Packaging

Shoppers have wasted no time in getting started with their holiday purchases this year, according to a new survey.

The National Retail Federation’s Consumer Holiday Spending Survey shows that 56.6% of those celebrating the holidays had already started shopping by early November, up from 54.4% last year and 16% from the 49% who had started by this time in 2008, the first time NRF asked the question. This also marks the highest percentage seen in that timeframe.

Experts and regular folks alike are puzzled by the uproar over Starbucks’ holiday cup design, the Associated Press reported. Even New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan sounded a curious note, saying "I don't think it's like Starbucks had the Christmas crib on their cups to begin with.” [Associated Press]

Single adults, a lucrative demographic that now comprises half the U.S. population, continues to be overlooked or misrepresented by U.S. marketers and retailers, according to a report by retail marketing agency TPN and market insights firm C+R Research.

The study, "Millions of Singles, Billions at Stake: The Rise of the New Independents," busts myths and stereotypes to help brands and retailers understand, engage and celebrate singles.

Marketers know that image is crucial to digital sales, but that doesn’t mean they are making a big effort.

According to a new infographic based on a survey of 200 marketers from visual marketing platform provider Curalate, 86% of marketers agree that “type of channel” is important when selecting images to use in marketing initiatives. Yet, 78% still share the same images across all or most channels

With plans to double in size over the next two years, the fast-casual Newk’s Eatery chain is on the fast-track. And it is testing a new design prototype to help it accomplish its goal.

Dubbed the "Generation Two" design, the new concept represents a fresh, on-trend look for the brand, and is designed to resonate in new markets and elevate the overall guest experience.

Godiva Chocolatier has opened an in-store boutique in Macy’s Herald Square flagship in Manhattan.

Shoppers can create their own bespoke assortment of chocolates in the shop, which is accented with the brand’s signature gold throughout. The boutique features the largest chocolate case in North America. It’s also the first to include a large communal table, complimented by café seating.

Sports Authority wants to help customers stay healthy, wherever they are.

The full-line sporting goods retailer has launched its new BodyFit Personal Training app. This free app gives customers exclusive access to more than 100 fitness training videos and provides guidance on how to use Sports Authority’s proprietary BodyFit sports and exercise equipment.

Ulta Beauty is not only “Ultra-beautiful,”  according to television personality Ellen DeGeneres, it’s also “Ultra-generous.”

Capping off a partnership during the month of October with DeGeneres to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research, Ulta CEO Mary Dillon appeared on the popular talk show and presented the host with a $2 million check made out to the Breast Cancer Reseach Foundation.