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Events

  • Survey: Retail execs optimistic about 2017

    Retailers executives are bullish on 2017.   That’s according to a survey from TD Bank, which polled 173 retail executives at the National Retail Federation’s annual Big Show in New York City. Seventy-four percent of the retailers said they believe sales will increase in the next 12 months. What’s more, 81% of the retailers reported that they met or exceeded their revenue goals in 2016.   In other key findings:  

  • Warby Parker, Palo Alto, Calif.

    Warby Parker has set up shop in downtown Palo Alto in a Spanish Colonial Revival building built in 1927.      The hot eyewear retailer has a knack for combining its signature library-inspired design details, which include walnut shelving, terrazzo tiled flooring, and plush leather seating, with unique elements in each location. In Palo Alto, a mural of original illustrations by artist Maira Kalman adds color and a touch of humor.   

  • Tech Bytes: NRF 2017: Evolve with disruptors to remain relevant

    The trends featured at the annual NRF Convention & Expo never fail to get the tech juices flowing, and this year was no exception.    Sessions and the expo floor illustrated how retail technology has changed dramatically in a very short time. However, the event also relayed a sobering message: the industry needs to greatly evolve to keep up pace with customer expectations, and remain relevant in the long-term.  

  • Alibaba throws hat into the Olympics sponsorship ring

    What better place is there for global exposure than the Olympic Games?   At least, that is what Alibaba is counting on now that it struck a deal to become a top sponsor of the Olympic Games through 2028. The sponsorship, which is worth $800 million, pits the brand among giants like Coca Cola Co. and Samsung Electronics Co., according to Bloomberg.  

  • Accenture in tech collaboration with Council of Fashion Designers

    The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and Accenture are collaborating to help shape how the fashion industry integrates technology and consumer insights into its business practices.    Combining the creativity within CFDA’s membership with Accenture’s expertise in customer experience, strategy, insights and technology, the two organizations will create talent-development programs for today’s designers and tomorrow’s retailers.  

  • Target CIO Mike McNamara Talks Tech Transformation

    Mike McNamara, chief information officer and digital office for Target Corp, was among the speakers this week at the National Retail Federation’s annual Big Show in New York City. McNamara described how Target’s technology team is leading the way on transformation.   In the blog post below, which is on Target’s website, McNamara discusses the change he is leading, and some of the exciting technologies he saw at the Big Show: 

  • NRF launches job training initiative

    The NRF Foundation has brought together leading retailers and non-profits to launch a job training and credentialing initiative called Rise Up (Retail Industry Skills & Education).   The program is designed to help people — regardless of education, background, economic means or age — acquire the skills they need to secure jobs in retail and advance into promising careers in every aspect of retail, from in-store to digital and mobile commerce, according to the NRF.  

  • The Ins & Outs of Closeouts

    Jeff Katkowsky, VP with Sachse Construction, will share his insights and experiences as part of a panel focused on overcoming obstacles during closeouts at SPECS/2017.  
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