Key Insights
The global department store market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025 (assuming a reasonable market size based on comparable retail sectors and the provided CAGR), is projected to experience robust growth with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 6.00% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing preference for curated shopping experiences, offering a blend of product variety and personalized service, continues to attract consumers. Furthermore, strategic investments in omnichannel strategies, seamlessly integrating online and offline retail, are enhancing customer engagement and driving sales. The rise of experiential retail, with department stores incorporating restaurants, entertainment venues, and personalized styling services, is another significant factor contributing to market growth. However, the market faces challenges such as intense competition from e-commerce giants and discount retailers, necessitating continuous innovation and adaptation to retain market share. The changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics who favor online shopping and specialized boutiques, also pose a significant restraint.
The market segmentation reveals a diverse landscape, with varying performance across different product categories and geographic regions. While established players like Marks & Spencer, Macy's, and Walmart maintain significant market presence, the emergence of innovative business models and digitally native brands is reshaping competitive dynamics. Regional variations in market growth will likely be influenced by factors such as economic development, consumer spending patterns, and government regulations. North America and Europe are anticipated to dominate the market in the forecast period, although the Asia-Pacific region is poised for considerable expansion driven by rising disposable incomes and urbanization. Success in this evolving market requires a focus on delivering a compelling value proposition, optimizing the customer journey across all channels, and leveraging data-driven insights to personalize the shopping experience. Companies are actively investing in supply chain optimization and sustainability initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Department Stores Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global Department Stores Market, covering historical performance (2019-2024), the current state (2025), and future projections (2025-2033). The study meticulously examines market dynamics, key players, emerging trends, and growth opportunities, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders across the retail landscape. This report is essential for businesses, investors, and researchers seeking to understand the complexities and future trajectory of the department store industry. The report includes detailed analyses of market concentration, segmentation, and competitive landscapes, supplemented with actionable insights and strategic recommendations. The global market size is estimated at xx Million in 2025, with a projected CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.

Department Stores Market Concentration & Dynamics
The Department Stores Market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with a few dominant players commanding significant market share. However, the presence of numerous regional and niche players contributes to a dynamic competitive environment. Market share data for 2025 reveals that Walmart Inc. holds the largest share, followed by Macy's Inc. and Target Corporation. Other key players include Marks and Spencer Group Plc, Nordstrom Inc., Sears Holdings Corp, Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd, Kohl's Corporation, Chongqing Department Store Co Ltd, and Lotte Department Store. The market is influenced by several factors:
- Innovation Ecosystems: Department stores are constantly adapting to incorporate new technologies, such as omnichannel strategies, personalized shopping experiences, and data-driven inventory management.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Government regulations regarding retail practices, consumer protection, and environmental sustainability significantly impact the industry's operations.
- Substitute Products: The rise of e-commerce and online retailers poses a significant competitive threat, acting as a substitute for traditional department stores.
- End-User Trends: Changing consumer preferences, including a growing demand for personalized experiences and sustainable products, are reshaping the department store landscape.
- M&A Activities: Mergers and acquisitions are common, with larger players seeking to expand their market share and diversify their product offerings. The number of M&A deals in the period 2019-2024 totalled approximately xx, indicating a significant level of consolidation.
Department Stores Market Industry Insights & Trends
The Department Stores Market experienced a period of transformation during the study period (2019-2024), marked by significant shifts in consumer behavior and technological advancements. The market size in 2024 stood at xx Million, reflecting the challenges faced by traditional retailers. However, strategic initiatives focused on omnichannel integration and enhanced customer experiences are driving growth. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2025. This growth is fueled by various factors:
- Market Growth Drivers: The increasing disposable incomes in developing economies and the growth of online shopping are significant drivers.
- Technological Disruptions: E-commerce, mobile commerce, and the adoption of advanced analytics are transforming operations and customer engagement.
- Evolving Consumer Behaviors: Consumers are increasingly seeking personalized shopping experiences, convenience, and value for money, compelling department stores to adapt.

