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Commentary and Discussion From the Retail Community
Target makes it easier for customers to stay in their cars
Target’s customers will be able to return most new, unopened items within 90 days of purchase. Customers buying Target-owned brands will be able to make returns for up to a…
Why data analytics teams must speak retail
A risk-averse culture with unclear goals and some employees considering their work as “more art than science” are also inhibitors.
Must-have tech for independent supermarkets
Bill Lipsky of UNFI said that more than anything else, independents must own the relationship with the shopper and should ask for help from wholesalers to make it happen.
Will Amazon Go ever get going?
Amazon.com announced last week that it plans to permanently close eight of its 28 Amazon Go convenience stores. The first Go opened in January 2018 and featured the debut of…
RFID was made for BOPIS
Based on discussions at the recent NRF Big Show, RFID is not at the tipping point but is certainly still on an upward adoption trend.
When will Best Buy’s sales recover?
Best Buy last week forecast sales would decline three-to-six percent in 2023 amid macroeconomic pressures. The chain reported a 10.3 decline in 2022.
‘All you need is love, love, love’ to work at Trader Joe’s
“We can kind of teach the crew to run register and stock shelves. That kind of stuff is not what’s important. What’s important is if you really like people.” How…
Why did Nordstrom fail in Canada?
Nordstrom has decided to shutter its small base of stores in Canada, making it the latest U.S.-based retailer to face a chilly reception after expanding up north, joining previous U.S.-based…
Do grocers need a fresh approach to boost online sales of meat and produce?
More than half of shoppers (54 percent) shop for meat, chicken, or fish primarily in physical stores, according to a PYMNTS survey. Does the need for speed make it difficult…
Are grocers under-marketing their store brands?
While grocers have earned credit for upgrading the quality and branding of their private labels, a new study finds store brands receive little marketing support. The study comes as reports…
Will Target’s ‘commitment to newness’ continue to drive growth?
Target’s fourth quarter was not as strong as Brian Cornell and company would have liked, but the retailer did post its twenty-third straight quarterly same-store sales gains. He pointed to…
Inflation gives Americans another reason to cook at home
Domino’s Pizza last week said its research shows, to avoid delivery costs, more customers prepare meals during inflationary times rather than order pizza. Will high inflation, including grocery, contribute more…
Will new laws check self-checkout growth?
Grocery self-checkout has long had its detractors, and the technology could soon face legal hurdles that may affect how stores use it. What do you think of the proposed limit…
Do sensible retailing principles make for ‘boring’ bookstores?
James Daunt made Waterstones the largest bookstore chain in the UK and has brought about a turnaround at Barnes & Noble. How did he do it? Apparently, by getting rid of…
Albertsons links grocery discounts to healthy habits
Albertsons has introduced a digital health and wellness platform that enables customers to track their health and wellness goals and receive rewards, including grocery discounts, for surpassing them. How much…
Should all employees – not just IT – be driving digital investments?
A Microsoft survey finds employees looking for a greater say when it comes to new technology investments and initiatives driving digital transformation efforts. Should employees have more say when it…
Victoria’s Secret’s rebranding effort adds an inclusive rewards program
Victoria’s Secret & Co. last week said it was launching “The VS & PINK Collective,” a pilot of its first loyalty program that gives Victoria’s Secret and Pink customers an…
Are grocers missing the mark with urban consumers?
Food shopping options for downtowners can be downright dismal. Patricia Waldron is a center city dweller and feels fortunate to have a great Ralph’s in her neighborhood, but before the…
Should retailers open stores in malls or look outside for better results?
Bath & Body Works, among several chains reorienting their footprint away from malls, added 95 off-mall North American stores in 2022 and plans to open approximately 90 more in 2023…
Where should retailers start with ‘generative’ AI?
Amazon is believed to be behind the “generative” AI race between Microsoft and Google, which hosted media events in early February highlighting their generative AI technology. What advice would you have…
Amazon is trying to grow its clout in the same-day delivery market
A new report says Amazon intends to become a significant force in same-day deliveries. How close it is to achieving that goal may surprise a few. Will same-day deliveries in…
