Warby Parker posts first quarterly net profit since going public

The brand is working to mitigate tariff impacts, but has already had to raise prices on some lenses and accessories.

The Weekly Closeout: NRF chief defends tariffs, Big Lots accelerates store openings

Matt Shay, CEO of the trade group, called duties “an extraordinarily important tool” for President Trump. Meanwhile, the discount retailer is opening 132 stores this month alone.

Hims & Hers hires former Amazon exec as Q1 revenue doubles

Nader Kabbani, who spent almost 20 years at the e-commerce giant, joins the health startup as chief operations officer.

GameStop sells its Canadian business

Entrepreneur Stephan Tetrault acquired the business for an undisclosed amount, adding to his list of toy and gaming ventures.

Amazon remains bullish on AI as Alexa+ rolls out

The AI agent has reached more than 100,000 users to a positive early response, but Amazon is just beginning to reinvent CX through AI, according to CEO Andy Jassy.

EBay rolls out conversational AI shopping agent

The tool offers suggestions and advice based on customers’ shopping preferences to assist with product discovery.

ChatGPT is getting more shopper friendly

OpenAI wants to make it easier for shoppers to find, compare and buy products as more customers turn to generative AI for purchases.

What a White House-Amazon kerfuffle says about tariffs, prices and talking to customers

Amazon says it decided against telling shoppers how new duties affect prices, a plan the White House slammed as “hostile and political.” But is it a good idea? Yes and no.

Mattel warns of price increases amid tariff pressure

The toy manufacturer is accelerating a pullback from China, which already accounts for less than 20% of its U.S. imports, a distinct advantage over rivals.

J.C. Penney to launch plus-size collection with model Ashley Graham

The line will be available both in stores and online starting this fall.

Helen of Troy CEO out after 14 months

Noel Geoffroy, who was previously the company’s chief operating officer, has exited the company after taking on the top spot in March 2024.

Nike names new brand president as Hill shuffles leadership structure

As part of a reorganization, Amy Montagne will now lead the Nike brand, while 26-year veteran Heidi O’Neill is retiring.

How grocery continues to drive Walmart’s top line

The category brought in $276 billion in net sales in fiscal 2025, up nearly 12% from the same period two years ago, the retailer said in its annual report.

Skechers to go private in $9.4B deal

3G Capital is paying $63 per share in cash, which analysts say represents a bet that the footwear sector will be profitable in the long term despite tariffs.

Rite Aid files for bankruptcy 8 months after exiting Chapter 11

The drugstore retailer is in talks to sell itself, but could liquidate its entire footprint if no buyers emerge.

Updated May 6, 2025

Walmart debuts ‘Grow with US’ program for small businesses

As small businesses brace for tariff impacts, Walmart is pairing them with mentors and showcasing their products as part of its new initiative.

Nike, Under Armour among shoe brands urging tariff exemptions as back-to-school looms

About 80 companies signed a letter from the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America to President Trump, warning that “inventory for U.S. consumers may soon run low.”

VF lays off about 400 employees

The Vans owner said the cuts are part of the company’s ongoing turnaround strategy.

Kirkland’s eyes additional $5M in funds from Beyond as fourth-quarter sales drop

The home retailer, which saw net income fall more than 20% in Q4, will use the money in part to open Bed Bath & Beyond Home and Overstock stores.

‘We’re not just a hot cup company’: What’s next for Stanley

Can the water bottle brand live past its virality? Global President Matt Navarro says it already has.

EBay restructures leadership, brings in new CFO

A former PayPal exec is stepping into the role. Meanwhile, the company is bringing together its product and marketing teams and consolidating engineering.

Retail job cuts up nearly 80% in April

Retail announced over 64,000 job cuts so far this year, the second most of any industry, according to a report from Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

Retail’s latest tariff challenge? Setting prices.

New levies are shaping up to be a holiday tax on consumers already touchy about spending. Careful analysis and clear communication are key.

Amazon to invest $4B toward rural delivery expansion by 2026

The e-commerce giant “has a massive advantage over UPS and FedEx” to make the initiative successful, one expert said.

Walmart opens 1M-square-foot Sam’s Club distribution center in Florida

The Jacksonville site will serve 25 Sam’s Club locations and also store imported goods destined for other facilities.