News | Chain Store Age

Consumer confidence ticks down in January amid future concerns
Consumer confidence declined in January as consumers grew more pessimistic about business conditions for the next six months.
Study: Nearly half of consumers to spend less during next three months
Despite easing inflation, American consumers are proceeding with caution — and changing the way they shop in some instances.

TECHNOLOGY
Forever 21 completes online checkout upgrade
Forever 21 is providing a digital shopping experience that includes seamless one-click checkout on its e-commerce site and app.
News
U.S. recession unlikely in 2023, says NRF economist
The economy is expected to see slight growth this year as consumers continue to deal with inflation and high interest rates.
OPERATIONS / SUPPLY CHAIN
REI headquarters ‘restructuring’ involves layoffs
REI has made some organizational changes at its headquarters in Kent, Wash.
TECHNOLOGY
These two factors are key to satisfactory online customer help
Customers seeking assistance are looking for two specific features in their experience.
ERP/CRM
Gap Inc. to outsource its supply chain platform to small- to-mid-sized businesses
Gap Inc. has entered into a partnership with a subsidiary of UPS to open its fulfillment centers to small-to-mid-sized businesses.
FINANCE
Costco same-store sales up in January but e-commerce sales tumble
Costco Wholesale Corp.’s sales rose in January even with the shifting of a holiday.
C-SUITE
BDO: Retailers reducing overall inventory, taking on more debt
Retail CFOs are feeling cautiously optimistic despite inflation and ongoing supply chain issues.
TECHNOLOGY
CSA Exclusive: Kroger Precision Marketing VP of media strategy
The Kroger Co. is keeping the capabilities of its retail media network current with consumer and technology trends.
ECOMMERCE
Kroger expands fast delivery model to South Florida
The Kroger Co. is opening of a new spoke facility in South Florida.
REAL ESTATE
Aldi, H-E-B top JLL list of fastest-growing grocers
A small-format discount grocer and regional powerhouse ranked as the fastest-growing U.S. supermarket retailers in 2022, by new stores and total square footage respectively.
TECHNOLOGY
Cole Haan begins enterprise transformation at the POS
Cole Haan is deploying a new, open enterprise architecture.
ENERGY/HVAC
WS Development to rid greenhouse gas emissions from its New England centers
Deal with NRG Energy will affect Boston’s Seaport District and 35 other properties

Latest business news covering the retail industry.