TECHNOLOGY

British online fashion giant steps up product searches
ASOS is streamlining how its mobile shoppers search for merchandise. The largest online fashion retailer in the U.K. is adding a visual search feature to its iOS-based mobile app, reported TechCrunch. It will be rolled out to their Android app “soon."
Fast-casual chain steps up digital ordering
As Panera Bread’s electronic orders continue to rise, so does its commitment to digital customer engagement. The fast-casual chain continues to add more digital touchpoints, making it easier for shoppers to engage with its brand. Whether delivering new services via the Web, mobile or in-store kiosks, “we want to drive convenience, speed, and contribute to an exceptional customer journey,” Mark Berinato, VP, digital, Panera Bread said during a session at eTail East on Monday.

Target expands next-day delivery pilot — with some tweaks

The delivery wars continue to heat up.
Amazon shortens delivery time again — this time to minutes

Online giant Amazon continues to shorten delivery time with a new service that puts goods in shoppers’ hands within minutes of placing their order.
First Look: Indochino, King of Prussia, Pa.

Online made-to-measure retailer Indochino expands its brick-and-mortar footprint with its largest location to date, a 4,100-sq.-ft. space at King of Prussia mall, King of Prussia, Pa. The new outpost caps off a busy summer for the Canadian retailer, during which it also opened a second location in New York City, and flagships in Chicago and Washington, D.C. Earlier this year, the company opened two storefronts in Canada, in Edmonton and Vancouver. It currently has a total of 17 stores in North America.
Beauty giant gives loyal shoppers their own ‘chat-room’

Sephora’s new service strives to connect customers while they shop. The specialty retailer launched a digital platform that invites customers enrolled in its Beauty Insider loyalty program to connect and chat about all things beauty. The mobile and online platform serves as a destination for members to find inspiration, ask questions and get recommendations in an unsponsored, real-time social setting.
Vitamin Shoppe launches online subscription service — with a hook

Taking a page out of Birchbox's play book, The Vitamin Shoppe is going to be sending out personalized sample boxes of new products.
How High-Ticket Specialty Stores Can Win More BTS Sales

Back to school is the retail year’s second most critical season. It’s thought of as that make-or-break stretch that provides momentum into the holiday season. For several years, retailers have seen changes in the way the back-to-school season behaves. This year will be no exception as e-commerce and convenience plays continue to devour consumer attention and wallet share.
Aldi turns up the heat in already competitive supermarket industry

German discount grocer Aldi is jumping into home grocery delivery. The retailer announced a pilot program with Instacart, the on-demand grocery delivery service. Starting later this month, the service will be available in Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles, with potential for future expansion.
Amazon making inroads in home and kitchen categories

Amazon is making great strides in the home and kitchen space with its Amazon Home store, which curates home and kitchen wares, furniture and appliances. Housewares account for 15% of Amazon's growth in 2016, according to a report from One Click Retail. During the first two quarters of 2017, the growth of the home & kitchen product group has continued on an upward trajectory.