Petco reaffirms full-year guidance even as Q1 sales fall

While its owned brands are more directly exposed to tariffs, executives said the retailer can deliver on its outlook if levies remain at current levels.

How Bob’s, Ikea are bucking the trend of furniture retail stagnation

The segment, which grew during the height of the pandemic, has been contracting. However, value players are opening locations — and poised to take market share.

Dude Wipes secures private equity investment

The brand said it plans to use the funding from TSG Consumer Partners to grow its retail partnerships.

Walmart’s latest AI feature aims to help associates overcome language barriers

The retailer is updating its associate app to include real-time translation in 44 languages, alongside AI-driven task management.

Nordstrom’s anniversary sale adds 65 brands to the mix

Also new this year is “Anniversary Big Deals,” in which a select assortment will be offered at a deeper discount of up to 50% off. 

Fabletics names Vans vet chief marketing officer

Carly Gomez has been promoted to the position, while Meera Bhatia’s COO role has been expanded to also include president. 

Unilever acquires Dr. Squatch, valuing brand’s viral marketing to Gen Z men

The maker of soaps, shampoos and lotions has become well known for innuendo-laced ads starring “Euphoria” actor Sydney Sweeney.

Perigold opens first store

The Houston location features furniture, decor and lighting from brands such as Visual Comfort, Century Furniture and House of Rohl.

May retail sales jump 5.2% as spending normalizes

A temporary pause on some tariffs pushed shoppers to pull forward purchases in March and April, but that behavior slowed in May.

Updated June 17, 2025

Walmart, Target announce competing Prime Day sales

Both retailers are offering early access to paid loyalty members and highlighting back-to-school savings.

Free returns are often a deal breaker for consumers

Most consumers expect free returns as a standard offering, according to a Rithum survey. 

Is the US undermining ‘Made in America’ apparel manufacturing?

When it comes to reshoring garment manufacturing, the Trump administration’s tariffs are at odds with its immigration crackdown.

Economy heading toward ‘significant slowdown,’ Conference Board says

A decline in housing permits in May and two consecutive months of rising claims for unemployment insurance led to a dip in the Leading Economic Index.

Walmart agrees to pay $10M to settle FTC wire-transfer allegations

The settlement closes a case the Federal Trade Commission brought in 2022, alleging that the retail giant turned a blind eye to scams and fraud.

The Weekly Closeout: Michaels rolls out Summerween and Shakira’s beauty brand debuts

The crafts retailer is releasing Halloween decor earlier than ever, while the pop star’s Isima line will launch at Ulta Beauty.

J.C. Penney to close Texas warehouse

The closure in Haslet will impact around 300 employees. 

Hibbett debuts kids-focused app, e-commerce site

Just in time for back-to-school season, Hibbett Kids features personalized content, product drops and flexible payment options. 

The running list of major retail deals

In May alone, Andie made its first acquisition, E.l.f Beauty snapped up Rhode and Skechers went private.

Updated June 9, 2025

Lululemon to lay off 150 corporate staff amid struggles in North America

Inventory at the athleisure giant is piling up as newer entrants in the space take share, and sales in its largest market are slowing.

NikeSkims launch pushed back due to production delays

The first collection was set to debut this spring, but the two teams are working to ensure they drop the right product at the right time, a spokesperson said.

Amazon touts AI upgrades for forecasting, deliveries and robotics

The advancements will help customers get their orders faster and increase product availability, the company said.

Sam’s Club offers temporary price cuts on 1K products

The retailer is dropping prices on select summer items through July 22 as its parent company, Walmart, warns tariffs could raise prices.

Tailored Brands taps former J.C. Penney merchant John Tighe as CEO

Peter Sachse will become executive chairman of the board as a result and said the planned succession is a hallmark of a strong organization.

Investor slams Victoria’s Secret ‘super squad’ leadership as inexperienced, ineffectual

Barington Capital wants the Angels back and says CEO Hillary Super lacks focus. The retailer says it’s confident in its “new and experienced leadership.”

How Nike CEO Elliott Hill is building out his turnaround team

Eight months in, Hill has changed leadership structures and brought in new hires. At the same time, several long-time executives have retired.