TECHNOLOGY

Online giant gives ‘voice shoppers’ first dibs on Prime Day deals
Days before Prime Day commences, Amazon is upping the ante once again. Starting Wednesday, July 5, Alexa shoppers will have access to more than 100 exclusive deals on Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Show, Amazon Tap, Fire TV or compatible Fire tablets. Voice shoppers will also get first dibs on select Prime Day deals on July 10, between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. PST — two hours before the general public, according to Amazon.
Target's CMO talks brands
Mark Tritton, Target’s executive VP and chief merchandising officer, discussed the retailer's new exclusive brands in a posting on the company's corporate website. Here are some key excerpts: What’s the inspiration behind these new brands?

Amazon gains huge foothold in Middle East

Amazon has completed its acquisition of e-commerce company souq.com, a leader in the Middle East's online shopping market. The deal, which was initially announced in March, closed for $580 million in cash, according to filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
Target to debut four new brands

Target Corp. is doubling down on its efforts to distinguish itself with exclusive brands and to be a leader in two key categories. The discounter revealed in a posting on its web site that it will launch three new apparel brands and one new home goods brand in its stores and online this fall.
Specialty retailer offers its own version of Prime Day

Sur La Table is inviting shoppers to its version of Black Friday in July. Replacing multiple smaller weekend sales that typically run throughout the month, the kitchenware retailer is introducing a one-day shopping event called “Lime Day.” The sale, which is set to launch on July 10, will feature more than 300 lime-themed items on sale for up to 75% off.
Tech Bytes: Four tips to compete on Prime Day

Amazon has brought the saying, “Christmas in July” to life with its Prime Day global shopping extravaganza and this year's event promises to be bigger than ever.
Nike in pilot with online giant

Nike is opening up shop on Amazon. The sportswear giant has entered into a pilot program with the online giant to sell a limited (at least initially) selection of footwear, apparel, and accessories on the online site. Nike products have long been available on Amazon, but only through unauthorized third party sellers. This will be the first time that Nike has sold directly on the Amazon.
Another grocer launches same-day delivery

Regional supermarket operator Shnucks is the latest grocer to offer customers same-day delivery.
CSA Q&A: Tractor Supply CIO talks about success with BOPIS

For Tractor Supply Company, buy-online-pickup-in-store is proving a win-win, for both itself and its customers. With more than 1,600 stores in 49 states, Tractor Supply is the nation's largest operator of stores dedicated to a rural lifestyle. Online and offline, it offers a wide range of merchandise, from welders and generators to an-imal care products to men and women's workwear. Stores are typically located in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural com-munities.
Specialty retailer steps up unified commerce efforts

Vitamin World’s commerce and supply chain operations are undergoing a digital transformation.