Retail & Ecommerce

The boom times for ecommerce and retail have largely passed. “It’s going to be harder [for retailers] to identify pockets of growth and opportunity. But, the good news is that it’s not going to be that roller coaster of demand fluctuations that has been challenging for retailers to navigate over the last couple of years,” our analyst Blake Droesch said.

Domino’s expects 6% global retail sales growth this year: While that’s below its long-term target of 7%, it’s significantly ahead of competitors such as Papa John’s and Pizza Hut.

Amazon tries to expand Whole Foods’ appeal: It added a micro fulfillment center to one site so customers can pick up an array of items when they shop.

US inflation eased in September, but consumers remain anxious about their finances: Food prices and the cost of living keep shoppers on edge, even as most indicators point to healthy spending.

Payment providers are going all in on A2A payments despite limited retail uptake. Focusing on bill payments can help Plaid’s solution gain traction.

Ikea’s price cuts led to lower revenues but higher sales volumes and traffic: Ecommerce’s share of sales also grew, as the retailer added more pick-up-only locations to its store fleet.

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.