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Should Department Stores Offer a VIP Experience?
When it comes to department stores, just 1% of the highest spenders contribute to around 25% of sales, while the top 20% of spenders are responsible for 80% of the…
Is Walmart Building a Moat in E-Grocery?
Walmart captured a record 37% of the U.S. online grocery market during the second quarter of 2024, steadily expanding its share in recent years as traditional supermarkets lose ground. What’s…
Will the New Starbucks CEO Improve the Coffee Retailer’s Performance?
Starbucks has appointed Brian Niccol as its new chairman and CEO, replacing Laxman Narasimhan, who is stepping down immediately. What key strategies might Niccol introduce to address Starbucks’ recent sales…
Do Dogs Need a $108 Perfume?
In another example of pet pampering perhaps going too far, Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana has launched an alcohol-free fragrance mist for dogs called “Fefé” in honor of co-founder…
Are Customer Loyalty Programs the Best Method for Retention?
Customer loyalty programs are proving to be a decisive force in the retail industry. As they evolve, how should businesses adjust their strategies to attract new customers while ensuring long-term…
Is ‘Artificial Intelligence’ a Consumer Turnoff?
A new study finds that the words “artificial intelligence” in marketing cause many consumers to have a negative opinion of the product. How do you see consumers’ comfort with AI…
Is Bargain Hunting Enough To Keep Big Lots Afloat?
Big Lots is on the verge of bankruptcy. Given the success of competitors like Ollie’s Bargain Outlet and TJX, what strategies have they implemented that Big Lots could adopt to…
Is Nike’s Olympic Campaign Inspiring or Toxic?
Nike’s Olympics ad, “Winning Isn’t for Everyone,” has proved divisive, with fans praising the message around grit and determination and critics calling out its ruthlessness and disrespect of sportsmanship. Will…
At What Point Does Loss Prevention Cross Into Sales Prevention?
Retailers faced with rising rates of shoplifting are being forced to take action. Are there any retailers who are handling it correctly?
Is Ace Hardware’s New Store Model a Good Concept?
Ace Hardware is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024 with an expansion and a new store concept. Will the integration of experiential elements become a new standard for retailers looking…
Will Scanning Cards To Enter Costco Annoy Members?
In another attempt to crack down on membership sharing and nonmember walk-ins, Costco will soon require shoppers to scan their membership cards before entering. Will this improve the checkout process?
Should Wayfair Open More Physical Stores?
Wayfair has opened its first physical store at Edens Plaza in Wilmette, Illinois. What strategic adjustments are essential for Wayfair to stay competitive and profitable in the evolving home furnishings…
Is Free BOPIS Worth It for Grocers?
A university study concludes that the common grocer offering of BOPIS (buy online, pick up in-store) for free is a money loser given the significant labor requirements. Do you agree…
Can Instacart’s Efforts Help the Company Overtake the Competition?
Instacart has been making significant moves in the grocery delivery market. But will they pay off?
Should Brands Stay Apolitical in a Presidential Election Year?
As the presidential election draws closer, brands are deciding whether or not to stay apolitical. Has it become riskier for corporations to take political stands?
Should Delta Recoup Losses From CrowdStrike and Microsoft After the Recent Tech Outage?
After taking a nosedive in the eyes of thousands of customers who were left stranded at airports due to a tech outage, Delta is threatening litigation against CrowdStrike and Microsoft…
What Might Be in Store for Google After the Monopolist Ruling?
Google has been declared a monopolist, but how will the company be affected?
Will Advanced AI Step Up Amazon’s Just Walk Out Technology?
Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology received an upgrade with advanced artificial intelligence technology promising to significantly improve accuracy. What questions do you still have about Just Walk Out’s scalability?
Will POP MART Be at the Top of the Art Gallery-Style Retail Format?
POP MART has opened its first-ever physical store location in the Louvre. How does incorporating high-end and nostalgic toys into prestigious locations like the Louvre impact perceptions of luxury and…
Is Accepting Amazon Returns Paying Off for Stores?
A Washington Post article claims programs enabling Amazon customers to return merchandise to Kohl’s, Staples, Whole Foods, Amazon Fresh, and The UPS Store locations for free are “turning store associates’…
How Much of an Impact Will AI Have on Fast Food?
AI is becoming more prevalent in the fast-food industry and shows no signs of slowing down. What should companies prioritize to ensure AI enhances efficiency while meeting customer expectations and…
