TECHNOLOGY

Google launches home delivery service in 13 more states
Google is expanding the reach of its online delivery service. Beginning Tuesday, Oct. 25, Google Express is now available in another 13 states, according to USA Today. Shoppers access the online marketplace via Google’s web site or through an app. Deliveries, which are made by third party delivery companies, arrive within two days.
Best Buy upholds tradition of free holiday shipping
Looking to attract shoppers in what is expected to be a highly competitive season, Best Buy is waiving online shipping fees. For the second year in a row, the electronics retailer is offering free shipping on all online purchases — with no minimum threshold — made during the holiday shopping season. The perk will run between Oct. 25, and Jan. 2. Best Buy typically charges a fee for all orders below $35.

Off-price, online, health/beauty stores to pace strong holiday rebound

American consumers will generate an accelerating 4.1% year-over-year increase in 2016 holiday sales, well exceeding 2015’s tepid 3.6% growth.
Tech Bytes: A tale of three ‘experiential’ retailers

It doesn’t matter whether shoppers are buying a carton of milk or couture — a memorable in-store shopping experience is what drives loyalty. With a keen eye on personalization and in-store digital solutions, mere store visits can be transformed into sought-after “experiences.”
Staples moves beyond office supplies with new licensing efforts

Staples is getting into the licensing game as a means of expanding its brand. It’s first target — document storage.
Report: Retailers get a C- regarding mobile efforts

Brands and retailers are not doing a good job in keeping up with consumer expectations regarding mobile.
Shoppers are most loyal to these brands

Two online brands and an iconic American designer top a list of retail brands that command the most loyalty among consumers. Amazon, Zappos and Ralph Lauren were the top loyalty leaders in the retail segment in the 20th annual Brand Keys Loyalty Leaders List. The ranking, which is 100% consumer-driven, examined 72 categories and 635 brands. Rounding out the top five in retail: Sephora and Trader Joe’s.
Albertsons changes the holiday gift card game

Gift cards certainly have not lost their luster among holiday gift givers and recipients — or Albertsons. Well aware that three in four consumers (73%) planned to give at least one gift card last holiday season, according to the Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) reported, the grocery chain is ready to attract these shoppers again this year. In effort to grab these customers’ wallet share, Albertsons will add the Five Back Visa gift card to its gift card portfolio.
Neiman Marcus unveils fantasy gifts — for those with deep pockets

Neiman Marcus’s legendary Christmas Book turns 90 this year, but age has not dimmed its over-the-top appeal. On Wednesday, the luxe retailer unveiled the 90th edition of its annual holiday catalog and, in keeping with past years, it includes a collection (12 to be exact) of indulgent—and very pricey — fantasy gifts.
Startups Spotlight: Physical Stores Focus on All Things Digital

As brick-and-mortar stores race to transform themselves amid the increasing importance and influence of e-commerce, many retailers are looking to in-store digital media displays to attract and engage potential customers. What’s more, new startups are bringing down the high cost of traffic-counting technology; making mobile marketing offers as painless as possible; and looking to virtual reality to create experiences that wow, immerse and educate consumers. Take a look at these: