Amazon Plans To Open 100 Stores In US September 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Amazon plans to open around 100 pop-up stores in shopping malls in 2017, according to Business Insider. Aimed at selling the online retailer’s lineup of electronics, including its Amazon Basics devices, the stores will occupy about 300 square feet to 500 square feet of mall space. With Amazon introducing private-label devices, the company’s pop-up stores are likely to pose a threat to electronics retailers, such as Best Buy and Staples. Aimee Picchi, "Amazon May Roll Out of Dozens of Pop-Up Stores", CBS News, September 12, 2016, © CBS Interactive Inc.

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Metro Cash & Carry Opens 23rd India Store In Lucknow September 11, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Metro Cash & Carry opened a store in Lucknow, the retailer’s 23rd store in India. According to the company, it plans to open 27 more stores to have 50 locations in the country by 2020. Instead of expanding across the country, Metro Cash & Carry plans to focus its expansion on existing markets, such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai. "Metro Cash & Carry to focus on existing market in India for expansion", Livemint, September 11, 2016, © HT Media Ltd.

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Kroger Posts Strong Sales Growth In 2Q 2016 September 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Kroger Co. reported supermarket sales, minus fuel, grew 1.7 percent in the second quarter of 2016, compared with the same quarter in the previous year. With effects of charges excluded, net earnings for the quarter were $454 million, or $0.47 per diluted share, compared with $433 million, or $0.44 per diluted share, in the same quarter of 2015. According to the company, total sales rose 4.0 percent to $26.6 billion, compared with $25.5 billion in the same quarter of the previous year. Total sales, with fuel excluded, grew 7.3 percent during the quarter, compared with the previous year. "Kroger Reports Second Quarter Results", Kroger, September 09, 2016, © The Kroger Company

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Virtual Reality And Augmented Reality Offer Retailers New Ways Of Reaching Customers September 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies are expected to significantly affect the retail industry. Retailers seeking to integrate VR and AR into their business models should first decide which technology to use for specific applications, then determine whether the application is for in-store or out-of-store use. Also, retailers need to identify their customers who would prefer an AR or VR solution, then establish the technology's value proposition. Retailers need to connect the solution to their business model, establishing measurable financial or customer-engagement objectives to make sure the VR/AR solution is creating value for the business. Dan McKone et al, "Virtual and Augmented Reality Will Reshape Retail", Harvard Business Review, September 09, 2016, © Harvard Business School Publishing

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Lidl UK Chief Executive Gottschlich Leaves Company September 9, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Lidl UK chief executive Ronny Gottschlich has left the discount retailer effective immediately. With the company not disclosing the reasons for Gottschlich’s departure, Lidl has named Christian Hartnagel as his replacement. Gottschlich oversaw Lidl’s rapid expansion in the UK and received a 56 percent increase in pay in 2015 after the company’s annual sales reached £4.7 billion. Luke Tugby, "Lidl UK boss Gottschlich makes shock exit and is replaced by Christian Härtnagel", Retail Week, September 09, 2016, © EMAP Publishing Limited

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Lowe's Deploys NAVii Robots To Several Bay Area Stores September 7, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retailer Lowe's has started using robots at 11 of its stores in the Bay Area. Expected to run for seven months, the pilot implementation is using NAVii robots from Fellow Robots and follows a two-year pilot program which used a first-generation robot called OSHbot. Other retailers are also deploying robots, with Target using inventory robot Tally from Simbe Robotics and Best Buy testing customer service robot Chloe it co-developed with PaR Systems. Previously used in behind-the-scene applications, robots are now increasingly being used on the retail floor. "Robots in Aisle 10: Will Shoppers Like Them?", Wharton University of Pennsylvania, September 07, 2016, © Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania

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Whole Foods’ Expansion Plan Is Heading In The Wrong Direction September 7, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Whole Foods Market’s aggressive expansion plan has led to the building of stores in neighborhoods and malls that don’t quite fit with the grocer’s upscale product line and image, or its market demographic. The company is steadily losing the natural-and-organic crowd to lower-priced competitors like Walmart, Trader Joe’s and Kroger. So it seems like a mistake to put new stores next to Dress Barns, Kmarts and Shoe Carnivals. Wall Street analysts say the grocer should be building stores where wealthy shoppers can afford expensive cuts of meat and exotic facial oils. With the grocer’s stock already down by 50 percent since 2013 and same-store sales slipping, expansion into lower-income neighborhoods “will trip them up” further, a Motley Fool analyst says. Craig Giammona, "Wall Street Wants Whole Foods to Stick to the Quinoa Crowd", Bloomberg, September 07, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

