Omnichannel

New York -- A disconnect between chief marketing officers and chief information officers threatens the ability of companies to deliver effective customer experiences, according to a new study by Accenture. Only one-in-10 of executives believing collaboration between CMOs and CIOs is currently at the right level.

WEST CHESTER, Pa. — Leading video and e-commerce retailer QVC has launched a second broadcast channel, QVC Plus. QVC Plus will maintain the QVC brand and television experience including shows, exclusive products and program hosts, airing on a three-hour delay of QVC's current live broadcast.

New York -- Target Corp. executives discussed the chain’s omni-channel initiatives on the company’s second quarter conference call with investors. Target’s executive VP merchandising and supply chain, Kathryn Tesija highlighted the company's investments in flexible fulfillment, including plans to expand a program allowing customers to buy items online and pick them up at the store the same day, starting in the third quarter.

By John Bajorek, wdpartners.com

It’s easy to get sidetracked by tactics when rethinking retail design and conceptualizing the store of the future. It’s easier still to grow enamored of the potential of technology and consumer data to transform every aspect of the in-store experience.  

Kearney, Neb. -- The Buckle’s net income rose 8% in the second quarter on improved sales. The apparel retailer earned $25.1 million for the three months ended Aug. 3, compared to $23.2 million a year ago.

Revenue grew 8%, to $232.5 million from $215.5 million. Online sales rose 5.3%. Same-store increased 3.2%, short of analysts expectations.
 

Wellesley, Mass. -- In a pilot at its Matthews, N.C. store, Harris Teeter, which was recently acquired by The Kroger Co., is using Paydiant's white label mobile wallet solution as part of its Express Lane online shopping service in Matthews, N.C., beginning this month. The deployment allows the Express Lane customers to use the Harris Teeter mobile wallet called “HT Express Pay” to pay for groceries ordered online. Payment will occur from within a customer’s vehicle at Express Lane curbside pick-up locations.

Dallas -- Neiman Marcus has launched its online Beauty Product Specialist Program offering online customers the personalized counter experience they would receive in a Neiman Marcus store.

"Through this program our customers can expect to receive guidance on skincare regimes, makeup application, and choosing a personal scent," said Kelly St. John, Neiman Marcus Direct VP, divisional merchandise manager, beauty.

WAYNE, N.J. — It may be August, but Toys"R"Us is getting a jump on the holiday season. The retailer is expanding its price match guarantee on items available at its Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us stores nationwide to include selected online retailer pricing.