Data & Analytics

Holiday e-commerce sales in the U.S. are estimated to approach $90 billion in 2016, representing a 13% increase from 2015, according to Practical E-Commerce. This can be either a massive opportunity or a massive struggle for retailers depending on whether or not they’re prepared to handle their consumers’ online shopping activity.   

The rapid evolution of e-commerce has created a consistent channel for retailers and brands, giving brick-and-mortar stores a run for their money. Still, many vendors have yet to create engaging, timely experiences throughout the buyer’s journey.  

With the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention reporting more than 1,000 forborne outbreaks annually, Walmart is taking a proactive stance.  

Watch out Amazon, Walmart may be giving you a run for the money in the holiday toy aisles.    

Urban Outfitters posted sales and earnings for its third quarter that failed to meet analysts expectation amid a traffic slowdown and increased promotions at its Anthropologie and Free People stores.   Urban Outfitters earned $47 million, or 40 cents a share, in the third quarter ended Oct. 31, compared with $52 million, or 42 cents a share, in the year-ago period.   Sales rose 5% to $862 million, compared with $825 million a year ago. Same-store sales, which include online, rose 1%.  

Bed Bath & Beyond hopes its newest acquisition will help it “get personal” with its shoppers.  

To cut through the noise in a cluttered marketplace, Express Gifts is getting personal.    With 35,000 products sold and a growing online presence, web-based sales continue to drive significant turns for Express Gifts. However, to understand and influence their online visitors, the gifting retailer knew personalization was critical to extend the loyalty of their existing customer base, and increase market share.  

Frustrating digital experiences will land brands on the naughty list this holiday season.   In fact, 81% of frequent online shoppers said they have previously been frustrated with slow-loading websites, mobile sites or native mobile apps, with over three-quarters (76%) saying if a retailer’s web site or mobile site performs poorly they tend to avoid shopping there again.