Data & Analytics

Walmart gave a lackluster profit outlook for next year, and said it will slow new store openings as it invests in remodels and digital initiatives.  

Simplicity is the name of the game for Giant Eagle’s new transportation endeavors.    It’s first step in this quest was to add a new transportation management system — a single platform designed to manage inbound and outbound transportation systems. Processes that were originally controlled by five systems are now streamlined through one core infrastructure. This new consolidated platform is also only piece within a much larger project: building a next-generation supply chain.  

Yesway has named Douglas New as its chief technology officer.   New will be responsible for mapping and implementing the convenience store chain’s technology strategy, including defining the execution plan for Yesway's e-commerce platform. He will also assist in helping the company achieve its goal acquiring 500 stores over the next several years, according to a company statement. He will report to Mark Daniels, the convenience store chain's chief strategy officer.  

Ascena Retail Group, whose brands include Ann Taylor, Justice, and Lane Bryant, announced organizational changes expected to provide cost-savings of $100 million to $150 million by fiscal 2019.   The changes will see a number of executives leave the company, although Ascena did not disclose who would be leave. Also, Brian Lynch, CEO and president of Justice, has been appointed company COO.  

New features give Google Home the boost needed to become a valid shopping assistant.   The device, designed to compete with Amazon’s Echo, was introduced at Google’s I/O event in May. However, new functionality was introduced at Google’s media event in Tuesday, reported Internet Retailer.  

Advance Auto Parts has appointed Thomas (Tom) Okray as executive VP, CFO, effective Oct. 31, 2016.    In a previously announced succession plan, Okray will succeed Mike Norona, who will remain with Advance Auto in an advisory role until the end of the year.   

It is not easy for a 100-plus year-old retailer to reimagine its retail strategy, but J.C. Penney is doing just that.   

UGG is driving a new level of engagement with loyal shoppers.   Starting today, shoppers nationwide are invited to join UGG Rewards, a loyalty program that awards shoppers with points for every purchase. The program, which was launched as a pilot among a limited customer base between September 2015 and June 2016, is now available to shoppers in-store and online throughout the United States.  

At a time when grocers are seeking ways to differentiate their e-commerce model, Natural Grocers is making a bold move just in time for Thanksgiving.   As an increasing number of shoppers are using online resources to make more informed decisions before making a purchase, Natural Grocers is launching an e-commerce service that enables shoppers to research and order their holiday turkey, and pick it up at their preferred store.   

Two major retail organizations delivered some early holiday cheer to retailers.   The National Retail Federation and the International Council of Shopping Centers issued their annual holiday forecasts on Tuesday, and both predicted holiday shoppers will spend more this year than they did last year.