Predictive Analytics

Whiting, Ind. -- Survey results released Wednesday by CouponCabin.com found that one in five smartphone owners have visited a store after receiving notification that specials, coupons or deals were available nearby.

The survey – conducted by Harris Interactive – also found that 70% of smartphone owners would be at least somewhat influenced to make an unplanned purchase at a store after receiving this type of alert.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Retail Velocity and SAP Applications have expanded their partnership to develop and launch the Velocity Demand Data Streaming Service, which will integrate data streams from retailers and distributors and show manufacturers the impact consumers have on the supply chain.

Oak Brook, Ill. -- McDonald's Corp. reported Friday that net income for the quarter ended March 31 rose about 1% to $1.27 billion, from $1.26 billion last year. Total revenue also rose 1%, to $6.6 billion from $6.5 billion.

Same-store sales dipped, however, impacted said McDonald’s by a tightened eating-out environment during the quarter.

At home, same-store sales dipped 1.2%.

By Gregg Clark, [email protected]

A Web site affiliated with noted television investment pundit Jim Cramer has reiterated its buy recommendation on shares of Walmart.

TheStreet.com rated Walmart A+ and said the company’s strengths can be seen in areas such as revenue growth, notable return on equity, solid stock price performance, growth in earnings per share and net income.

"We feel these strengths outweigh the fact that the company shows weak operating cash flow," according to the TheStreet.

ATLANTA — Supply chain solutions company Predictix has appointed Ronald P. Menich, Ph.D., as its new EVP and chief scientist. 

Predictix provides retailers and brands with platforms and tools that enable them to drive competitive advantage and market differentiation. 

Softer than expected sales trends prompted Target to lower its first quarter earnings outlook Tuesday morning.

The company said it now expects first quarter comps to be flat, after previously forecasting a range of flat to 2% growth. The softer than expected sales prompted the company to revise first quarter adjusted profit expectations to an unspecified level of "slightly below" earlier guidance of $1.10 to $1.20.

New York -- Survey results by Deloitte, released Tuesday, found that even as the economy improves, 94% of Americans indicate they will remain cautious and keep their spending for food, beverage and household goods at its current level.

According to Deloitte's 2013 American Pantry Study, 92% indicated they have become more resourceful, and 86% say they are getting more precise in what they buy -- attitudes that have remained consistent in the three years Deloitte has conducted the study, and across income levels.