Data & Analytics

A new deal between IBM and The Weather Company promises to give retailers and suppliers access to a new range of insights to drive all manner of demand forecasting, merchandising and replenishment decision-making.

New York - Consumers are reaching a saturation point when it comes to their level of engagement in loyalty and rewards programs. According to a new survey commissioned by Bond Brand Loyalty, while the number of programs in which members are enrolled continues to grow, from about 10 programs per member on average in 2014 to more than 13 per member in 2015, the number of programs in which members are active is not experiencing a corresponding increase.

Ann Arbor, Mich. – Pizza and TV are a natural pairing, and Domino’s Pizza is doing its part to bring them closer together than ever before. Domino’s is now letting customers order food via their Samsung Smart TV.

Amazon is leveraging a hot trend in toys and education with a new online store focused on what is known as STEM.

The shop will feature a variety of toys and games that are focused on encouraging kids to develop science (S), technology (T), engineering (E) and/or math-related (M) skills.

Seattle – Amazon.com is addressing the need for more science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education with the launch of a new online store focused on toys and games that help kids learn STEM subjects and ideas.

In addition to focusing on the core subjects, STEM also focuses on how they relate to each other and the real world.

According to Amazon, it selected the initial assortment of STEM toys because they “have clear goals and encourage kids to learn STEM skills while having fun.”

Dollar General is thinking digital this spring with a new way to appeal to coupon-clipping customers.

The retailer is launching a new digital coupon program called Fast Way to Save that offers customers approximately $200 each week in online coupon savings now through April 19.

Customers will see additional weekly specials on dozens of discounts on Easter merchandise and a buy-one, get-one free sale on select apparel and accessories, as well as its everyday low prices on thousands of items throughout the store.

Atlanta -- Deployment of in-store Wi-Fi had the most significant positive impact on retail sales and loyalty of any technology initiative, according to a survey by IHL Group. Almost half of the participating retailers claimed increased customer loyalty due to deploying in-store employee Wi-Fi, with an associated 3.4% increase in sales. One-third of retailers (28%) reported increased customer loyalty due to deploying in-store customer Wi-Fi, with an associated 2% increase in sales.

By Anne Marie Stephen

Brands, retailers and technologists convened at Retail Loco at South by Southwest Interactive, Sunday, March 15, 2015 hosted by Location Based Marketing Association. The event focused on how companies are leveraging location solutions and data for better business. The LBMA is a global not-for-profit association with over 1,000 member companies including media, retail, brands, agencies and technology companies.