Marketing Tactics

Some two decades ago Times Square underwent a radical transformation from New York City’s sin center to its version of Disneyland, a magnet of bright lights of wholesome fare that has become a must-stop for all tourists.  

Target is bringing back its retail accelerator program for a second round.   On the heels of the first Target + Techstars retail accelerator, the retailer said it has opened applications for a second round of the program yesterday, inviting retail-specific tech startups worldwide to apply for a chance to relocate to Minneapolis and embed themselves at Target.  

Amazon has a new perk for its Prime members.   Through its partnership with Chase, Amazon is introducing the new Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card. Available exclusively to Amazon Prime members, the card offers users 5% back on all Amazon.com purchases, and rewards members for other purchases, including 2% back at restaurants, gas stations and drug stores, and 1% back on every other purchase.  

Zappos is hitting the road.   The online footwear retailer famous for its customer service is embarking on a year-long road show to show its gratitude to loyal customers nationwide. The event will feature merchandise, special events and one-of-a-kind experiences.   “At Zappos, we know there are real people behind each online transaction. And we wanted a way to celebrate and thank you for your loyalty — personally,” the company’s website said.  

Aeropostale, the teen apparel retailer that most of the industry had written off as dead, has risen like a Phoenix.     Starting this week, the company is reopening more than 500 doors across the United States. In February, Aéropostale will kick off its spring 2017 marketing campaign, which is designed to showcase the brand’s trans-formation under its new owners. The campaign will be in the stores as well as online and through social media.    

United Airlines has taken over the windows of one of the nation’s most iconic department stores.   Saks Fifth Avenue on Wednesday unveiled United Airlines Polaris-themed windows at the retailer’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City.     

Retailers may need a new way to track their Twitter activity.   As of Feb. 3, the social media platform will shut down Twitter Dashboard, a service that enables businesses to track tweets about their brands, monitor keywords, schedule posts, and access analytics, among other functionality, according to TechCrunch.   

Ascena Retail Group Inc. cut its earnings outlook as poor sales moved it into a highly promotional stance during the holiday period.   The operator of Ann Taylor, Loft, Dressbarn, Lane Bryant, Maurices and Catherines said total same-same sales declined 3.1% during the November/December period.