Discover retail trends, strategies, and innovations shaping the industry.
E-commerce
Artificial intelligence played a pivotal role in boosting online holiday sales during the 2024 season, according to a Salesforce report. U.S. online sales climbed nearly 4% year-over-year, reaching $282 billion between November 1 and December 31, surpassing Salesforce’s initial forecast of 2% growth. Globally, AI-influenced sales surged to
Business Insights
Two titans of luxury retail have joined forces in a landmark deal that promises to reshape the industry. Saks Global has successfully completed a $2.7 billion acquisition of the Neiman Marcus Group, bringing Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman under one corporate umbrella while maintaining their distinct
Retail
In a significant win for the Biden administration, a U.S. federal judge blocked the $25 billion merger between Kroger and Albertsons, two of the nation’s largest grocery chains. The decision followed a three-week trial in Portland, Oregon, where the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) argued that the merger would
Pharmaceutical
Amazon's pharmacy business is on track to generate $2 billion in revenue this year, driven by surging customer interest in its online medication services, according to Evercore's analysis. In a recent survey conducted by Evercore, 45% of Amazon customers expressed being "extremely interested" or
Advertising
The global advertising market is poised for continued growth in 2025, but the tempo is slowing. After the post-pandemic boom, the industry appears to be settling into a steady, single-digit pace, echoing trends from the mid-2000s. Forecasts highlight regional disparities, political uncertainties, and sector-specific shifts that could reshape the market.
Business Insights
In 2007, Vizio disrupted the TV market by delivering high-quality flat-screen TVs at a fraction of the cost of competitors like Sony and Samsung. Now, Walmart’s $2.3 billion acquisition of Vizio signals a new disruption—not in hardware, but in advertising technology and data-driven consumer engagement. From Flat
Business Insights
Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol has unveiled a bold, two-pronged vision for the iconic coffee chain: to combine speed and efficiency with the inviting "third-place" atmosphere that has long defined the brand. In a recent interview with Good Morning America, Niccol outlined a strategy that focuses on streamlining service
Small Business
U.S. small businesses remain heavily reliant on Chinese imports, despite existing tariffs and the looming threat of additional levies from the Trump administration. Efforts to diversify supply chains face significant challenges, including high domestic labor costs, a shortage of skilled workers, and potential tariffs on alternative manufacturing hubs like
Food
Krispy Kreme is celebrating the holiday season with its "Merry Grinchmas Doughnut Collection," inspired by Dr. Seuss's "The Grinch." Available from November 29, the lineup features three new doughnuts and the return of a seasonal favorite. The new Grinch Doughnut is an unglazed doughnut
Food
Private equity firm Blackstone has acquired a controlling stake in Jersey Mike's Subs, valuing the sandwich chain at approximately $8 billion. Founder and CEO Peter Cancro will retain a significant equity stake and continue to lead the company. This partnership aims to accelerate Jersey Mike's expansion
Business Insights
Macy's is revamping its shoe departments to enhance the shopping experience under the leadership of CEO Tony Spring. The retailer has reduced the number of displayed shoe styles by approximately 300, aiming to create a more organized and appealing environment. Display tables now feature about 15 pairs of
Automotive
Advance Auto Parts has announced plans to close over 700 locations as part of a strategic initiative to enhance sales performance and adapt to changing consumer habits. The closures will affect 523 corporate stores, 204 independent locations, and four distribution centers across the United States. This decision follows a comprehensive