David’s Bridal’s ambassador program invites fans, store associates to its style squad

Members will use their social media networks to generate authentic content in exchange for up to 20% commission. 

Walmart, Wing to scale drone delivery operations to 270 stores

The two companies aim to provide service to customers near 150 locations in the next year before growing further.

In the age of AI, REI is turning to its human employees to win

The retailer’s “green vest” associates serve as a key differentiator — both in stores and online — in an increasingly AI-driven world, according to CEO Mary Beth Laughton.

Macy’s targets another 14 stores for closure

The department store’s downsizing plan is key to its turnaround and will ultimately entail shuttering about 150 locations.

L.L. Bean names company veteran next CEO

Greg Elder has been with the outdoor retailer for almost 20 years, most recently as chief retail officer overseeing stores, wholesale and other operations.

How rising retail brands use influencers to combat digital overload

At NRF’s Big Show, execs from Mejuri, Coterie and Beyond Yoga emphasized the power of community in amplifying brand messages and viral moments.

UPS’ Happy Returns pilots AI tool to halt decoy returns fraud

The company's Return Vision software compares returned products with images from the retailer, a capability being used by Everlane and others.

The Weekly Closeout: Nike sells Rtfkt, Hanky Panky gets acquired

The athletics giant shut down the virtual sneaker company about a year ago, while the intimate apparel brand found a new home. 

Bob’s Discount Furniture files for IPO

The furniture chain aims to use the proceeds of its IPO to pay down debt and plans to more than double its store footprint by 2035.

S&P Global Ratings downgrades Saks Global on missed interest payment

The luxury giant is unlikely to make good within the grace period or achieve promised savings from last year’s $2.7 billion merger, the analysts said.

Kendra Scott taps Athleta vet as CEO

Chris Blakeslee, who previously served as chief executive at the Gap-owned activewear brand, also held positions at Alo Yoga and Bella+Canvas.

Amazon to roll out updated Dash Carts to more Whole Foods stores

The latest version of the smart carts, which includes a real-time savings tracker, will expand to more than 25 of the specialty grocer’s locations this year.

Walmart adds tech veteran to board as it preps for AI era

Shishir Mehrotra, who co-founded an AI platform and also has experience at YouTube, joins the board ahead of John Furner’s move to CEO.

Updated Jan. 8, 2026

Hanna Andersson names Toys R Us vet chief digital officer

Kacey Sharrett, who was most recently the head of DTC at GoPro, will oversee the children’s apparel brand’s digital ecosystem and customer experience. 

Target grows wellness assortment, again

Following a similar play last year, the mass retailer is expanding the product category by 30% with a focus on offering "thousands" of items for under $10.

What shaped retail’s holiday season in 2025

It was a year of AI-generated gift recommendations, tariff upheaval and increased financial stress on shoppers.

GameStop floats CEO pay entirely tied to performance

Ryan Cohen would have to reach sky-high goals to receive the lucrative compensation, a setup resembling Elon Musk’s at Tesla.

US e-commerce spend reached nearly $258B over the holidays

Adobe Analytics data found consumer spending grew 6.8% compared to 2024, with buy now, pay later usage reaching a new high.

The Backroom: Contemplating retail in 2026 with Doug Stephens

The retail strategy adviser talks about trust in the age of emerging AI and the industry’s potential to shape our society.

E.l.f. Beauty launches virtual makeup experience on Roblox

The cosmetics company seeks to attract Gen Alpha and Gen Z shoppers in the gaming universe with avatars that reflect their aesthetic. 

Could Nike sell Converse?

Revenue declines and a 44% drop in demand creation may indicate it’s time to divest the brand, according to BNP Paribas.

A look at retail’s year of AI news

Retail may be lagging behind other industries in the adoption of artificial intelligence, but 2025 was still transformative. Here’s a recap of retail’s biggest AI-related news this year.

Claire’s plans tech upgrades despite financial setbacks

The retailer will take steps to elevate customer in-store experiences by improving its technology foundation. 

Amazon expands rural delivery with Oklahoma last-mile station

The 30,000-square-foot facility in Weatherford is slated to break ground early this year, and the city said it will improve delivery speeds in the area.

How Home Depot sped up its supply chain — and what comes next

The home improvement retailer has built an expansive network of distribution centers for faster deliveries. It's now looking to maximize the potential of those assets.