Sales & Marketing

Retailers remain stuck when it comes to Internet of Things (IoT) initiatives, according to “The Internet of Things in Retail: Getting Beyond the Hype.”   The second annual report from RSR shows that retailers are increasingly aware of the impact of IoT on customer engagement and competitive advantage. Yet, they are still hesitant to invest in cutting edge technologies due to operational challenges and a lack of supporting infrastructure.  

Documents revealed what might be the next on Amazon’s physical retail drawing board.   New permit documents revealed a sneak peek into what could be one of the online giant’s first drive-up grocery locations, according to GeekWire.   

In a move that will help it focus on its North American stores, Staples is selling its Australia- and New Zealand-based operations.   Staples announced Tuesday, March 13, that private equity firm Platinum Equity will acquire these stores for an undisclosed sum. The transaction is expected to close in the second calendar quarter of 2017.  

Neiman Marcus posted another quarter of declines for its second quarter.   For the period ended January 28, 2017, the chain reported total revenues of $1.40 billion, a decrease of 6.1% compared to $1.49 billion for the second quarter of fiscal year 2016. Comparable revenues decreased 6.8%.   

As shoppers demand a streamlined, more personalized shopping experience, retailers are adopting solutions that can draw customers into their stores.   This was revealed in the “ICSC Retail Technology Survey.” The report, which was conducted February 16-19, surveyed 1,022 adults 18 years of age and older.   Consumers of all ages want more access to information — and they expect retailers to respond to this demand.   

Shoptalk has announced a partnership with the Retail Industry Leaders Association focused on RILA’s newly launched (R)Tech Center for Innovation.   Through the partnership, Shoptalk will support the (R)Tech Center for Innovation as a member of the (R)Tech Innovators Network.   

Gander Mountain has filed for bankruptcy, but it is proactively seeking a buyer.    The sporting goods retailer, which announced Friday, March 10 that it has filed for Chapter 11 protection, said it will pursue a “going concerns sale,” enabling it to function without the threat of liquidation for the foreseeable future.   

Destination XL is expanding its presence in North America.   The male apparel retailer is opening its first Canadian store in Ajax, Ontario. The 5,028-sq.-ft. location features more than 100 brands and thousands of styles from top designers, including Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren, Buffalo Jeans, Nautica, Levi’s and Cole Haan, as well as exclusive brands, such as Brooks Brothers and Lacoste. Private-label brands Harbor Bay, 28 Degrees, Oak Hill and True Nation, round out the assortment, DXL said.