IGDS was founded in 1946 in Switzerland by eight European Department Stores, willing to develop common synergies. Our group is a non-profit organisation, and the cooperation between members is based on voluntary partnership, mutual interest, and mutual trust.

Department Stores offer a unique human and sensory expertise based on great brands, animation, and services. Our mission is to meet and exceed a customer's desire for quality, surprise, discovery, and pleasure. We, as an association, are convinced that our commitment to provide a unique and entertaining shopping experience is more relevant than ever in the current environment.