TECHNOLOGY

Walmart launches automated grocery kiosk
Walmart is once again raising the stakes in the online grocery game. In another move that takes a direct hit at AmazonFresh Pickup, the discounter quietly began testing an automated kiosk at a single store in Oklahoma. The 20-ft.-by-80-ft. kiosk, which resides in the parking lot at the Walmart Super Center in Oklahoma City, is fulfilling hundreds of grocery orders placed by customers who shop online or through their mobile browser, according to The Oklahoman.
Study: E-commerce returns experience critical to shopping journey
E-commerce sales may be hitting all-time highs, but the key to success is seamless online returns processes. This was according to “Making Returns a Competitive Advantage,” a re-port from Navar. The report is based on responses from 700 U.S. con-sumers who returned an online purchase in the past 12 months.

Coming to the ‘small screen’: Amazon Prime

Amazon is giving Prime members another way to shop — through their Amazon Fire TV. Amazon Fire TV already streams Web-based content, such as videos, music and games on the “big screen.” Now Amazon’s new app lets Prime members search and browse Amazon products and make purchases directly through their Fire TV remote, according to TechCrunch.
Online giant takes on Walmart with big Prime discount

The battle for low-income shoppers is heating up. Amazon announced that individuals participating in government assistance programs can sign up for Amazon Prime membership at the discounted rate of $5.99 per month. The regular annual membership for Prime is $99 per year, or $10.99 a month for those who prefer to pay on a monthly basis.
Study: Father’s Day spending headed for record high

Americans are expected to spend more than ever on gifts for Father’s Day this year — proof that consumer confidence is growing. This was according to a study from the National Retail Federation. The report, conducted by Prosper Insight & Analytics, is based on responses from 7,335 consumers surveyed between May 2 and May 9.
eBay personalizes every shopper’s visit

Shoppers are demanding that retailers treat them as individuals, and eBay is listening. eBay is launching an enhanced, more personalized eBay shopping experience through a new homepage that is responsive to its individual customers’ interests. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technology, eBay is tailoring recommendations across all categories during each shopper’s new site visit, and serving up an inventory mix that's unique only to them.
Joss & Main and cable series team up, just in time for summer

A home furnishings retailer is making it easier for their shoppers to make their homes “summer-ready.” Through its partnership with the HGTV series, “Beachfront Bargain Hunt: Renovation,” Joss & Main is enabling viewers to purchase the budget-friendly, stylish looks presented on the show directly through their e-commerce site. The retailer will feature merchandise throughout the show’s six-week season, starting on June 10.
Walmart leverages ‘employees’ for last-mile delivery initiative
Amazon expands distribution fleet in California

Amazon is bolstering fulfillment efforts in the Golden State. The online giant will open an 855,000-sq.-ft. fulfillment center in Fresno, California. The new facility will specialize in handling smaller-sized items such as books, electronic devices and children’s toys. The Fresno facility will be the fifth warehouse in the state’s Central Valley. Amazon currently operates three fulfillment centers in Tracy and Patterson, and a fourth facility under construction in Sacramento.
Hot fitness equipment start-up to expand retail footprint

Peloton, a four-year-old startup that sells exercise bikes tied to a live-streamed workout experience, is revving up for expansion armed with fresh capital. The company announced it has recently closed a $325 million series E financing round, which brings its total valuation to $1.25 billion. The round was led by Wellington Management, Fidelity Investments, Kleiner Perkins, and True Ventures. Other significant investors in this round included Comcast NBCUniversal, GGV Capital, Balyasny, and QuestMark.