TECHNOLOGY

A diverse mix of retail tech start-ups have been selected to participate in a program aimed at enhancing retail innovation.  

Consumers’ increased confidence in their own financial situation bodes well for back-to-school spending.    At least that’s according to Synchrony Financial’s Back-to-School survey, which found that clothing, shoes and electronics represent the majority of back-to-school spending for most families surveyed and more than a third expect to spend more in both categories this year. Longer supply lists and more technology needs are among the drivers of increased spending.   

Ulta Beauty is expanding its popular Ultamate Rewards loyalty program.   The retailer is partnering with  Alliance Data Systems Corp. Alliance will develop and manage the Ultamate Rewards Credit Card, which is designed to enhance the benefits of the chain’s loyalty program.   Alliance will provide private-label and co-branded credit card services for Ulta, the largest beauty retailer in the United States, operating 886 stores nationwide.  

Consumers are putting their best foot forward when it comes to spending.

Think wealthy folks are averse to using coupons? Think again.   A new study by intelligent media delivery firm Valassis found that coupon use among the affluent is strong despite their six-digit annual incomes.     Consumers collectively saved $3.4 billion by redeeming coupons in 2015, according to NCH data, and affluent shoppers were no exception. Valassis’ research illustrates an opportunity for marketers to reach this group via integrated print and digital promotions.  

Nordstrom is doubling down on its partnership with J.Crew Group’s Madewell brand.   The department store chain plans to expand the brand to an additional 20 stores this fall.  It’s the third distribution expansion since the initial launch of the partnership in March 2015, and will result in the retailer carrying Madewell goods in a total of 76 locations in the U.S. and Canada, as well as on Nordstrom.com.     

A new start-up is looking to take the hassle out of shopping for kid’s clothing and accessories.    

Consumers know what they want: seamless shopping between online and offline. But they are worried about sharing the data that allows retailers to fully implement it.