TECHNOLOGY

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.
Amazon making inroads in home and kitchen categories
Amazon is making great strides in the home and kitchen space with its Amazon Home store, which curates home and kitchen wares, furniture and appliances. Housewares account for 15% of Amazon's growth in 2016, according to a report from One Click Retail. During the first two quarters of 2017, the growth of the home & kitchen product group has continued on an upward trajectory.

Amazon exploring new ways for food delivery — no refrigeration needed

Amazon is looking at food-prep technology first developed for the U.S. military that would allow the online giant to deliver meals that do not require any refrigeration. The technology, known as microwave assisted thermal sterilization, or MATS, was developed by researchers at Washington State University, CNBC reported, and is being brought to market by a Denver-based startup called 915 Labs.
Study: One-fifth of emails never hit shopper inboxes

With 20% of emails being filtered into spam folders, retail marketers are missing out on the opportunity to drive an ROI from email. This was according to “2017 Deliverability Benchmark Report,” a study from data solutions provider Return Path. The report analyzed 2 billion brand emails.
Toys ‘R’ Us to make Times Square return — for a limited engagement

After a nearly two-year absence, Toys "R" Us is returning to Times Square — but not on a permanent basis.
Study: One in four retailers feel paralyzed by Amazon

Retailers are eager to combat the force of Amazon, but they lack the strategy, marketing dollars and digital resources to do so. Specifically, 44% of retailers do not know how to respond to the power of Amazon, according to “A New Path for Retail: Co-Existing with the Force of Amazon.” The report is from Bluecore, a commerce decision platform provider.
Report: Alibaba primed for explosive global growth

Move over Amazon — China's largest online player is looking to take on the world. Now the largest e-commerce company in the world with $430 billion in gross merchandise volume, Alibaba is seeking to become a global company as well with a goal of serving more than 2 billion shoppers, according to a new report by global think tank FGRT (Fung Global Retail & Technology).
Five ways Walmart uses big data

Walmart is bullish on big data — especially when it comes to finding ways to better serve its shoppers. Big data volume continues to grow, but Walmart is using it to the company’s — and its customers’ — advantage. By analyzing the robust information flowing throughout its operations, the discounter has gained a real-time view of workflow across its pharmacy, distribution centers, stores and e-commerce, according to a company blog.
Online home decor giant gains momentum in Q2

Despite posting a loss for the second quarter, Wayfair’s brand continues to gain traction and square off against competitors. For the second quarter ended June 30, the home decor and furnishings e-retailer narrowed its net loss to $38.9 million from $48.3 million in the same period a year ago. It also posted a smaller-than-expected second quarter loss of 26 cents per share, beating analyst expectations of 46 cents per share, according to FactSet.
Target in new partnership with hot online subscription company

Target is getting more pet-friendly as it extends its partnering initiatives with popular online retail brands. The discounter announced it will sell toys and treats from Bark, the company that operates subscription-based online pet supplies retailer BarkBox. It's the first time Bark products will be available in retail stores. Based in New York City, Bark launched in 2012 and now counts over 500,000 subscribers. It is known for its fun and quirky toy and natural treat lines.