Business Intelligence (BI)

By Jason Glassberg, co-founder of Casaba

Target’s massive data breach continues to reverberate in the headlines, but in reality it’s just one of countless attacks that affect the retail industry on a daily basis. Whether it’s highly sophisticated malware developed out of Russia, local hit-and-run point-of-sale thieves or insider threats, retailers must adapt to this increasingly risky environment.

By Jim Rallo, president, retail supply chain group, Liquidity Services Inc.

The retail industry has seen its fair share of challenges in recent years with decreased foot traffic through stores as consumers move online to purchase products. Regardless of where consumers purchase goods, returns are an issue with the NRF estimating the amount of merchandise returned in 2013 totaling $267.3 billion.

Washington, D.C. – A rising percentage of online U.S. adults report experiencing breaches of their personal data. According to newly released data from the Pew Research Center, 18% of online adults have had important personal information stolen, such as their Social Security Number, credit card, or bank account information.

Social sharing, editorial commerce and improved targeting are said to be among the technological upgrades leading footwear brand and retailer Steve Madden has made to its Web site.

nGage Labs, a leading provider of personalized mobile engagement technology, has named Dave Alberty as CFO.

Alberty was most recently SVP and global controller of TriVita, a multi-national supplement company based in Scottsdale, Ariz.

DSW and Town Shoes Limited have entered into a definitive agreement whereby DSW will purchase for cash approximately 44% interest in Town Shoes, the largest footwear and accessories retailer in Canada, for CAD $68 million — or approximately $62 million based on current exchange rates.

The transaction has been approved by each company's board of directors and is expected to close in May, subject to customary closing conditions.

Basel, Switzerland – Switzerland’ largest food retailer, Coop, has rolled out Reflexis Task Manager to its stores. Coop uses the application to: communicate efficiently and effectively between corporate, field, and stores; improve planning; and benefit from feedback, sharing of best practices, and real-time visibility into task execution.

Cheshunt, U.K. -- Tesco U.K. buyers and category managers are using KSS Retail PriceStrat’s science and analytical tools to help plan and understand the impact of potential offers. Facing increased competition and consumer price sensitivity due to a slow economic recovery, Tesco has made price and promotion key areas of focus.

New York – Retail marketers say social media and digital, customer data and brand awareness are their top three marketing challenges. Findings from a retail marketing survey SAP conducted with University of Arizona students also showed that survey participants said 100% of respondents cited digital advertising among the most important marketing tools for their organization.

London – Big Data technology provider ECommera has named Kevin Sterneckert as chief marketing officer. Sterneckert, who most recently served as the lead retail analyst for Gartner, brings with him more than 20 years of experience in retail leadership.