TECHNOLOGY

British online fashion giant steps up product searches
ASOS is streamlining how its mobile shoppers search for merchandise. The largest online fashion retailer in the U.K. is adding a visual search feature to its iOS-based mobile app, reported TechCrunch. It will be rolled out to their Android app “soon."
Fast-casual chain steps up digital ordering
As Panera Bread’s electronic orders continue to rise, so does its commitment to digital customer engagement. The fast-casual chain continues to add more digital touchpoints, making it easier for shoppers to engage with its brand. Whether delivering new services via the Web, mobile or in-store kiosks, “we want to drive convenience, speed, and contribute to an exceptional customer journey,” Mark Berinato, VP, digital, Panera Bread said during a session at eTail East on Monday.

Target expands next-day delivery pilot — with some tweaks

The delivery wars continue to heat up.
Amazon shortens delivery time again — this time to minutes

Online giant Amazon continues to shorten delivery time with a new service that puts goods in shoppers’ hands within minutes of placing their order.
Walmart CEO: Trump missed ‘critical opportunity’ to unite country

The CEO of the nation's largest private employer has criticized the administration’s response to the violent protests in Charlottesville, Virginia. In a note to Walmart employees posted on the company's website, CEO Doug McMillon said that President Trump "missed a critical opportunity" in his initial reaction to the "tragic events" that occurred in Charlottesville, Va. But he called Trump's follow-up remarks on Monday "a step in the right direction."
Report looks at what drives holiday sales

Shoppers will do anything to qualify for free shipping — even spend more money if need be. That's according to a new report by Radial and CFI Group, which surveyed online shoppers to find out what they expect from retailers during the holiday shopping season. Sixty-five percent of the respondents said they are willing to purchase additional items to qualify for free shipping. In other key findings:
First Look: Indochino, King of Prussia, Pa.

Online made-to-measure retailer Indochino expands its brick-and-mortar footprint with its largest location to date, a 4,100-sq.-ft. space at King of Prussia mall, King of Prussia, Pa. The new outpost caps off a busy summer for the Canadian retailer, during which it also opened a second location in New York City, and flagships in Chicago and Washington, D.C. Earlier this year, the company opened two storefronts in Canada, in Edmonton and Vancouver. It currently has a total of 17 stores in North America.
Beauty giant gives loyal shoppers their own ‘chat-room’

Sephora’s new service strives to connect customers while they shop. The specialty retailer launched a digital platform that invites customers enrolled in its Beauty Insider loyalty program to connect and chat about all things beauty. The mobile and online platform serves as a destination for members to find inspiration, ask questions and get recommendations in an unsponsored, real-time social setting.
Vitamin Shoppe launches online subscription service — with a hook

Taking a page out of Birchbox's play book, The Vitamin Shoppe is going to be sending out personalized sample boxes of new products.
How High-Ticket Specialty Stores Can Win More BTS Sales

Back to school is the retail year’s second most critical season. It’s thought of as that make-or-break stretch that provides momentum into the holiday season. For several years, retailers have seen changes in the way the back-to-school season behaves. This year will be no exception as e-commerce and convenience plays continue to devour consumer attention and wallet share.