Retail & Ecommerce

The neobank has big credit card aspirations as it looks to become a one-stop shop for financial services, but its new programs may struggle to secure uptake.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss the places throughout the purchase funnel where retailers and brands are leaving revenue on the table. Listen to the conversation with our analyst Sara Lebow as she hosts director of Briefings Jeremy Goldman and analyst Sarah Marzano.

Pop-ups are no longer low-cost attention-getters: Rising costs and low vacancy rates are forcing brands to look for new tactics to build buzz on a budget.

Walmart’s adaptive retail strategy is heavy on genAI, AR: The retailer is relying on the technologies to deliver personalized experiences, engage Gen Z, and improve customer service.

Shein’s UK revenues soar while the wait for IPO drags on: The fast-fashion retailer’s success has come at the expense of companies like Boohoo and Asos.

Prime Big Deal Days spurs consumers to shop on a random Tuesday in October: Amazon’s event drives shoppers to spend, even if most aren’t buying holiday gifts.

A winning loyalty strategy isn’t just about short-term wins like lifting sales; it’s about building a long-lasting relationship and boosting customer lifetime value. Here are three ways brands can build long-term loyalty.

Meta enhances ad tools with AI: New video and image features improve ad performance, boosting engagement and advertiser ROI.

As younger generations use the P2P app for more of their banking needs, it’s still missing key financial services.

Over half (56%) of US grocery retail executives are concerned about competition from internet grocery stores (like Thrive Market or Fresh Direct), according to a June 2024 survey from Deloitte. Nearly as many (53%) are concerned about third-party grocery shopping apps like Instacart or DoorDash.

Logistics startup Auger raised $100 million: Former Amazon and Flexport exec Dave Clark is launching the company, which will use AI to help clients make key supply- chain decisions.

Record APRs are putting off consumers—we look at what this means ahead of issuers’ earnings later this week.

Walmart rolls out series of initiatives to attract customers to its stores and boost ecommerce business: The retailer is opening a cashierless Sam’s Club store, adding pet care centers, and automating more distribution centers.

PepsiCo takes steps to evolve its portfolio toward health and wellness: The company sees an opportunity to appeal to younger consumers who prefer eating small portions throughout the day.

Chinese consumer spending dipped below pre-pandemic levels during Golden Week holiday: While there were some positive signs—including higher daily spending—sentiment remains subdued, which could bode ill for Singles Day.

Last month, Dollar General launched an in-store audio network, enhancing its in-store and online ad solutions.

We expect social commerce sales in the US to reach $101.38 billion this year, driven by existing buyers increasing their spending. While social commerce plays a smaller role in holiday shopping, it's popular among Gen Z, who are more likely to make purchases influenced by creators. TikTok and Facebook are the top platforms, with apparel brands poised to benefit the most.

53% of US holiday season digital sales will come from mobile this year, per Adobe Analytics data. That marks the second consecutive year mobile has accounted for more than half of holiday sales.

Instacart expands Caper Cart ad opportunities to capitalize on in-store retail media demand: The company joins Ahold Delhaize in beefing up its offerings to give CPG advertisers more ways to reach shoppers.

Democratic lawmakers demand CPG companies stop engaging in shrinkflation: While the practice helped boost companies’ bottom lines, it carries a significant cost.