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Commentary and Discussion From the Retail Community
Target Returns to Canada With Private Label Kids Line
Target has agreed to distribute its Cat & Jack private label children’s apparel brand inside Hudson’s Bay, marking its return to Canada retailing. Does the brand stand a good chance…
Is a TikTok Ban in the US the Right Move?
Today marked a significant stride in the halls of the United States House of Representatives as they rallied behind a bipartisan effort to push forth a bill targeting the operations…
Are AI-Driven Chatbots Only Frustrating the Online Shopper Journey?
AI-powered chatbots were seen as the most disruptive AI application causing friction in online shopping experiences, according to a recent survey of 1,000 U.K. consumers. Are AI-supported chatbots generally causing…
Should We Move to a Digital-Only World of Entertainment Products?
Consumers might find themselves in a digital-only world of certain products sooner than they realize. How can businesses navigate ethical issues related to consumer access and rights in the digital…
Can Same-Day Delivery Overcome Its Costs and Complexities?
A survey from UPS-owned Roadie finds retailers still seeking to determine whether the sender or customer should cover the costs of same-day delivery. What path or tools do you see…
Should More Retailers Fuse Like Applebee’s and IHOP Dual-Branded Locations?
Applebee’s and IHOP, both under the umbrella of Dine Brands Inc., are contemplating dual-branded locations. How might the success of dual-branded restaurants reshape traditional notions of brand identity and customer…
Should Rack Be Nordstrom’s Growth Engine?
Nordstrom plans to accelerate store openings at its Rack off-price concept following a strong recovery in sales in the holiday quarter. Does it make sense for Nordstrom to prioritize growth…
Does America Need More ALDI Stores?
ALDI has set its sights on a significant expansion across the United States, aiming to introduce a whopping 800 new stores by the end of 2028. How might ALDI’s ambitious…
Are ‘Underemployed’ College Grads an Opportunity for Retail?
A new study found that 52% of college graduates end up “underemployed” within a year of graduation. Can retailers capitalize more on the seemingly greater amount of college grads open…
International Women’s Day: Celebrating Achievements and Non-Linear Career Paths
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate all the women on the BrainTrust and their exciting achievements and career journeys.
How Will Computer Vision Change the Retail Experience?
AI has become a buzzword in the retail industry, and retailers like Sam’s Club and Home Depot are stepping up their game, particularly in one area of AI: computer vision…
Which Are the Best Cities for Shopping?
A recent analysis by StorageCafe identified Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach as the top metro destination for “retail therapy” in the U.S. Which cities would make your list of the top…
Is the Trader Joe’s Mini Tote Bag Craze a Good or Bad Trend?
In the realm of grocery supermarkets, there’s a hot new trending item that is not at all edible: Trader Joe’s mini tote bags. How can retailers make the most of…
Target Leans Into Same-Day Delivery in Paid Membership Launch
Following the playbook of Amazon and Walmart, Target has launched its first paid membership program. Does Target Circle 360 offer enough appeal to compete against other subscription offerings?
Amazon Begins Using Humanoid Robot Workers
In a nondescript Amazon warehouse near Seattle, employees recently encountered the future of work: a 5-foot-9-inch robot named Digit. As humanoid robots like Digit join warehouse operations, what ethical considerations…
Do National Brands Have a Bigger Private Label Opportunity?
A university study concluded that national brands stand to benefit from producing more private labels for grocers, although doing so brings “complex trade-offs” that carry some risks. Is private label…
Will the New Small-Format Whole Foods Stores Succeed or Fail Yet Again?
Whole Foods Market has unveiled plans to launch smaller stores, aiming to cater to urban dwellers looking for quick shopping trips. What strategic advantages and challenges might Whole Foods face?
Should IT Staffers Periodically Work in Their Stores?
By giving IT employees first-hand experience in the stores that their work impacts, they can gain valuable knowledge to apply back to their jobs. But is having them take time…
Should Proposing Cereal for Dinner Have Caused an Uproar?
Kellogg’s CEO Gary Pilnick was ridiculed across social media after suggesting families should eat cereal for dinner to combat inflation-spiked food prices. Does this strong reaction say more about …
Can Seiko Compete Against Rolex in the Luxury Watch Market?
Seiko Watch Corporation has made a significant move to bolster its presence in the North American market. How can Seiko’s Grand Seiko Boutique in New York strategically position itself to…
Will Warehouse Construction Opposition Upend Online’s Growth?
More local governments are restricting or outright banning new warehouses that may be required to support the next stage of e-commerce growth. Do local communities in most cases have a…
