Two recent surveys from Evergage and Arm Treasure Data have found that marketers are increasingly hoping that artificial intelligence can take personalization to another level. What are the advantages and shortcomings of using machine learning/algorithmic approaches for personalization?
Edgewell, the parent company of Schick and Wilkinson razors, Edge shaving gel, Playtex and other personal care brands, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to merge with Harry’s in a cash and stock deal that values Harry’s at $1.37 billion. Will the Edgewell/Harry’s deal create a stronger single company from the two?
U.K. grocer Sainsbury’s has observed Amazon.com’s success with a third-party marketplace and plans to launch one of its own aimed at grocery shoppers. Will grocers including Sainsbury’s and Albertsons be helped or hurt over time as a result of operating online marketplaces?
Walmart has announced the launch of WalmartPetRX.com, an online pharmacy for dogs, cats and other animals. How long do you think it will take for Walmart to become a major retail supplier of pet prescription medicines with its new online pharmacy and expanded selection in stores?
In a recent interview, Angela Ahrendts, former CEO of Burberry and then head of Apple’s retail business, discussed her career journey and the role that intuition has played in her decision-making in business. What do you think are the most valuable insights shared by Angela Ahrendts by her experience at Apple?
In mid-April, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Fisher-Price issued a voluntary recall of a product linked to the deaths of 32 infants since 2009. What took so long? Where do you see the oversights or faults that led to the tragedies surrounding Fisher-Price’s Rock ’n Play Sleeper?
Lord & Taylor may have survived as a business for nearly two centuries, but the retailer hasn’t thrived for decades. Now, it’s up for sale. Do you think Lord & Taylor will generate a lot of interest as a possible acquisition for other retailers or investment firms?
H&M has announced plans to discontinue its catalog business. What factors, in your mind, argue for or against dumping retail print catalogs?
Walmart is helping a specific segment of the tech labor market get its skills up to speed. What advantages might Walmart gain by cultivating talent that wants to return to the tech workforce after an absence?
Calvin McDonald, Lululemon’s CEO since last August, views the yoga-themed retailer more as an experiential brand than a lifestyle one. What do you think of Lululemon’s Sweatlife? What hurdles do you see facing Lululemon as it seeks to position its brand around this philosophy of living?
