Loyalty Marketing

Consumers have made it clear what type of marketing influences their purchase decisions, and it’s not always high-tech. According to a new study from branding network Experticity, 82% of marketers believe social media is extremely or somewhat effective in influencing buyer decisions, yet only 49% of consumers reported that they trust brand social media campaigns.

In addition, 83% of marketers believe traditional advertising is the most effective means of influencing buying decisions, but only 47% of consumers say they trust it.

Lane Bryant is teaming up with the American Cancer Society on an omnichannel campaign to raise money for breast cancer research.

Since 2012, Lane Bryant customers and associates have contributed $1.4 million dollars to the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign. The brand says it aims to increase the 2015 contribution by 21% for a total contribution of $2 million dollars in 4 years.

With nearly 1,100 stores in malls nationwide, it appears that 2015 was not the summer of the sneaker for Finish Line.

The retailer reported weaker-than-expected sales for its second quarter ended Aug. 29. The results weren’t awful, with sales advancing 3.5% to $483.2 million and same-store sales up 1.5%. However, gas prices were in free fall for much of the year and the unemployment rate was in decline, which should have left Finish Line’s core customer with money in their pockets and no reason to not drive to the mall.

Less than a week into his role as J.C. Penney’s chief merchant, John Tighe revealed losing his mother to breast cancer and the retailer’s ambitious fundraising plans that kick in during October.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and J.C. Penney has launched a range of initiatives to raise awareness and funds. For starters, the company is asking customers throughout the month of October to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar.

 Discount retailer 99 Cents Only Stores has come up with an odd new promotion to celebrate those who are becoming, “official 99ers.”
 
The company is known for offering door buster 99 cent specials on limited quantities at store grand openings and its latest promotion is also designed to capitalize on the 99 connection by featuring those turning 99 in direct mail ads.
 

Even though Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, a National Retail Federation consumer survey projects spending will decline compared to last year.

Amazon is using its winning of five Emmys on Sunday at the 67th Annual Emmy Awards to throw its competitors yet another fastball.

The company is reducing the price of its Amazon Prime loyalty program, which includes unlimited free two-day shipping, from $99 per year to $67 for one year. The catch is the deal will only run for 24 hours, between midnight Sept. 25 and ending midnight Sept. 26.

Kroger’s annual Leadership Summit will begin in unconventional fashion when thousands of employees form a human breast cancer awareness ribbon Sept. 29 on the field of Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati.