Retail

Target’s omnichannel journey may have started five years ago, but newly-emerging digital touchpoints continue to change the game.   By leveraging machine learning to tap into customer demand, the mass merchandiser is defining which touchpoints are not only valuable, but influencing its shoppers’ paths-to-purchase. The initiative was discussed at the “Determining New Omni-KPIs To Hit Goals And Key Drivers” session at eTail West 2017, in Palm Springs, California, Feb. 27-March 2.  

A cool store from a cooler (literally) and drinkwear company, Yeti’s first physical outpost celebrates the fast-growing brand, which is known for standing up to the harshest conditions.    

Virginia’s new law is a coup for robotics.   The commonwealth is the first state to pass legislation allowing delivery robots to operate on sidewalks and crosswalks across the state, according to ReCode.  

Wet Seal was acquired at a bankruptcy auction by a firm that plans to rebuild the brand.    Gordon Brothers announced it is acquiring the Wet Seal brand and its related intellectual property. The transaction is pending final court approval.   The acquisition includes the other brands within the Wet Seal portfolio, including Arden B, Blink, Chic Boutique and several others.   

Pandora UK is embarking on a new strategy to engage with shoppers post-purchase.   The jewelry retailer is partnering with Ecrebo to provide shoppers with digital receipts that are emailed to shoppers following their in-store transaction. When the receipt arrives in their inbox, shoppers have the option to opt-in to receive regular newsletters, and share feedback about their in-store experience.   

Amazon’s drive-through grocery store in Seattle is beginning to come more into view.    USA Today reported that Amazon has applied for a liquor license for the store, which the Internet giant has yet to comment on.   

Aldi is ready to introduce its brand to price-sensitive Chinese shoppers.   The German discount supermarket chain plans to start selling online in China this month, a move that will expose Chinese consumers to a selection of German wine, snacks and breakfast products, Reuters reported.    

J.C. Penney Company has added a former senior advisor to the director of the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), to its board of directors.   Debora Plunkett is joining the Penney board. Possessing extensive experience in cybersecurity, information assurance and innovation in information security, Plunkett has a deep understanding of the data-driven and interconnected world of today, the retailer said.