Discusses the internationalization of retail operations within the European Union (EU) and the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Discusses the determining factors behind the internationalization process and the influence this has on the flow of international investment. Places the motivations behind internationalization indicated by the survey results presented within the debate on the internationalization process. Analyses and uses to illustrate these determining factors, the particular experiences and attitudes of UK retailers towards international expansion. As a group, large UK retailers provide an interesting indicator of changing perceptions and underlying factors that determine the nature of international organizational growth and development. The EU and NAFTA provide useful market comparisons when assessing this process. Presents and discusses observable trends and survey results. Considers current and future developments in the internationalization process.