distribution, illustrated by a selected media source. The learning process integrates language acquisition with exploration of the professional context, and students will engage in group work, vocabulary acquisition, grammar exercises, and structured discussions.
Objectives:
– Acquire and use English vocabulary specific to retail and supply chain management.
– Improve understanding of oral and written professional documents in English.
– Reinforce the understanding of basic grammar rules in context.
– Develop communication skills (oral and written) in a professional context.
– Gain knowledge about global challenges in distribution and logistics.
Skills targeted by the course:
To acquire and use English vocabulary specific to retail and the supply chain
To improve the understanding of audio and written professional documents in English.
To reinforce the comprehension of basic grammar rules and their application.
To develop oral and written communication competencies in a professional environment.
To acquire cultural and industry knowledge about the global challenges faced by retailers and logisticians.
Evaluation Methods:
Continuous Assessment (60%)
– Group oral presentation : Analyze a subject related to the course, based on supplementary research.
– Online grammar and vocabulary exercises (10%) : Completed throughout the semester.
– Class participation (10%) : Active and relevant contributions to English discussions.
Final Exam (40 %)
The final exam will be an individual in-class written exam, evaluating comprehension of documents and correct use of vocabulary and grammar.
Bibliography:
All course materials are accessible online and include:
– Podcasts from NPR Marketplace and Planet Money
– Articles and audio editions from the Wall Street Journal
– Video from the British Retail Council
– Case studies from the Singapore Management University