The Latest

• 

  As Trump rises again, so too might inflation

  Some retailers could get hit hard by policies promised by the president-elect, especially tariffs and taxes, though tax breaks may be a tailwind.

  Operations

• 

  Sponsored by Bitly

  Personalization 101: How to use simple data to create tailored retail experiences

  Personalization is powerful—why are so many retailers missing the mark? Learn how to get it right.

  Consumer Trends

• 

  Tempur Sealy, Mattress Firm seek to pause FTC case

  The mattress maker and retail companies say being forced to litigate both a federal court case and an FTC challenge would cause undue financial hardship.

  Operations

• 

  Amazon launches same-day drone delivery in Arizona city

  Customers near the company’s Tolleson facility can get thousands of items delivered by air, but there are limitations.

  Operations

• 

  Warby Parker raises full-year guidance as it posts double-digit revenue growth in Q3

  The company is on track to open 40 new stores by the end of the year and continues to add eye exam locations as it works to grow its vision offerings.

  Operations

• 

  Allbirds makes progress in Q3 but profits remain elusive

  The DTC footwear brand’s store closures have hurt sales and saved cash. Now it’s introducing new styles and stepping up its marketing.

  Marketing

• 

  Under Armour plots ‘most significant’ marketing to date as it works to win back shoppers

  “I don’t believe the consumer’s mad at us, we just have to give them a reason to want to engage with us again,” CEO Kevin Plank said on a call with analysts.

  Operations

• 

  About 200K veterans leave the military each year. Here’s why some choose retail careers.

  Retail careers have much in common with the military, including striving for excellence in a people-led environment and tapping into teamwork to make it happen.

  Operations

• 

  27% of shoppers will switch retailers, abandon purchase if they come across locked-up products: report

  More than half of consumers report seeing more merchandise locked up in stores in the past year, according to a recent survey from Numerator.

  Operations

• 

  Amazon debuts virtual holiday shop

  The immersive 3D shopping experience includes music, animations and a guided journey to help with product discovery.

  Marketing

• 

  Deep Dive

  DTC is dead. Long live DTC.

  As a channel, it remains key to growth for many retailers. But the era of the DTC brand as we know it is over.

  Operations

• 

  Home Depot co-founder Bernard Marcus dies at 95

  In 1979 he launched a company that would eventually operate 2,300 stores and employ over 500,000 associates.

  Operations

• 

  Benefit Cosmetics launches first virtual 3D shopping experience

  The grocery store-inspired digital space, dubbed “The Benemart,” blends gaming and holiday shopping. 

  Marketing

• 

  Column

  The Weekly Closeout: Brooks Running hits revenue record and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet acquires former Big Lots stores

  The running brand surpassed $1 billion in global revenue year to date, while Ollie’s acquired more leases from the bankrupt discounter.

  Operations

• 

  Best Buy pushes tech in holiday ad series

  The campaign features the retailer’s new hologram spokesperson, “Gram,” and addresses common problems like finding the perfect gift.

  Marketing

• 

  Dick’s recreates iconic holiday film moments with NFL’s Watt brothers

  In a new spot, former NFL player J.J. Watt is trapped in a Dick’s store after closing, leading to a series of silly antics.

  Marketing

• 

  Podcast

  The Backroom: Retailers creeping it real

  Halloween will drive $11.6 billion in spending this year. Plus, it’s fun!

  The Backroom with Retail Dive

• 

  De minimis overhaul will start before next president: former Biden official

  A rulemaking proposal being issued by early December is very likely, according to former White House COVID-19 supply coordinator Tim Manning.

  Operations

• 

  Amazon’s holiday campaign spotlights classic song, acts of kindness

  “What the World Needs Now Is Love” features heavily in the effort that extends Amazon's focus on music around the holidays.

  Marketing

• 

  5 retail horror stories of 2024

  From Youthforia’s problematic foundation shade range to Foxtrot’s abrupt shuttering, retailers have been the subject of some scary stories.

  Operations

• 

  Lowe’s launches home maintenance support tool for loyalty members

  With the Lowe’s Digital Home Platform, members can access personalized info about their products, including warranties and manuals.  

  Marketing

• 

  Vitamin Shoppe owner files for bankruptcy

  Franchise Group, which also runs Pet Supplies Plus and Buddy’s Home Furnishings, will shut down American Freight starting this week.

  Operations

• 

  Why some retail has been resilient against Amazon

  It's about the products — and the people.

  Consumer Trends

• 

  Sheetz accepting crypto at all locations

  After a limited trial run, customers can now use several popular digital currencies to buy items at all of the retailer’s 750-plus locations.

  Operations

• 

  Dollar Tree CEO steps down

  Rick Dreiling’s departure due to health concerns comes as the company is navigating several challenges, including a possible spin off or sale of its Family Dollar banner.

  Operations

• 

  Column

  The Weekly Closeout: Kate Spade launches M&M’S collection and Nike extends partnership with NBA, WNBA

  The fashion company announced a sweet collaboration, while the athletics brand is signing on for another 12 years with the basketball associations. 

  Marketing

More stories