Data & Analytics

Chicago -- Year-over-year GAFO retail sales increased a slight 2.3% or the week ending Dec. 4, according to ShopperTrak’s National Retail Sales Estimate (NRSE), while the company’s Retail Traffic Index (SRTI) reported foot traffic remained flat for the same period.

Minneapolis -- Target on Wednesday outlined a series of comprehensive sustainability commitments. The retailer set several key milestones for resource use, waste elimination and carbon footprint reduction, which the company aims to achieve by 2016, including earning the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star designation for at least 75% of its buildings.

Target’s other 2016 goals are:

New York City -- Two of Russia's largest grocery store chains, Pyaterochka and Kopeika, said on Monday that they would merge their operations in a move that would better position them to compete with Wal-Mart Stores, which is expected to enter the Russian market, according to the New York Times.

Hingham, Mass. -- The Talbots on Tuesday said its third-quarter profit rose 17% on cost-cutting. But its revenue fell and the retailer offered weak fourth-quarter guidance and cut its full-year outlook.

Tampa, Fla. -- Retail consultants RPE announced the successful implementation of retail applications from JDA Software Group at Vineyard Vines. The specific applications were chosen to quickly address concerns relative to inventory control, business intelligence/analysis and point-of-sale.

Mooresville,  N.C. -- Sales at Lowes.com are running about 35% ahead of last year, according to CEO Robert Niblock, who spoke to analysts during the retailer's recent Analyst and Investors Conference. Still, the Mooresville, N.C.-based home improvement giant has ideas on how to improve its digital business.

During the event, Niblock explained an important part of the retailer's vision: "Whenever, wherever the customer wants to interact with us, we're going to try and make it convenient for them."