TECHNOLOGY

Consumer confidence slips in May
Wary about business conditions and jobs, consumer confidence dipped a bit further in May. But consumer still remain optimistic on the whole about the economy. The Conference Board said Tuesday that its Consumer Confidence Index fell to 117.9 in May, from a revised 119.4 in April. The index hit 124.9 in March, its highest mark in 16 years.
Fast-casual chain reveals culprit of recent data breach
Chipotle Mexican Grill is coming clean about a cyber-attack that targeted the chain last month. An extensive investigation lead by leading cyber security firms, law enforcement and the payment card networks revealed that malware accessed payment card data used at point-of-sale (POS) devices at certain Chipotle and Pizzeria Locale restaurants between March 24 and April 18. Not all locations were involved, and the specific timeframes vary by location, according to the chain.

Amazon’s grocery pickup concept finally opens — for Prime members only

Amazon’s latest grocery initiative is now up and running for customers. AmazonFresh Pickup, the online grocer’s drive-by grocery delivery service, allows Amazon Prime members to order groceries online and pick them up in as little as 15 minutes. The concept launched in March, with two locations in Seattle. Initially in a beta mode, the service was available only to Amazon employees. But as of May 25, it is now open also to Amazon prime members in the general public.
Footwear retailer improves ship-from-store service

Knowing efficient in-store fulfillment is key to omnichannel success, Browns Shoes has just taken a big step toward optimizing these orders. Browns Shoes, a family-owned business established in Montreal in 1940, owns and operates more than 60 retail stores throughout Canada. When the retailer merged its e-commerce channel with its brick-and-mortar operations, Browns was ready to use its retail network as another fulfillment avenue.
Warby Parker offers at-home eye exam — via app

Warby Parker is taking self-service to a new level. The eyewear retailer built its brand on enabling online shoppers to create their ideal pair of specs. Now the company is further extending its self-service options with an app that lets shoppers take a vision test at home.
Beauty brand streamlines B2B gift card program

Sephora is all about offering top-notch service to its customers — even its business partners. According to the Incentive Research Foundation and Incentive Gift Card Council, business-to-business (B2B) gifting is becoming more prevalent across U.S. companies, as they spend $22.7 billion per year on gift cards. Sephora’s new partnership will enable the company to claim a bigger portion of this market share.
Amazon takes on Etsy with new bridal destination

Amazon is making its debut in the bridal category —a move that will take another hit against its crafting competitor Etsy.
Twitter features fun — not transactional — bot program

A social media giant is getting in on the chatbot wave. Twitter launched a new, customizable Direct Message Card that brands can use to promote and share bots and other customer experiences built in its Direct Messages tool. Direct Messages helps companies create personalized ads and interactions — ranging from customer acquisition programs to engaging bots.
Athletic footwear brand steps up retailing experience

Shoe Palace is moving into the cloud to enhance its omnichannel operations. A preferred Nike retailer, Shoe Palace is known for its high-end athletic footwear and apparel, and top-notch customer service. The family-run business opened its first store in San Jose, California in 1993. Today, the company operates 118 stores nationwide, and an e-commerce site.
Study: Loyalty program experiences falling short

Despite increasing loyalty program membership enrollments, retailers continue to miss opportunities to satisfy shoppers. Brands continue to invest more in loyalty programs, and enrollment has grown by 31% over the last four years. However, retailers are overlooking opportunities that will drive business results, according to “The Loyalty Report 2017.”