Distribution

Studies indicate that online shoppers abandon websites that do not offer free returns shipping. This only makes sense, as the allure of e-commerce is convenience, a broad selection of merchandise, and competitive prices. Free shipping — from delivery through return — keeps the total purchase price similar to in-store shopping.

But there are two sides to free returns.

1. Free Returns Increase Sales

Nordstrom plans to relocate its Nordstrom Rack store from 280 Metro Center to the redeveloped Serramonte Center in Daly City, California.

The approximately 40,000-sq.ft. store is scheduled to open in fall 2017. The redeveloped property is owned by Equity One.

Nordstrom will join fellow anchors Target, JC Penney, Macy's and Dick's Sporting Goods. The new location is just across Highway 280 from the current Nordstrom Rack.

Ross Stores Inc. is continuing an aggressive growth strategy for both its Ross Dress for Less and DD’s Discount banners. The new store openings are part of the retailer’s 2015 expansion program, totaling approximately 90 new locations during the year.

Ross Dress for Less will open four new stores on Oct. 10. These include two new stores in the Chicago area: a 25,000-sq.-ft. store in Palatine located in the Deer Grove Centre, and a 24,000-sq.-ft. Joliet store is located in Joliet Commons.

The bankrupt Haggen supermarket chain has listed 111 locations for sale, many in California, as the company looks to refocus its operations on 37 stores in the Pacific Northwest.

Between new formats, e-commerce efforts and supply chain initiatives, interesting times are ahead for Bed Bath & Beyond – even if second quarter sales were weak and profits declined.

E-commerce sales surged at Pier 1 Imports during the second quarter, but the retailers overall sales grew less than expected and the company lowered its full year outlook.

Total sales increased 2.7% to $430 million and same-store sales increased 2.5%. Excluding the effects of the stronger U.S. dollar, total sales increased 4% and same-store sales increased 3.8%.

Life just got a little easier for merchants who sell goods on Shopify. The cloud-based e-commerce platform is partnering with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for direct, discounted shipping.

Retailers can now buy and print discounted shipping labels directly within the Shopify platform. Labels will be up to 60% off retail rates. In addition to saving money when purchasing shipping labels, merchants will now have the ability to either drop prepaid shipments off at USPS offices without having to wait in line, or they can schedule a free home pickup.