Research Topic

Cross-border online retail is on an upward trajectory, and a catalyst for domestic retailers to grow their businesses.   That’s according to “The 21st Century Spice Trade: A Guide to the Cross-Border E-Commerce Opportunity,” a report form DHL Express. Based on responses from more than 1,800 retailers and manufacturers in six countries, the study details the markets and products that offer the highest growth potential, and motivate customers to buy internationally.   

More shoppers are buying groceries online, but a majority are ready to switch grocers in favor of a better online experience.   This is according to the “2017 Grocery eCommerce Forecast,” a report from Unata, which surveyed over 500 U.S. shoppers about online grocery shopping habits, intent and barriers. Details revealed that 31% of U.S. shoppers are likely to order groceries online in 2017, up from 19% of shoppers that bought groceries online in 2016.   

The number of bankruptcy filings by U.S. retailers nearly doubled in 2016, and 2017 looks bleak for the industry.   That is according to a report by The Deal, a business unit of TheStreet.  

Consumer confidence slipped slightly in January after reaching a 15-year high in December, though outlook for the present overrode the outlook for the future.   The index now stands at 111.8 (less than an expected 113), down from 113.3 the previous month.  

Identity fraud is at an all-time high, and despite industry efforts, fraudsters continue to rack up victims.   According to the “2017 Identity Fraud Study,” the number of victims increased by 16%, rising to 15.4 million U.S. consumers in the last year — a record high since Javelin Strategy & Research began tracking identity fraud in 2003.   

For the 28th consecutive year, Chain Store Age will recognize active shopping center owners, managers and acquirers for projects, contracts and transactions completed during last year.   The annual “Fastest-Growing” awards measure development, acquisition and third-party management activities for full-year 2016.   

After a decade-long increase, Valentine’s Day sales may be less rosy this year.   U.S. consumers are expected to spend an average $136.57, down from last year’s record-high $146.84. Total spending is expected to reach $18.2 billion, down from $19.7 billion last year, which was also a record, according to the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics, which surveyed 7,591 consumers about their Valentine’s Day plans.