American Shoppers Plan To Spend More In 2016 Holiday Season, Survey Says October 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In the US, 61 percent of consumers said they plan to spend more in the 2016 holiday season than they did in the previous year, according to a survey conducted by Kelton Global for RetailMeNot. Results of the survey revealed almost one in three shoppers plan to spend at least $200 more; however, 70 percent of respondents look for deals on holiday gifts, while 40 percent believe they will find the best deals on Black Friday. Consumers looking for the best deals can find an average discount of 33 percent off their winter travel in October, while toys, home décor, and apparel are most discounted early in the season, RetailMeNot said. "New Survey Finds 61% of Shoppers Expect to Spend More this Holiday Season", RetailMeNot, October 13, 2016, © RetailMeNot

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Market News Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Ulta Plans To Expand Store Network To Double Market Share October 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Beauty retailer Ulta aims to expand its market share in the next several years by opening new stores, growing its online business, and improving store productivity. Company CEO Mary Dillon said she expects Ulta to double its share of the $127 billion beauty market in the US from the current 4 percent. At the company's latest analyst and investor day, Ulta adjusted comparable-store sales growth forecast for 2017 to 2019 from 5‒7 percent to 7‒9 percent. Also, the company raised its same-store sales growth outlook from 11‒13 percent to 14‒15 percent. Abigail Stevenson, "Ulta Beauty CEO Wants to Double Market Share", CNBC, October 13, 2016, © CNBC LLC

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Tesco Removes Unilever Products From Online Store Following Price Dispute October 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Tesco has removed dozens of Unilever brand products from its online store following a dispute between the companies over prices. Worsening tensions between suppliers and retailers, the disagreement highlights the adverse economic impact of the UK's exit from the European Union. Unilever has been working to raise the prices of products it supplies to the country's big 4 supermarkets by about 10 percent, claiming it needs to recover losses caused by higher cost of imported materials. Grocers, however, are opposing Unilever's demands for higher prices, saying some of the products are actually made in the UK. "Tesco pulls Unilever goods from website over price row", Reuters, October 12, 2016, © Reuters

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Consumers Prefer To Buy CPG From Brick-And-Mortar Stores October 11, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Consumers prefer to buy consumer packaged goods from a brick-and-mortar store, according to the report, “CPG Ecommerce in the US: Expectations and Strategies for Growth.” Results of the February‒March 2016 study of Amazon by Cowen and Company revealed 78 percent of 2,500 adult respondents purchased their groceries at a supermarket in the past 30 days, with 61 percent saying Wal-Mart, and only 8 percent saying they bought online. Meanwhile, 90 percent of respondents had bought grocery or food in a physical store in the past year, according to a February 2016 study by PR firm Walker Sands Communications. "Consumers Just Aren't into Buying Packaged Goods Online", eMarketer, October 11, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Market News Online Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Gen Z Consumers Bringing Good Tidings For Retailers In 2016 Holiday, Survey Reveals October 11, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Gen Z consumers, or those born after 1996, prefer to shop in-store, according to PwC's Holiday Shopping survey. Although Gen Z shoppers do not have the purchasing power of older consumers, there are 86 million of them. Retailers need to keep in mind that for Gen Z consumers, shopping is a social experience and they like to go to stores with family and friends. Also, these consumers prefer to buy personal electronics, clothes, shoes, and toys, with 58 percent of their holiday-shopping budget for others expected to go to buying tangible gifts. Steven Barr, "A Demographic That Actually Enjoys Shopping In-Store? Retailers, Meet Gen Z", Forbes, October 11, 2016, © Forbes Media LLC

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Market News Trends Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Carrefour Italy Reveals New Look Of Online Store October 11, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Carrefour revamped its online shopping business in Italy. Since September 27, 2016, the retailer's e-commerce website allows customers to do their shopping with fewer clicks than before. Also, the online retail service lets shoppers pick up their order at the company's nearest store or avail of home delivery service. Carrefour Italy's e-commerce site combines online content with the online shopping service, allowing customers, for example, to buy ingredients for the recipe they are viewing in the site's magazine section. "Carrefour’s e-commerce service is getting a new look in Italy", Carrefour, October 11, 2016, © Carrefour

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Wal-Mart Plans To Slow Down Expansion In US October 11, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said it will not close stores but will open new locations at a slower pace in fiscal year 2018. During its latest investor meeting, the retailer announced plans to build 35 new supercenters and 20 Neighborhood Markets, compared with 69 supercenters and 161 Neighborhood Markets in 2015. Also, the company announced its fiscal year 2017 capital expenditure for Walmart US will be $6.4 billion, compared with $6.8 billion in the previous year. For fiscal 2018, capex drops further to $6.1 billion, the company said. As Wal-Mart battles with Amazon for market share, the company will rely more on same-store sales and growth in e-commerce, technology, and other areas. Tonya Garcia, "Wal-Mart to take on Amazon with upgrades to its bricks-and-mortar stores", MarketWatch, October 11, 2016, © MarketWatch, Inc.

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Dutch Web Retailer Now Offers 300K Items For Same-Day Delivery October 10, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Web retailer Bol.com, a unit of Dutch company Ahold Delhaize, says it has expanded its delivery capabilities to include same-day home delivery. The “Delivered Today” option is available in The Netherlands for 300,000 items if orders are placed by noon. The expansion of capabilities also includes home delivery of regular orders to seven days a week. The company introduced next-day delivery in 2011. Its goal is to increase the number of products available for seven-day, same-day delivery to a million within “a few years.” "Global first: bol.com makes a breakthrough with same-day delivery", News release, Ahold Delhaize, October 10, 2016, © Ahold Delhaize

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National Advertisers Seek Multicultural Help In Improving Marketing October 10, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The trade group that represents companies that spend a total of $300 billion a year on national brand advertising announced an alliance of senior “thought leaders” from the African American, Hispanic, Asian, and LGBT communities to develop a blueprint for multicultural marketing in the U.S. The Association of National Advertisers says the new Alliance for Inclusive & Multicultural Marketing (AIMM) would facilitate brand marketing to diverse racial and cultural groups. Among the specific goals of the AIMM: share multicultural marketing examples; drive ROI, primarily through marketing effectiveness; disseminate best practices of multicultural and diverse demographic segments; and through a robust communications program; and create unique marketplace experiences providing insights into the multicultural arena. "ANA Forms New Multicultural Marketing Alliance", News release, Association of National Advertisers, October 10, 2016, © Association of National Advertisers

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Line Separating Online And Offline Retail Continues To Blur, Report Says October 10, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In 2016, the retail market will see several current trends intensify and further shrink the gap between ecommerce and brick-and-mortar retail, according to the report, “US Holiday Ecommerce Preview 2016: Mobile to Fuel Explosive Ecommerce Growth,” by eMarketer. Data from the market research firm predict retailers will adopt improved fulfillment options, local advertising tools, offline attribution, and omnichannel platforms. Also, mobile is helping close the gap between the two segments, a trend forecast to become more pronounced in the 2016 holiday season. "Gap Between Online and Offline Commerce Is Shrinking", eMarketer, October 10, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

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Amazon Most Visited Online Store In France, Study Reveals October 7, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In France, more than six in 10 consumers who shop online and had made at least one online purchase in the past six months had shopped at Amazon, according to the Federation du E-commerce et de la Vente a Distance and Mediametrie. Amazon was the most visited site with both PC and mobile, accounting for 30 percent of internet users on both platforms—15 million average monthly unique desktop and laptop visitors in the second quarter and 10.4 million on mobile. Data showed Amazon was the only one on the top 10 that is not based in France. "Where Do Digital Buyers in France Shop?", eMarketer, October 07, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Market News Online Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe France

Millennials Expect Their Grocers To Carry Natural And Organic Personal Care Products October 7, 2016: 12:00 AM EST With demand growing for natural and organic personal care products, consumers, especially Millennials, expect these products to be available at their favorite grocery stores. While Millennials do not like going to specialty stores to buy personal care products, many would go to the nearest health food store if their favorite retailer did not sell the natural products they seek, according to Wally's Natural. Despite the growing demand, retailers sometimes cannot distinguish between products labeled as natural and those classified as organic. Rebekah Marcarelli, "More Than Skin Deep", Grocery Headquarters, October 07, 2016, © Macfadden Grocery Headquarters, LLC

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Market News Trends Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Walmart Reveals Its Expectations For Near Future October 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walmart executives explained to investors its strategic and financial goals over the next couple of years, including continued momentum in the U.S., solid growth in Mexico and Canada, a “sharpened focus” in China, and continued spending on e-commerce. The company reaffirmed its profit guidance for fiscal 2017 of $4.29 to $4.49 per share. The company expects profit per share to be flat in fiscal 2018 compared to 2017, approximately $4.15 to $4.35. It expects to spend $11 billion on capital investment during fiscal 2018. "Walmart Outlines Plan to Win with Customers, including E-commerce Acceleration, at Meeting for Investment Community Today", News release, Walmart, October 06, 2016, © Walmart

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Amazon Settles On Flat Monthly Fee For Online Grocery Delivery Service October 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The online grocery shopping service AmazonFresh is now cheaper for Prime members. The service, originally priced at $299 per year, later shifted to a $7.99 per delivery scheme, but is now being offered at $14.99 a month to Amazon Prime subscribers. AmazonFresh is now live in the Boston area, in addition to Baltimore, Seattle, major cities in California, the New York metro area, northern New Jersey, the Philadelphia metro, Northern Virginia, Stamford (Conn.), Trenton (N.J.) and London (U.K.). Customers can order by 10 a.m. for same-day delivery by 6 p.m., or order by 10 p.m. for delivery by 6 a.m. the following day. Sarah Perez, "AmazonFresh Drops to $14.99 Per Month for Prime Members", Tech Crunch, October 06, 2016, © AOL Inc.

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Kevin Holt To Succeed McCann At Ahold America October 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Dutch grocery giant Ahold Delhaize has named Kevin Holt, currently CEO of Delhaize America, to succeed management board member James McCann (left), who resigned to take on non-executive and advisory roles at the company through April 2017. McCann has been with Ahold for five years, serving mainly as chief commercial officer with responsibility for Ahold America since 2013. The Delhaize America unit, which includes Food Lion and Hannaford, will be overseen on an interim basis by Frans Muller, deputy CEO of Ahold Delhaize. Kevin Holt , "Ahold Delhaize announces resignation of James McCann and appointment of ", News release, Ahold Delhaize, October 05, 2016, © Ahold Delhaize

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McDonald’s Joins Environmental Group In Promoting Sustainable Coffee Farming October 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST McDonald’s has enlisted the help of Conservation International in reaching a goal of serving only sustainable coffee by 2020. The goal is a nod to the growing interest among consumers in knowing where their food comes from. But there’s a practical consideration as well: to make sure it has a sufficient supply of high-quality coffee for the long run. Helping coffee farmers furthers that goal. Conservation International’s mission is to transform the coffee industry, which has been under stress because of climate change and fungal disease. Sustainability is a key part of that mission. Leslie Patton, "McDonald’s Is Moving to Sustainable Coffee in Latest Menu Change", Bloomberg Market, October 05, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Rapid Growth Creates Problems For Unique Silicon Valley Venture Blue Apron October 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST An NPR reporter who interviewed 14 former employees of meal kit delivery service Blue Apron heard tales of violence and code violations at one of its main packing facilities in California. They described violence among staff members, police visits, telephoned bomb threats, evacuations, and threats of gun violence. The police in the city (Richmond) chalked up the problems to growth so rapid that security was lax or non-existent. And early on, hiring was handled by incompetent temp agencies. But perhaps the basic difficulty was that the Blue Apron facility is both a warehouse and a manufacturing facility involved in fresh food handling, packaging, and delivery – not a typical Silicon Valley start-up model at all. "Meal Kits And Chaos: Report Reveals Unsavory Side Of Blue Apron Warehouse", National Public Radio, October 05, 2016, © npr

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Targeting Millennials, Target Thinks Small October 4, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retail chain Target has made a strategic decision to entice Millennials with smaller stores offering a customized product line in urban areas and college towns. The move, pioneered with limited succcess by Walmart but in suburban areas, is an attempt to reverse declining traffic and sales at its 1,800 suburban stores, as well as a 13 percent drop in stock value. One of the new smaller stores near the University of Minnesota campus has only 15 percent of the floor space of the big box stores. It stocks products used by college students, including miniature ironing boards and twin-size sheets, but no children’s toys or strollers. CEO Brian Cornell says the small-footprint stores are the wave of the future: “It could be a huge part of future growth outlook over time.” Walmart, however, has closed 100 of its suburban Walmart Express stores. Khadeeja Safdar, "Target Goes After Millennials With Small, Focused Stores", The Wall Street Journal, October 04, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Operations Strategy Trends Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Walgreens’ New Beauty Club Rewards Members With Purchase Points October 4, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Drug store chain Walgreens has launched a beauty club for cardholders that provides rewards for purchasing select cosmetics, skin care, hair care, oral care, grooming, sun care, fragrance and bath products. Customers who sign up for the Beauty Enthusiast club will also have chances to receive free samples, promotions, coupons, special beauty offers, new product information and “expert tips” during the year. Club members will also receive 5,000 Balance Rewards points for every $50 spent on beauty and personal care products. "Walgreens Gives Beauty Customers Additional Rewards and Offers through Launch of Beauty Enthusiast", News release, Walgreens, October 04, 2016, © Walgreens

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American Economy Braces For Onslaught Of Older Millennials, And Their Kids October 1, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The fact that Millennials are procreating is having a major impact on almost all industries, from foodservice to auto sales to home buying. There are 70 million Millennials (aged 18 to 35 years), and over the next decade 60 million of them will become parents. They will spend $200 billion annually beginning next year (up from $170 billion) and $10 trillion over their lifetimes. Despite opinions to the contrary, they will begin buying homes and cars, eat out at more healthful restaurants, and begin shopping for kid stuff. The impact is already being seen in restaurants and retail chains. McDonald's, Chick-Fil-A, Wendy's, etc., are getting rid of unwanted ingredients; Target, Walmart, and Kroger are changing their stores to appeal to Millennial moms. Ashley Lutz, "Everything you know about millennial spending is about to change", Business Insider , October 01, 2016, © Business Insider Inc

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Research Strategy Trends Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Ten Trends Expected To Drive Western Europe's CPG Market In 2016-2030, Report Says October 1, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Ten trends are expected to drive Europe's consumer packaged goods industry from 2016 to 2030, according to McKinsey & Company. Data from the market research firm's report, “Western Europe's Consumer Goods Industry in 2030,” revealed changes in consumer behavior, stagnating mass market, and fragmented niches of growth will force CPG companies to rethink their business and marketing strategies. Also expected to play important roles in determining the market's future directions are the increase in cross-channel shopping and continued growth of discounters, growing importance of online grocery and competition for digital placement, and changes in industry dynamics. Vertical integration and new business models, widening adoption of digital technology, cost leadership and consolidation, and external influences are also factors that CPG companies will have to deal with during the period covered by the report. To top it all, market stakeholders will also see an increase in government regulation of the industry. Benedikt Krings, et al., "Western Europe’s consumer-goods industry in 2030", McKinsey & Company, October 01, 2016, © McKinsey & Company

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Supervalu Sees Shares Take Off Following Reports Of Onex's Plan To Buy Save-A-Lot Business September 29, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Shares of retailer Supervalu Inc. gained 9.6 percent in market value following reports that private equity firm Onex Corp. may purchase the company's Save-A-Lot chain of discount stores. According to Reuters, Supervalu is expected to make a decision in the next two weeks. Nick Turner, "Supervalu Jumps After Report That Onex May Buy Save-A-Lot Chain", Bloomberg Markets, September 29, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Wal-Mart Looks At Acquiring Minority Stake In India's Flipkart September 29, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is reportedly negotiating to invest as much as $1 billion in India-based online retailer Flipkart Online Services Pvt. Valued at about $16 billion, Flipkart is the largest online retailer in the country; however, its hold on the market is under assault by Amazon and other rivals. Under the proposed deal, Wal-Mart would acquire a minority stake in the online retailer. Such a deal would significantly benefit both parties, enabling both Wal-Mart and Flipkart to expand their operations in India, the third most important e-commerce market after the US and China. Saritha Rai, "Wal-Mart Is in Talks to Invest Up to $1 Billion in Flipkart", Bloomberg Technology, September 29, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Aldi Receives LEED Gold Certification For Distribution Facility In California September 28, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Aldi has received a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Awarded for its environment-friendly and sustainable distribution center and regional headquarters in Moreno Valley, California, the LEED certification recognizes the discount retailer's efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its business operations. Aldi partnered with Graycor Construction Company to create an environment-friendly design as well as use sustainably sourced building materials for its distribution center and regional headquarters. USGBC said LEED-certified projects have diverted more than 80 million tons of waste from landfills. LEED Gold buildings use 25 percent less energy and generate 34 percent lower greenhouse gas emissions than conventional buildings, the USGBC said. "ALDI Earns LEED Gold Certification for California Distribution Center", ALDI , September 28, 2016, © ALDI

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Shiseido Launches Line Of Skin-Whitening Products Aimed At Prestige Beauty Market September 27, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Shiseido plans to launch its Shiseido White Lucent Total Brightening Day & Night Set line of skin-whitening products to the travel retail market. Part of the company’s efforts to expand its prestige beauty business, the range will include White Lucent All Day Brightener SPF 36, Micro Targeting Spot Corrector, and MultiBright Night Cream, all in 50ml packages. According to the company, the White Lucent range comes with a formulation that includes Double Strike PROApproachx2 brightening technology. Clare Austin, "Shiseido Travel Retail sets sights on prestige beauty market", The Moodie Davitt Report , September 27, 2016, © The Moodie Davitt Report

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Cinnabon Debuts BonBites With Twitter-Based Contest, Movie Tie-In September 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Cinnamon-roll bakery chain Cinnabon has launched a marketing campaign for its new bite-sized BonBites treat that includes a social media contest and a promotional tie-in with the new animated movie “Storks.” The company says the introduction of the tiny desserts follows a growing trend toward bite-sized snacks: Technomic reports that 34 percent of consumers are more likely to order a dessert if a mini-portioned option is available. The marketing campaign involves submission of baby pictures online that will earn fans a coupon for the purchase of the 100-calories BonBites and a chance to win a trip to Warner Bros. studios. "Cinnabon BonBites Deliver Bite-sized Happiness Nationwide", News release, Cinnabon, September 23, 2016, © Cinnabon

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Market News Marketing Private Label Products & Pricing Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Report Says Europe Making Progress Toward Food Waste Reduction September 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A coalition of executives from European governments, businesses, international organizations, and others has issued a report citing progress in reducing food waste but calling for greater efforts to cut it in half globally by 2030. That is the goal of the coalition, known as New Champions 123, which says food loss and waste worldwide are responsible for $940 billion in economic losses and eight percent of greenhouse gas emissions annually. Eighty-eight million tons of food are wasted each year in the European Union, an amount that could feed 200 million people. Among the Europe-based participants in Champions are executives of Tesco, World Business Council for Sustainable Development, Nestlé, Sodexo Group, and Unilever. "Europe Makes Progress on Reducing Food Waste but More Work Needed Worldwide", News release, Tesco PLC, September 22, 2016, © Tesco Stores Ltd

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Sephora Launches Teen Makeup Class September 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Beauty retailer Sephora launched the Teen Makeup Class, an instruction program aimed at providing teenagers with basic knowledge on skin and beauty care. One of the company's 12 essential beauty classes, and free for Beauty Insiders, Teen Makeup will help teenagers highlight their natural beauty. Lessons included in the 90-minute class include tips on finding the right beauty products, fundamentals of good skincare, and tips on how to create the perfect complexion. "Learn Skincare And Makeup Fundamentals With Sephora's New Teen Makeup Class", PR Newswire, September 22, 2016, © PR Newswire Association LLC

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Sodexo’s Deli Eateries Serve Up Exotic Bread Varieties September 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Foodservice facilities manager Sodexo’s deli unit has introduced a line of freshly baked breads with nontraditional compositions and flavors. More than 100 SubConnection eateries are located at schools and universities, corporate offices and healthcare facilities in the U.S. The new bread flavors include maple bacon and jalapeno cheddar Old Bay cheddar, roasted garlic and parmesan, salt and pepper, sriracha and orange peel, thai, buffalo, parmesan herb, pretzel, white wheat, Southwest white wheat, and rolled oat white wheat. Customers at the delis can pair their bread selections with quality meats, fresh vegetables, toppings and sauces. "Sodexo's SubConnection Rolls Out New Bread Flavors for the Adventurous", News release, Sodexo, September 22, 2016, © Sodexo

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Innovation Market News Products & Pricing Strategy Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

For Wal-Mart Canada, Value Drives All Content Marketing September 21, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart Canada focuses on value when implementing content marketing campaigns, according to the company's senior director of marketing and communications, Heather Loosemore. Although content comes in many forms for the retailer because of its wide range of products, the company always aims to present content that puts equal emphasis on price and quality. Loosemore said Wal-Mart Canada is always analyzing consumer needs in order to ensure the retailer is addressing those needs. "Uncovering the Value in Content Marketing with Wal-Mart Canada", eMarketer, September 21, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

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Wal-Mart Has To Face Class-Action Lawsuit, Judge Says September 21, 2016: 12:00 AM EST U.S. District Judge Susan Hickey ruled that a class-action lawsuit accusing Wal-Mart Stores Inc. of defrauding shareholders can proceed. Hickey rejected Wal-Mart's assertion that the pension fund City of Pontiac General Employees' Retirement System had no legal basis to lead the case, which arose from alleged acts of bribery committed by company officials in Mexico. Wal-Mart's stock market value dropped by about $17 billion in April 2012, following a report about the bribery case published by The New York Times. Shareholders of the retailer claimed Wal-Mart knew about the case as early as 2005 but chose to downplay it. Jonathan Stempel et al, "Wal-Mart Must Face U.S. Class Action Over Alleged Mexican Bribery", Reuters, September 21, 2016, © Reuters

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Chipotle Reassures Customers About Safe Food Handling In New Marketing Campaign September 21, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Chipotle fast-casual restaurant chain has launched a marketing campaign to reassure customers that the E. coli outbreaks that made dozens of people sick in last year will never happen again. To do that it has implemented the recommendations of a former chief medical officer at the USDA and FDA, and redesigned and implemented a thorough food safety program in all 3,862 restaurants. Chipotle’s number one priority now is to serve fresh food – safely – so new safety protocols are applied at every level. All ingredients, for example, are tested for pathogens by suppliers, then tracked from farm to warehouse to restaurant. Several pathogen-killing procedures are followed in the restaurants. And all restaurant managers are trained and certified in proper food handling. Julie Jargon, "Chipotle Explains Food-Safety Practices in New Ad Campaign", The Wall Street Journal, September 21, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Advertising Marketing Operations Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Tesco Lotus Collaborates With Lazada To Offer Online Shopping In Thailand's Non-Urban Regions September 20, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Tesco Lotus has partnered with online retailer Lazada to offer online shopping to customers living in Thailand's upcountry regions. While consumers in Bangkok use online shopping websites, such as Lazada and Zalora, very few people in the country's interior regions shop online. As part of the partnership deal, Tesco Lotus has installed Lazada kiosks in the company's Tesco Lotus Express and Talad locations. "Tesco Lotus attempts to introduce online shopping to customers in upcountry", Coconuts Bangkok , September 20, 2016, © Coconuts Bangkok

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Food Waste Supermarket Flourishes In Denmark September 20, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A Danish charity (Folkekirkens Nødhjælp) that earlier this year opened a supermarket in Copenhagen dedicated to selling surplus food says the project has been successful enough to open two more stores. Food and other items sold in the stores would normally be thrown away because they are past their sell by date or have other imperfections. The WeFood store collects items from a variety of suppliers and sells them at a 30 – 50 percent discount. The store is part of a Danish government initiative to reduce food waste – 700,000 tons a year – in the country. Hazel Sheffield, "Denmark Plans Two More Food Waste Supermarkets Selling Surplus Produce", Independent, September 20, 2016, © Independent Digital News and Media Ltd.

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Amazon Leads In Europe's Online Retail Market, Report Says September 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Amazon was the largest online retailer in Western Europe in 2015 in terms of revenue, according to the report, “Fung Global Retail & Technology Internet Retailers Ranking for Europe.” In 2012‒2015, Amazon increased its market share in Germany from 36 percent of all online sales to 43 percent, according to Euromonitor. Zalando improved its profitability during the period, according to S&P Capital IQ, becoming one of Europe's largest online retailers in the process. UK-focused online retailer John Lewis saw its online sales expand at a CAGR of 23.4 percent during the period covered by the report. "Identifying E-Commerce Winners: Our Ranking For Western Europe", Fung Global Retail & Technology, September 19, 2016, © Fung Global Retail & Technology

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Walmart Says It Has Finalized Purchase Of Jet.com September 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., said it has completed its acquisition of online retailer Jet.com, Inc., after the expiration of the federally mandated waiting period. Expected to help the retail giant accelerate its e-commerce expansion efforts, the purchase deal was valued at approximately $3 billion cash and $300 million in Walmart shares. As part of the deal, Jet.com founder and CEO Marc Lore joins Walmart as EVP and president and CEO of Walmart eCommerce in the US. "Walmart Completes Acquisition of Jet.com, Inc.", Walmart, September 19, 2016, © Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

