TECHNOLOGY

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.
Supermarket Trends: Technology, food safety and sustainability are top of mind
The supermarket industry is constantly changing. Consumer food choices and how they shop, frequent regulation modifications and new technologies to integrate are just a few things we gathered from recent customer input concerning the most pressing issues for the industry. As 2017 rolls along, there are four emerging trends we see that grocery marketers should be aware of for the remainder of the year. 1. Impact of the digitally engaged food shopper on retail facilities

‘Alexa, pay my AmEx bill…’

American Express cardholders are now only a voice-command away from browsing their account or paying their bill. The credit card company is expanding its partnership with Amazon by launching its new Amex skill for Amazon Alexa. The skill brings select experiences of AmericanExpress.com and AmEx’s mobile app to Amazon’s voice service Alexa, within devices like Amazon Echo and Echo Dot.
Nordstrom partners with Hollywood celeb on wellness pop-up

Nordstrom is welcoming its newest retail curation — one that is centered on wellness. The department store chain is creating an experience around goop, the modern lifestyle brand founded by Gwyneth Paltrow, through its Pop-In@Nordstrom concept — an ongoing series of themed pop-up shops. Pop-In@Norstrom, which was developed and curated by Olivia Kim, VP of creative projects at Nordstrom, is designed to feature a different brand of new, often exclusive merchandise every four to six weeks.
Study: Pitfalls still linger around loyalty programs

Consumers are excited by the prospect of retailers taking their loyalty programs digital — if they can keep programs simple. In fact, a majority of shoppers would prefer if retailers would create digital rewards programs. Not only do 71% of shoppers want the option of managing their loyalty programs on mobile phones, 70% said they would use a mobile version of their loyalty cards if they didn’t have to sign into a website or download an app.
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.
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.