TECHNOLOGY

Study: Gen Z digital, decisive and drone-ready
More than any generation before it, Gen Z has high expectations related to customer service and engagement across emerging channels. That’s according to a new report by American Express, “Raising the Bar: How Gen Z Expectations Are Reshaping Brand Experiences.” The study, conducted by Forrester Research, surveyed 1,027 North American Gen Y (ages 23 to 37) and Gen Z consumers (ages 16 to 22).
Report: Amazon makes bigger push into furniture category
The message is clear: Amazon wants to furnish its shoppers’ homes. The online retailer has made a strong commitment to the furniture category by expanding its merchandise assortment and custom designs. Now it is giving the category even more attention, according to sources that said the Amazon is building at least four massive warehouses focused on fulfilling and delivering bulky items, MarketWatch reported.

Lilly Pulitzer, Vera Bradley make online gift giving easier, more personal

Two specialty retailers are hoping to get more customers on board with e-gifting. Lily Pulitzer and Vera Bradley have joined Loop Commerce’s e-gifting service and platform, GiftNow.
David’s Bridal alleviates stress — for associates and customers

A specialty retailer’s new point-of-sale upgrade is helping to meet — and surpass — its customers’ expectations. David’s Bridal has created a reputation for enabling brides—and her entire wedding party— to choose a gown right off the rack. But as it expanded its offerings and services, the retailer has also established a robust special order business.
Report: Online growth continues at blistering pace

Online retailing is on an upward trajectory that shows no sign of slowing. In fact, the segment is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of close to 16% between 2017-2021, according to a research forecast from Technavio.
The top retail and apparel ‘conversation starters’ are…

When shoppers talk about brands, they usually do it offline. That’s according to a study by Engagement Labs that measured the performance of 60 brands with respect to social media and word of mouth conversations. Amazon came out on top in the retail and apparel category, followed by Nike and Nordstrom.
Luggage giant readies for order visibility

Samsonite has selected a cloud-based solution to enhance its omnichan-nel operations and improve order visibility, flexibility, profitability and speed. The luggage company will deploy the Aptos Enterprise Order Management solution. The tool will serve as a central commerce hub and manage all orders throughout their lifecycle, from initiation to fulfillment and delivery.
Target debuts 360° shopping

Target Corp. is taking a cue from Hollywood to help shoppers create the living room of their dreams. The discounter is using the same type of computer generated imagery that figures in movie blockbusters to create a 360-degree, virtual reality-like experience on its website. And it’s shoppable.
Jet.com ventures into physical retail
Amazon to build homeless facility — at its new headquarters