Key Markets & Segments Leading Department Stores Market
The North American region holds a dominant position in the Department Stores Market, driven primarily by the large consumer base and well-established retail infrastructure. Within North America, the United States is the largest market, with a significant contribution to the overall market size.
- Drivers for North American Dominance:
- Strong consumer spending
- Robust retail infrastructure
- High adoption of online shopping
- Presence of major department store chains
The dominance of North America is further consolidated by the presence of major players such as Macy's, Target, Nordstrom, and Walmart, whose extensive networks, brand recognition, and sophisticated omnichannel strategies solidify their market positions. While other regions show growth potential, North America's mature market, strong economy, and entrenched players maintain its leadership role.
Department Stores Market Product Developments
Product innovation in the department store sector focuses on expanding product assortments, enhancing quality, and promoting private labels. Technological advancements are driving personalization, improving supply chain efficiency, and enabling data-driven decision-making. The introduction of new technologies and innovations leads to a competitive edge by enhancing customer experience, improving efficiency, and expanding market reach.
Challenges in the Department Stores Market Market
The Department Stores Market faces several challenges. These include intense competition from e-commerce platforms, changing consumer preferences, rising operational costs, and supply chain disruptions. The impact of these challenges can be seen in reduced profit margins and slower market growth in certain segments. The increasing preference for online shopping poses a major threat to the traditional department store model.
Forces Driving Department Stores Market Growth
The Department Stores Market is driven by several factors. Technological advancements, like omnichannel retailing and personalized shopping, are enhancing customer experiences and increasing efficiency. Economic growth, particularly in developing economies, is boosting consumer spending and expanding the market. Favorable government policies and regulations also support the sector’s growth.
Challenges in the Department Stores Market Market
Long-term growth catalysts include strategic partnerships to expand product offerings and improve supply chain efficiency, investments in technology to personalize the customer experience, and expansion into new markets to diversify revenue streams. Further, a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing can attract environmentally and socially conscious consumers.
Emerging Opportunities in Department Stores Market
Emerging opportunities include the expansion into new markets, particularly in developing economies with growing middle classes. The development of sustainable and ethical product lines aligns with growing consumer preferences. Further leveraging data analytics for personalized marketing and improved inventory management presents significant opportunities.
Leading Players in the Department Stores Market Sector
- Marks and Spencer Group Plc
- Macy's Inc
- Sears Holdings Corp
- Target Corporation
- Nordstrom Inc
- Walmart Inc
- Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd
- Kohl's Corporation
- Chongqing Department Store Co Ltd
- Lotte Department Store
Key Milestones in Department Stores Market Industry
- January 2023: Marks and Spencer announced a nearly half-a-billion investment in upgrading stores across the UK, creating over 3,400 jobs. This signifies a commitment to revitalizing the physical retail experience.
- February 2023: Macy's launched PATTERN Beauty, expanding its hair care product portfolio and showcasing its ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and partner with innovative brands.
Strategic Outlook for Department Stores Market Market
The Department Stores Market holds significant future potential, driven by continued technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and strategic partnerships. By embracing omnichannel strategies, investing in data analytics, and focusing on sustainability and personalization, department stores can capture significant market share and unlock long-term growth opportunities. Expanding into underserved markets and developing innovative product lines will also be crucial for future success.
Department Stores Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 1.2. FMCG
- 1.3. Hardline and Softline
Department Stores Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. U
-
2. Canada
- 2.1. Rest of North America
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. Germany
- 3.2. France
- 3.3. Italy
- 3.4. U
-
4. Spain
- 4.1. Rest of Europe
-
5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. China
- 5.2. Japan
- 5.3. South Korea
- 5.4. India
- 5.5. Australia
- 5.6. Rest of Asia Pacific
-
6. Middle East and Africa
- 6.1. Saudi Arab
- 6.2. South Africa
- 6.3. UAE
- 6.4. Rest of Middle East and Africa
-
7. South America
- 7.1. Brazil
- 7.2. Mexico
- 7.3. Rest of South America

Department Stores Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 6.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increase in Retail E-Commerce Sales have the Negative Impact on Department Stores Market
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 5.1.2. FMCG
- 5.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. Canada
- 5.2.3. Europe
- 5.2.4. Spain
- 5.2.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.2.6. Middle East and Africa
- 5.2.7. South America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. North America Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 6.1.2. FMCG
- 6.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7. Canada Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 7.1.2. FMCG
- 7.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8. Europe Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 8.1.2. FMCG
- 8.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9. Spain Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 9.1.2. FMCG
- 9.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 10. Asia Pacific Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 10.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 10.1.2. FMCG
- 10.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 11. Middle East and Africa Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 11.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 11.1.2. FMCG
- 11.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 12. South America Department Stores Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 12.1.1. Apparel and Accessories
- 12.1.2. FMCG
- 12.1.3. Hardline and Softline
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Marks and Spencer Group Plc
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Macy's Inc
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Sears Holdings Corp
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Target Corporation
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Nordstrom Inc
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Walmart Inc
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Kohl's Corporation
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Chongqing Department Store Co Ltd
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Lotte Department Store**List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Marks and Spencer Group Plc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: North America Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: North America Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Canada Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Canada Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Canada Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Canada Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Europe Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Europe Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: Europe Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: Europe Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Spain Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Spain Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Spain Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Spain Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Asia Pacific Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Asia Pacific Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Middle East and Africa Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Middle East and Africa Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Middle East and Africa Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Middle East and Africa Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 26: South America Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 27: South America Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 28: South America Department Stores Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 29: South America Department Stores Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: U Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Rest of North America Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Germany Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: France Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Italy Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: U Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Rest of Europe Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: China Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Japan Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: South Korea Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: India Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Australia Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Rest of Asia Pacific Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Saudi Arab Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: South Africa Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: UAE Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Rest of Middle East and Africa Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Global Department Stores Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Brazil Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Mexico Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Rest of South America Department Stores Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Department Stores Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 6.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Department Stores Market?
Key companies in the market include Marks and Spencer Group Plc, Macy's Inc, Sears Holdings Corp, Target Corporation, Nordstrom Inc, Walmart Inc, Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd, Kohl's Corporation, Chongqing Department Store Co Ltd, Lotte Department Store**List Not Exhaustive.
3. What are the main segments of the Department Stores Market?
The market segments include Product Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increase in Retail E-Commerce Sales have the Negative Impact on Department Stores Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
February 2023: Macy's launches PATTERN Beauty with the brand's extensive assortment of washes, treatments, styling tools, and more. As the brand's first-ever department store partner, PATTERN expands Macy's portfolio of hair care products, specifically in the curl category.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Department Stores Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Department Stores Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Department Stores Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Department Stores Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence