News

Despite increasing loyalty program membership enrollments, retailers continue to miss opportunities to satisfy shoppers.   Brands continue to invest more in loyalty programs, and enrollment has grown by 31% over the last four years. However, retailers are overlooking opportunities that will drive business results, according to “The Loyalty Report 2017.”  

Despite social media’s growing presence in many consumers’ lives, it is not the ideal platform for brand interaction.   That's according to the “2017 Generational Marketing Insights Survey,” from Campaigner, the email marketing brand of j2 Global. According to findings, less than a quarter (24%) of online shoppers use social media as one of their preferred channels for brand interaction. And it seems that not all social media channels are created equal.  

Target Corp. has resolved its 2013 data breach with a deal that represents the largest multi-state data breach settlement in history.   The retailer agreed to pay a total of $18.5 million to settle the case. The money will go to 47 states and the District of Columbia, with California receiving the largest share of  the settlement, more than $1.4 million.    

Albertsons Companies has added two key hires to help it expand its digital capabilities.   

A current retail CEO and a former one found themselves at odds on Tuesday at a Capitol Hill hearing on the proposed border adjustment tax.    “Under the new border adjustment tax, American families – your constituents – would pay more so many multinational corporations can pay even less,” said Target CEO Brian Cornell. “Eighty-five percent of Americans shop at Target every year. We believe this new tax would hit those families hard, raising prices on everyday essentials by up to 20%.”

Soft Surroundings is making moves to create more customer-centric assortments.   The St. Louis-Missouri-based fashion retailer’s goal is to help customers maintain their unique sense of style without sacrificing comfort. This was becoming a challenge through its spreadsheet-based planning processes. With an eye on driving more customer-centric assortments across its growing chain, the company knew it was time for a change.  

There is a good chance that the shopping center as its exists today will look completely different 10 years from now.   

Retailers who want a prime location but also one that’s affordable should check out Philadelphia, Chicago and Seattle.  

Lolli & Pops has entered into a partnership to grow its store portfolio.

The retailer, which specializes in high-end sweets and confectionary treats, is teaming up with retail real estate company GGP Inc. to open 30 new locations.  

TJX Cos. is importing one of its Canadian/European brands to the United States.