Data & Analytics

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.  

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.

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.  

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.   

Macy’s, Inc. has named Elisa D. Garcia as chief legal officer, effective Sept. 7, succeeding Dennis J. Broderick, who is retiring after 29 years.   Garcia, 58, has served in the same capacity for Office Depot since 2013. She was executive VP/general counsel for Domino’s Pizza prior to that.  

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.  

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.  

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.