Retail & Ecommerce

Next year, for the first time, more than half of US social network users will buy via social platforms.

Target rethinks its large-format stores: The retailer’s new format features backroom fulfillment space five times larger than at its previous large stores, as well as a broader selection of merchandise.

Apple and Amazon deal faces a new lawsuit: The companies are headed to court to determine if their 2019 deal for Apple’s storefront on Amazon Marketplace reduced competition from independent Apple resellers.

Nike and Apple eye opportunities in the metaverse: Nike is opening an online store and trading platform for digital sneakers, while Apple is reportedly working on its own virtual environment.

Holiday travel demand was already low, but it just got lower: Domestic travel looks to slow significantly this season due to higher airline ticket prices.

FedEx says volumes are lower than expected going into the holiday season: But UPS anticipates a peak later in the year as shoppers return to stores and supply chain concerns fade.

The company’s gross merchandise volume surged 62% YoY thanks to a boost in active customers and merchants.

The early results are in: Foot traffic saw increases week over week between September 19 and October 16, suggesting the holiday season may have kicked off earlier in-store, per Placer.ai.

Retailers focus on delivery certainty rather than speed: Saks Off Fifth is the latest retailer to offer shoppers a specific delivery date.

Consumers’ holiday shopping habits have changed: While 84% of shoppers say sales are a priority in gifting decisions, only 47% plan to shop on Black Friday.

On today's episode, we discuss what to make of the apparent turnaround in Amazon's online store sales growth, why Amazon's ad business stands out, and what to expect from the ecommerce giant in Q4. "In Other News," we talk about the secret to returns convenience and how much people will be shopping in stores this holiday season. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Andrew Lipsman.

Adidas’ new CEO Bjørn Gulden has his work cut out for him: The sportswear company lowered its outlook for the fourth time this year as it struggles to move forward without Yeezy.

Denied credit due to low credit scores, many UK consumers are turning to more expensive options to weather the cost of living crisis.

Fifth Third Bank launches 1% Cash/Back card to attract consumers looking for interest-free lending: But it’s up against widely available 2% cash back cards in a highly competitive industry.

The Fed reports increased consumer borrowing: Credit card balances are rising as consumers struggle with inflation and other economic challenges.

A new tax rule, which requires digital payment apps to report business payments over $600 to the IRS, doesn't apply to Zelle.

As ecommerce growth slows, Shopify hedges its bets: The ecommerce platform is enhancing its lending services, seller tools, and enterprise solutions as part of its “everything but the kitchen sink” growth strategy.