TECHNOLOGY

Study: Fulfillment costs erode up to 70% of brands’ order value
Complexities associated with online shipping and fulfillment are eating into retailers’ profitability. This was according to “Strategies for Agile, Profitable and Secure Omnichannel Execution.” The report, from Radial, revealed that more than 55% of customers are using multiple channels, such as online and mobile to shop.
Study: Shoppers drawn to smart devices stay abreast of security
A majority of Americans want to use connected devices to make purchases, yet they are keeping a keen eye on securing personal data.

Beauty retailer steps up augmented reality offering

Sephora is upgrading its app-based digital makeover experience. The beauty chain is expanding the functionality of its Sephora Virtual Artist, an augmented reality-based feature on its mobile app that enables shoppers to digitally try on make-up. The app’s new Cheek Try On service allows users to virtually try on over 1,000 shades of cheek color, including blush, bronzer, contour, and highlighter shades available in single colors and palettes.
UPS: International online shopping is on the rise

More U.S. online shoppers are buying items from international retailers. To compete against these lower prices, U.S brands to step up personalization efforts.
Accenture: Digital innovation to drive trillions of dollars in value

Retailers could unlock $2.95 trillion in value over the next decade simply by investing in transforming, digitally driven business models.
German discount grocer in deal with fashion icon

Supermodel, designer, TV star and all-around celebrity Heidi Klum is teaming up with an unusual partner. On the heels of its entry into the United States, German discount grocer Lidl announced its first ever fashion collaboration, with Heidi Klum. The collection, described as high-end yet affordable, will be available exclusively at Lidl and will launch across its stores in Europe and the United States later this year. Collections will be featured at certain times throughout the year, during "Lidl Fashion Weeks.”
Walmart launches automated grocery kiosk

Walmart is once again raising the stakes in the online grocery game. In another move that takes a direct hit at AmazonFresh Pickup, the discounter quietly began testing an automated kiosk at a single store in Oklahoma. The 20-ft.-by-80-ft. kiosk, which resides in the parking lot at the Walmart Super Center in Oklahoma City, is fulfilling hundreds of grocery orders placed by customers who shop online or through their mobile browser, according to The Oklahoman.
Study: E-commerce returns experience critical to shopping journey

E-commerce sales may be hitting all-time highs, but the key to success is seamless online returns processes. This was according to “Making Returns a Competitive Advantage,” a re-port from Navar. The report is based on responses from 700 U.S. con-sumers who returned an online purchase in the past 12 months.
Coming to the ‘small screen’: Amazon Prime

Amazon is giving Prime members another way to shop — through their Amazon Fire TV. Amazon Fire TV already streams Web-based content, such as videos, music and games on the “big screen.” Now Amazon’s new app lets Prime members search and browse Amazon products and make purchases directly through their Fire TV remote, according to TechCrunch.
Online giant takes on Walmart with big Prime discount

The battle for low-income shoppers is heating up. Amazon announced that individuals participating in government assistance programs can sign up for Amazon Prime membership at the discounted rate of $5.99 per month. The regular annual membership for Prime is $99 per year, or $10.99 a month for those who prefer to pay on a monthly basis.