TECHNOLOGY

Lifeway’s merchandising gets a new plan
Lifeway Christian Stores’ shoppers’ needs differ from store-to-store — a factor that pushed the chain to revamp its merchandising processes. For the specialty retailer, this has meant pursuing macro- and micro-localization strategies. From the macro level, the company still wanted to manage assortments that deliver a consistent brand experience – not only in terms of the products offered, but also in how they are stocked and presented.
Stitch Fix, Trunk Club and Le Tote upping the ante on online apparel retailing
When it comes to brands that stand out in online apparel shopping segment, subscription services are leading the pack. Apparel subscription services, like Stitch Fix and Trunk Club, and introduction of Amazon’s Prime Wardrobe are disrupting the apparel segment. While the subscription method of shopping for apparel is still in its infancy, consumer reach — and interest — is growing, according to research from The NDP Group.

J.C. Penney turns TV show into women's apparel brand

J.C. Penney has entered into an ambitious partnership with a Lifetime reality fashion show. The department giant has launched the first-ever "Project Runway" brand, with the collection inspired by the popular show and its design contestants. Currently available in over 500 Penney stores and online, the line made its debut with a summer preview collection featuring designs inspired by season 15 winner Erin Robertson, with the full assortment planned for Sept. 8.
Amazon still exploring ‘cashier-less’ checkout projects

Don’t expect Amazon to stop experimenting with cashier-less grocery stores anytime soon. Despite announcing in June it would acquire Whole Foods Market for $13.7 billion, the online giant will continue evolving its Amazon Fresh and Amazon Go concepts, among other efforts. Its goal: to reinvent the way consumers shop for food, according to Business Insider.
Rent the Runway launches same-day delivery

A designer fashion rental company is getting merchandise into New York City fashionistas' hands even faster. Rent the Runway, already a disruptor in the traditional formal wear category, now offers a service that delivers orders in a matter of hours. Specifically, customers that place orders before 12 p.m., will have it in their hands by 5 p.m., according to CNBC.
Online giant’s new delivery system targets apartment dwellers

Amazon’s new delivery system makes a play for a customer segment initially targeted by Walmart’s e-commerce arm. The online giant introduced a new delivery locker designed for apartment blocks and other housing complexes that may not have services to accept or store packages. Called The Hub by Amazon, the modular system features compartments where packages can be stored for pickup.
Best Buy creates 'Dyson experiences'

A consumer electronics giant is making a move to grab some wallet share from the home category. Starting in August, Best Buy is adding Dyson Demo Experiences – dedicated spaces that will let customers try out Dyson products. Approximately 90 Best Buy stores in the United States will feature the new interactive sections, which will be designed for shoppers to test merchandise.
Department store chain improves inventory accuracy with RFID

The Bon-Ton Stores is speeding up how it restocks merchandise. The department store chain is replacing its manual, paper-based restocking process with a radio frequency identification (RFID)-based system. The solution, from Zebra, enables store associates to fully restock merchandise displays in a fraction of the time — a move that increases productivity and enables associates to spend more time servicing shoppers.
Amazon’s Prime Now Singapore launch hits a snag

Amazon’s Prime Now debut in Singapore started off strong, but high user volume took a toll on the program’s first day of service. The service, which offers free two-hour delivery on tens of thousands of items ordered through the Prime Now app, launched on Thursday morning. By that afternoon, users struggled to use the service, according to CNBC.
Online giant steps up private-label fashion game

Amazon unveiled another private-label collection. The online giant quietly introduced its new private label shoe and handbag line on Tuesday. The collection, which is called The Fix, comprises trendy designs, including satin slides, colorful sneakers and mules, studded flats, and floral-embellished boots, among other looks, according to Footwear News.