Data & Analytics

Consumer confidence remains high despite contentious presidential race
Not even a political slug fest can shake the current consumer. The latest Nielsen Consumer Confidence Index showed that consumer confidence in the U.S. is on the rise, despite the uncertainty and starkly contrasting rhetoric around key economic issues. Per the Index, Americans remained optimistic in the second quarter with a three-point confidence increase to 113. In contrast, the global consumer confidence index for the same period was flat at 98. Other U.S. highlights include:
Survey: Apparel driving consumer spending across channels
No big surprise that apparel continues to be the most popular retail category across all channels, but what is noteworthy is that clothing purchases show no sign of slowing, particularly online. A survey by Onestop Internet revealed that the apparel category is driving online growth, with 45% of respondents saying they plan to buy more clothing online than any other retail category in the next 12 months.

Wendy’s shines light on customer experience

Joining the ranks of progressive burger chains that are jumping on the experience bandwagon, Wendy’s has engaged Service Management Group to measure the customer experience in all of its North America and international restaurants.
Survey: Back-to-school shopping will be done in physical stores

When it comes to back-to-school shopping, kids have all the power – and they strongly prefer shopping in-store. A recent study by Citi Retail Services revealed that kids wield extraordinary power over back-to-school purchase decisions, and those decisions include shopping for goods in physical stores.
CVS Health adjusted earnings for Q2 exceed analyst estimates

CVS Health on Tuesday reported an increase of 17.6% in net revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2016, to $43.7 billion.
Lifeway Christian Stores moves to improve operational efficiencies

Lifeway Christian Stores is upgrading its supply chain management with an eye to reducing inventory and increasing availability. Reflex Solutions, in collaboration with Columbus Consulting International, is deploying its supply chain software to improve the retailer’s inventory forecasting, replenishment and allocation processes.
Westfield, R/GA accelerator program seeks to redefine retail experience

A diverse mix of retail tech start-ups have been selected to participate in a program aimed at enhancing retail innovation.
Hhgregg seals its CEO deal

Hhgregg has completed its search for a permanent CEO by giving interim chief Robert Riesbeck the long-term nod. Riesbeck has held the interim title since February, when then-CEO Dennis May tendered his resignation. Now, with the top position becoming permanent, Riesbeck will give up his CFO title and the company will launch a new search for a replacement.
Report: Retail construction declines in June, but first half up year-over-year

Construction spending in the retail sector saw a dip in June, according to a report by the Associated General Contractors of America, but the first half of the year recorded an overall gain. Commercial (which includes retail, warehouse and farm) construction declined 1.6% in June, per the report, but climbed 8.6% year-to-date. Association officials said spending appears to have leveled off after a strong early start to the year prompted by mild winter weather conditions in many parts of the country.
Target’s IT chief turns to hiring as a top tech focus

Mike McNamara isn’t shy about making changes. Target Corp.’s chief information officer has launched a hiring spree aimed at turning Target into an engineering powerhouse. Click here for more.
Analysis: What Dollar Shave Club’s Sale Means For Retail

News of Dollar Shave Club’s recent $1 billion sale to global packaged-goods giant Unilever came like a splash of cold water to the face of most in the retail business. But it shouldn’t have come as a surprise. The booming success of subscription services is just the next step in the evolution towards seamless, contactless retail that emphasizes ease, convenience, common sense and just a touch of personality and cheeky humor.
August 2016 Weather Report

Temperatures for the U.S. will trend the warmest in at least five years. August begins with an active pattern along the East Coast with showers and thunderstorms. Heat will be building across the Central U.S. with a heat wave likely developing in the first week of August. The heat spreads to the East Coast later in the week. Another heat wave during the second retail week of the month will keep it feeling firmly like summer.