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Blue Apron’s Meal Kit Facilities Throw Away Far Less Food Than Grocers September 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Blue Apron meal kit delivery company is managing to keep food waste to a minimum at its prep facility, according to a study by a nonprofit sustainability advocate. BSR found that Blue Apron trashed only 5.5 percent of its food, compared to the to the 10.5 percent thrown out by grocery stores. The organization also found that buyers of Blue Apron kits threw away only 7.6 percent of the meals, instead of the 24 percent usually thrown away after home cooking. The key reason for the company’s lower waste generation is the fact that it knows exactly how much food it needs for each kit. Adele Peters, "Cooking With A Meal Kit May Waste 62% Less Food Than Grocery Store Ingredients", Fast Company, September 19, 2016, © Mansueto Ventures, LLC

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Real Junk Food Project Repurposes Surplus Food In A Network Of Affiliated Cafes September 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST While Britain’s lawmakers ponder possible legislation on curbing food waste, private organizations and entrepreneurs have taken matters into their own hands with some eye-popping success. The Real Junk Food project, founded only three years ago, maintains a 6,000-square-foot warehouse in the city of Leeds that collects between two and 10 tons of food daily from a variety of sources, including supermarket chain Morrisons. Food collected is then distributed to one of 30 Real Junk Food cafes around the city. There are 125 such cafes throughout the U.K., and in Israel and Australia, and is growing exponentially worldwide. The surplus food is sold to anyone for any amount they can afford, including donated labor and services. Carole Cadwalladr, "The Real Junk Food Project: Revolutionising How We Tackle Food Waste", The Guardian, September 18, 2016, © Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Innovation Operations Trends Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Easyday CEO Leaves Company To Join Rival Metro Cash & Carry September 16, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Easyday chief executive officer Manish Sabnis has left the company to join Metro Cash & Carry. Easyday is a unit of Future Group's flagship company Future Retail, which formed a partnership with Bharti Retail in 2015. Sabnis led the organization's merger with Future Group. Sharmila Das , "Manish Sabnis, head of Easyday network quits, to join Metro Cash & Carry", ETRetail , September 16, 2016, © ETRetail.com

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Target Aims To Expand Via Small-Store Way September 15, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Target Corp. plans to open hundreds of stores that are smaller than its existing large-format locations in the US. After opening 23 small stores in major cities, such as Chicago and Philadelphia, Target plans to open nine “flex-format” stores in 2016 and at least 16 more in 2017. Usually smaller than 50,000 square feet and with product selection aimed at local demographics, the stores allow Target to open branches in downtown areas. Shannon Pettypiece, "Get Ready for Hundreds of Small Target Stores, CEO Says", Bloomberg, September 15, 2016, © Bloomberg LP

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Target Not Becoming Full-Service Grocery Store, CEO Says September 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Target Corp. does not want to become a full-service grocery store, according to company CEO Brian Cornell. Since 2014, when Cornell became the retailer's chief executive, the company has focused on several important categories, such as style, baby, children, and wellness, to help drive sales growth. Grocery is one of Target's important categories, accounting for 20 percent percent of its $74 billion annual revenue. Khadeeja Safdar, "Target CEO Says Retailer Won’t Become Full-Service Grocer", The Wall Street Journal, September 14, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Whole Foods Market Opens Third 365 By Whole Foods Store September 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Whole Foods Market opened its third 365 by Whole Foods Market store in Bellevue, Washington. Smaller than the retailer's regular stores, the 30,000 sq ft store has lower operating costs and offers products at lower prices than its bigger counterparts. Through the retailer's Friends of 365 program, the store works with external suppliers to offer more foodservice options. Stewart Samuel, "Third 365 by Whole Foods Market Opens", Retail Analysis, September 14, 2016, © The Institute of Grocery Distribution and IGD Services Limited

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Sephora Launches Android Mobile App And Pocket Hair Stylist Digital Tool September 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Sephora launched the Sephora app for Android, which lets users experience mobile shopping and digital innovation offered earlier by the Sephora iPhone app. Sephora's Android mobile app comes with features, including Scan, Quick and Easy Purchasing, Book a Sephora Service or Class, and Videos. Sephora also announced a new Pocket Hair Stylist digital tool designed to inspire and help users create different hair styles, based on what kind of hair they have. Gina Acosta, "Sephora is giving beauty fans even more ways to ‘beauty together’", Drug Store News, September 14, 2016, © Drug Store News

