Consumer Electronics

Retailers looking to maximize online revenues should utilize one specific digital promotional solution to create a sense of pleasure.

While most large retailers now offer omnichannel return capabilities, the experience may leave something to be desired.

According to The Omni-Returns Experience Report, a new study of 25 major retailers including Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Apple, Gap, Sears, J.C.Penney and Macy's from StellaService, more than 75% of evaluated retailers offer buy online, return in store (BORIS).

RANDOM NOTES: Microsoft made its Manhattan debut with a 22,369-sq.-ft. flagship on Fifth Avenue — its largest location yet. Designed in collaboration with Gensler, the store has a striking, all-glass facade that provides a full view of the contemporary, multi-level interior. High-definition video walls and digital signage are featured throughout the space, streaming video, images and information. A two-story video wall is located behind an “answer desk,” where shoppers can receive assistance and training. ...

The 45-acre Assembly Row in Boston breaks almost all the rules for the traditional model for outlet centers. Just three miles from downtown Boston, Assembly Row is an urban-style mixed-use center with a wide range of outlet retail options alongside entertainment components like LEGOLAND Discovery Center, AMC Theatres and over a dozen restaurants from Legal Sea Foods to Vancouver, B.C.-based Earls Kitchen + Bar.

So many new stores, so little space. Here are my top faves of the year:

The evolution of physical stores took center stage at Chain Store Age's X/SPECS, held at the Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Formerly called Executive SPECS, the event was rebranded this year to reflect how technology is transforming the customer experience and the in-store environment.

Project Owner: PREIT

Company HQ: Philadelphia

Project Location: Cherry Hill, New Jersey

Project Size: 1.3 million sq. ft.

Project Status: Open and operating

Company Website: www.preit.com

Asurion Retail Solutions has introduced an unlimited device protection plan to help retailers build stronger, more connected relationships with small businesses and consumers.

The new initiative is a first-to-retail product innovation, according to Asurion, that allows retailers to serve as a single-source destination for customers’ protection coverage needs across an unlimited number of devices purchased from any retailer.