Consumer Analytics

Birchbox is launching a new, pricier service.   The online beauty subscription retailer will debut a service that enables shoppers to better customize their monthly box of samples, along with other perks, TechCrunch said.    The service, which is only currently available to current subscribers, is $14 per month. The original subscription is $10 per month.

It seems information security programs are not keeping up with the pace of evolving cyber-threats.   As more companies support Internet of Things (IoT) and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) programs, they become bigger targets to savvy cyber-criminals. This threat grows more serious when 66% of IT security professionals aren't sure how many devices are even in their environment.  

Whole Foods Market, which is known for its premier shopping experience and customer service, wants to up the ante — especially among loyal shoppers.    By partnering with global customer science company dunnhumby, the natural foods grocer will use customer data and insights to evolve its category management and merchandising efforts. Specifically, the chain will apply customer data models, science, and industry-leading processes to make store-level merchandising decisions based on specific customer needs.  

When it comes to securing their online data, Americans have more confidence in online marketplaces than traditional retailers.   Fifty-four percent of Americans who shop online trust online marketplaces such as eBay and Amazon, with their financial information, according to a report by Blumberg Capital. In contrast, only 33% of consumers trust established retail brands such as Walmart, Gap, Target, and Macy’s.    

Cosabella has found a way to future-proof its business, and simultaneously drive sales.   The luxury lingerie brand had no trouble attracting shoppers. But to ensure longevity, brands must convert contacts into loyal customers if they want to grow their market share. Cosabella took a proactive step in this process by adopting an artificial intelligence (AI) platform from Emarsys, to revolutionize the role of its marketers.  

More customers are making digital payments through Pay with Amazon.   In 2016, more than 33 million customers have used Amazon Payments to make a purchase, according to the retailer.  

Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento released its annual sales report this week and verified the fact that not all traditional malls are on the endangered list.   The 1,112,000-sq.-ft. property, owned by Arden Fair Associates and managed by Macerich, showed consistent month to month growth through 2016, capped by a 10% year-over-year sales increase in December, according to the accounting.  

Not only was the 2017 Super Bowl a game for the record books, it also drove shoppers to their favorite e-grocers to prep for the big game.   As time-pressed Americans football fans shopped with online grocers for game day necessities, they spent more than $150.18 per order — just a few cents more than the average cart size of all goods purchased on Black Friday, which was $149.68.