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Ahold Gears Supply Chain For Online Success September 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retail company Ahold has reorganized its supply chain to support its online business, which it aims to grow to €2.5 billion by end of 2017. Ahold's online-business-focused supply chain structure features various fulfillment options, as well as flexibility in delivery services and pick up points for customers. According to the retailer, its supply chain has been revamped to promote operational excellence in fulfilling online orders. "Ahold Delhaize: driving excellence in online operations", Retail Analysis, September 13, 2016, © The Institute of Grocery Distribution and IGD Services Limited

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Kroger Makes It To Dow Jones Sustainability Index-North America For Fourth Consecutive Year September 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Kroger Co. said it was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index-North America for the fourth consecutive years. Evaluating the top 20 percent of the 600 largest companies in the US and Canada in the S&P Global Broad Market Index and leaders in sustainability efforts, the DJSI reviews a number of factors in economic, social, and environmental terms. "Kroger Named to Dow Jones Sustainability Index for Fourth Consecutive Year", Kroger, September 13, 2016, © The Kroger Company

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Carrefour Joins Dow Jones Sustainability Index Europe September 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Carrefour was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index Europe for 2016. DJSI highlighted Carrefour's long-term commitment to sustainability as a core part of its business strategy. Only the best-performing companies are eligible for the DJSI, and Carrefour is the only French company included in the 12 top companies in the Food & Staples Retailing category. "Carrefour selected for the Dow Jones Sustainability Index Europe (DJSI)", Carrefour, September 13, 2016, © Carrefour

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Personal Care Market Suffers Sales Decline In UK, Kantar Worldpanel Says September 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In the UK, the toiletries market saw a 2.1 percent decline year on year, according to Kantar Worldpanel. Oral care was the only category that posted sales growth, albeit slower than the previous period, at 2.8 percent YoY. Bathroom categories with the worst decline rates were men's skincare and sun preparations, data revealed. All of the UK's big 4 retailers posted losses in the market, with Asda reporting the worst with ₤17 million in lost sales. Nathan May, "Ongoing struggle for health & beauty market – Market monitor", Retail-Week, September 13, 2016, © EMAP Publishing Limited Company

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Target Tests Updated Cartwheel Mobile Loyalty App In Several Markets September 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Target is conducting a pilot study of a revised version of its Cartwheel mobile loyalty program. Aimed at expanding the program's focus on points-based rewards, the changes allow shoppers to earn 10 points per dollar they spend in-store and pick from different rewards earned upon reaching specified thresholds. With the testing being done in the St. Louis, Denver, San Diego, and Houston markets, Cartwheel lets shoppers earn Perks points by scanning their Cartwheel bar code at checkout. Alex Samuely, "Target Debuts Points-Based Rewards Program, Adding More Capabilities to Cartwheel", Mobile Commerce Daily, September 13, 2016, © Napean LLC

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Fast-Food Chains Say: Eat Tons Of Our Food, It’s Got Healthy Stuff In It September 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The fast-food industry has launched a crusade to educate consumers about the wholesome ingredients they are serving up these days. Chipotle, McDonald’s, Sweetgreens, Panera, Wendy’s, etc., are all trying to convince health-conscious Americans that eating out is a healthful experience. However, it’s really not. A Canadian obesity expert says the campaign may be “well-intentioned” but it is still a marketing strategy that actually distracts from the fact that fast food is a major contributor to the obesity epidemic. Touting wholesome ingredients masks the real problem: people eat too much food too often at fast-food restaurants. Candice Choi, "Big Food's Biggest Trend? Crusading Against Big Food", Associated Press, September 12, 2016, © Associated Press

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L'Oreal Travel Retail Announces Key Executive Appointments September 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST L’Oreal Travel Retail said it has appointed Emmanuel Goulin as managing director of L’Oreal Travel Retail Asia Pacific, replacing Eva Yu. Also, the company announced it has named Yannick Raynaud L’Oreal Travel Retail Americas managing director, replacing Javier Labarta. Goulin joined Travel Retail Europe in 2005, while Yannick started her career with L’Oreal Paris and Maybelline in Latine America in 1998. Kapila Gohel , "L’Oréal Travel Retail makes key regional appointments", Duty Free News International, September 12, 2016, © Metropolis Business Publishing

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