Data & Analytics

RetailNext releases RetailNext 5.1
San Jose, Calif. -- RetailNext is releasing the latest version of its in-store analytics platform, RetailNext 5.1. New features in RetailNext 5.1 are multiple video stream export, Micros XBR integration, Japanese-language support for user interface and reports, appliance security improvements, and more.
VenueLabs launches free social listening tool
Seattle –- VenueLabs is launching a free social listening tool geared for small businesses called AboutLocal. AboutLocal lets small retailers listen to and engage with customers in real time across hundreds of disparate channels.

Report: Wal-Mart centralizes IT approach

Santa Clara, Calif. –- Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is reportedly developing a new centralized approach to how it prioritizes and executes IT projects. According to the Wall Street Journal, Wal-Mart will now consolidate all IT projects into a single portfolio overseen by CIO Karenann Terrell.
CVS/pharmacy awarded LEED Platinum for store in New Haven, Conn.

Woonsocket, R.I. -- CVS Health said that the CVS/pharmacy store in West Haven, Conn., has been awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum certification. It the first CVS store to be certified with the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest distinction and the retailer’s eighth LEED-certified building. 
Disrupting the Downturn — Avoiding the Lost Sale

By Farla Efros, HRC Advisory
Commentary: Chip-and-PIN Increases Cybersecurity

By Sandy Kennedy, president of RILA  (Editor’s note: The president of the Retail Industry Leaders Association, Sandy Kennedy, wrote the following op-ed in The Hill, discussing why chip-and-PIN is one important layer of protection retailers, banks and the government can provide consumers.)
Golfsmith International opens at Downtown Summerlin

Las Vegas -- Golfsmith International, the world's largest specialty golf retailer, has opened a 23,000-sq.ft. store in the just-opened Downtown Summerlin center, located outside of Las Vegas.
U.K. retailer Lakeland selects OrderDynamics for customer service
Canadian digital revolution coming to America

Revolutionary has become the most overused term in the retail industry and the latest company to apply that description to its retail offering is ironically called Retailcommon.
Mixed Use: A Mixed Bag

By Bruce Leonard and John Cumbelich
Staples investigating possible data breach

Framingham, Mass. -- Staples Inc. is reportedly investigating a possible data breach. According to security blogger Brian Krebs, sources at several East Coast-based banks say it is likely that criminals gained access to customer card data at a group of Northeastern Staples stores including seven stores in Pennsylvania, at least three in New York City, and one in New Jersey.
American Express: Holiday shopping on smartphones and tablets up 53% in two years

New York -- Using smartphones and tablets to shop for the holidays has grown by 53% since 2012, and is expected to play a big role in decision making and actual purchases this year, according to the American Express Spending & Saver Tracker. The report finds the average American consumer is back to holiday spending at 2012 levels, and will plan to shell out $842 this year (vs. $1,260 in 2013 and $848 in 2012). Consumers saying they will use their gadgets to: