Research Topic

SEATTLE — Amazon.com enjoyed tremendous sales growth in the fourth quarter, but it came at a steep price as expenses grew faster than sales due to investments to support future growth.

Boston -- A report released Wednesday by Boston Consulting Group said that, while 96% of companies are using Facebook and 83% are using Twitter, few have an overall marketing strategy that incorporates digital and includes clear metrics for success.

The report, Marketing Capabilities for the Digital Age, presents the findings of a BCG survey of marketing executives at 31 major corporations globally and presents an overview of the digital landscape.

Oakbrook, Terrace, Ill. -- A report released Monday by Mid-America Real Estate Corp. suggested that new shopping center construction in and around Chicago could ramp up significantly after this year.

According to the 2011-12 Chicagoland Shopping Center Report, with a 13.4% decrease in new shopping center GLA in Chicagoland last year, 2011will likely mark the bottom of a four-year decline in retail center construction. After a flat 2012, shopping center development could double in 2013, according to Andy Bulson, author of the report.
 

New York City -- A survey released Tuesday by Accenture showed that when it comes to customer loyalty, poor service can cause customers to abandon one company in favor of another.

The Accenture Global Consumer Survey found that 66% of consumers switched companies – including wireless phone, cable and utilities – as a result of poor customer service in 2011, even as their satisfaction with the services provided by those companies rose overall.

Clearwater, Fla. -- Boat retailer MarineMax reported Tuesday that it narrowed its loss in the fiscal first quarter to $4.2 million, from $4.7 million in the year-ago period. The company’s net loss was reduced by $1.4 million related to favorable resolution with a manufacturer whose brands the company no longer carries.

Revenue dipped to $91.8 million for the quarter, from $92.2 million. Same-store sales edged up 2%.

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. — Ahead of the toy industry's annual convention this February, The NPD Group has reported that U.S. retail sales of toys generated $21.18 billion in 2011 compared with $21.68 billion in 2010, a decline of 2%. 

North Plainfield, N.J. -- A survey released Monday by Levin Management Corp., which polled retailers within its 12.5 million-sq.-ft. shopping center portfolio in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York, found a general feeling of post-holiday optimism.

New York City -- Using Experian Marketing Services’ comprehensive cross-channel capabilities to help improve customer experience and drive engagement, JoS. A. Bank Clothiers and Experian received a Database Excellence Award from the National Center for Data Management (NCDM).