Marketing Tactics

Enterprising television reporters at KGTV in San Diego caused Walmart some grief this week when they uncovered that prices were ringing up incorrectly on some items and customers were not being offered a $3 refund in keeping with a 2008 court order. To watch the video click here or continuing reading.

Walmart earlier this week named Cindy Davis EVP of a newly created global consumer insights business unit. She will be responsible for understanding broad consumer trends world wide and creating advanced analytical tools to support Walmart’s business, a sizeable task considering Walmart’s expanding global empire and the diversity of markets being served.

New York City -- A report released Thursday by American Express Business Insights said that spending in the fourth quarter was up across the board, but the retail sector spend growth was more subdued despite the holiday shopping season.

WEST CHESTER, Pa.  -- Home decor expert Thom Filicia has debuted a new line on QVC. 

Thom Filicia Designs for Living includes an exquisite assortment of top-of-bed pieces, including comforters, pillows, throws and sheet sets priced between $28 and $250.

Toy Fair took over the Javitz Center in New York City this week, and amidst the fun was some serious business as toy companies showcased what they hope will be the next big thing. Just take the Sing-a-ma-jigs line from Mattel. Introduced at last year’s Toy Fair, the harmonizing toy was a major holiday hit, and retailers who got their hands on them reaped the benefits.

The nation’s leading auto parts and accessories retailer is offering a new delivery program through an affiliation with ShopRunner. According AutoZone, the agreement will ShopRunner will allow it to provided an enhanced online shopping experience because ShopRunner members are able to receive free and unlimited two-day shipping and returns from retail partners.

CINCINNATI — Kroger said it is kicking off a year-long initiative to raise funds for armed forces members in partnership with the USO, the leading organization for morale-boosting programs and services for American troops and their families.

Kroger said the campaign will include in-store and online promotions and a text-to-give campaign that encourages Kroger customers to text "USO" to 27722 during the race to donate $10 to USO programs.

New York City -- For the first time in six years, the number of consumers who switched service providers as a result of poor customer service declined in 2010, according to the latest edition of an annual consumer behavior study by Accenture.