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Target Tries To Pump New Life Into Its Sagging Grocery Operations September 7, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In an effort to jump start sluggish food sales, retailer Target is focusing on strengthening the grocery staff. The chain is building dedicated 10- to 60-person grocery teams – they will no longer work in other store departments – who are being trained in handling backroom inventory and interacting with customers. The changes have already been implemented in 450 stores and will be expanded to another 150 next month. The company is also hiring regional grocery directors who will each oversee 60 stores and report directly to headquarters. The new setup is a step in the right direction, according to analysts, but is unlikely to convince consumers that Target is the place to go grocery shopping. Khadeeja Safdar, "Target Revamps Staffing for Grocery Business", The Wall Street Journal, September 07, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Whole Foods Adds Executive Muscle To Global Marketing, HR, Communications September 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Whole Foods Market may be gearing up for international expansion with the just announced addition of three “global vice presidents.” The three new top executives, who will be located at company headquarters in Austin, Texas, will handle global marketing, human resources, and communications. Sonya Gafsi Oblisk (formerly of Sam’s Club) will head up marketing, advertising and brand development efforts, including digital, brand marketing and customer relationship strategies. Martin Tracey (Starbucks) will manage human resources, including recruitment, compensation and benefits. Brooke Buchanan (Theranos) will head up public relations, internal communications and government affairs. Whole Foods has stores in Canada, the U.K., and 42 U.S. states. "Whole Foods Market welcomes three new global vice presidents", News release, Whole Foods Market, September 06, 2016, © Whole Foods Market

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Kroger Now Selling Cheaper Cage-Free Eggs September 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Kroger announced it will expand its cage-free egg offerings to include lower-priced own-label varieties in response to rising demand for eggs from humanely-raised chickens. A year ago only nine percent of eggs sold in grocery stores were from cage-free chickens. But that percentage is rising steadily as Kroger and dozens of other producers and retailers commit to cage-free eggs. Kroger has been selling cage-free eggs under its premium Simple Truth and Simple Truth Organic store brands. The new more affordable cage-free eggs will sell for about $2.49 a dozen, a dollar more than standard eggs. Alexander Coolidge, "Kroger takes a crack at cage-free egg expansion", The Cincinnati Enquirer (Ohio), September 06, 2016, © Cincinnati.com

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Kroger Launches Own Line Of Affordable Cage-Free Eggs September 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retailer Kroger Co. launched the Cage-Free Eggs own-label line of affordable cage-free eggs. Kroger also sells cage-free eggs under the Simple Truth and Simple Truth Organic brands. Kroger announced in March 2016 its plan to sell only cage-free eggs by 2025. In 2015, 15 percent of the eggs sold by the company were cage free, compared with the industry average of 9 percent. "Kroger Launches New Line of Affordable Cage-Free Eggs", Kroger, September 06, 2016, © Global Market Intelligence/The Kroger Company

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Aldi Launches Affordable Line Of High-End Anti-Aging Skincare Products In Australia September 6, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Discount retailer Aldi said it will launch its Lacura Skin Science Icellage line of anti-aging skincare products in Australia. Each of the four products included in the range costs less than $20, with each item containing ingredients found in high-end skincare products. Based on the cells of an Alpine flower that survived the Ice Age, the products will be available as part of the retailer's Special Buys promotion. Laura House , "Luxury skincare without the hefty price tag! Aldi to launch exclusive anti-ageing range... and EVERY item is under $20!", Daily Mail , September 06, 2016, © Associated Newspapers Ltd

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Shiseido Travel Retail Names New VP Of Business Development September 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Shiseido Travel Retail said it has named Evelyne Ly-Wainer as vice president of business development. Based in Singapore and reporting to company president Philippe Lesne, Ly-Wainer will identify trends and develop strategic growth opportunities for the business. She will collaborate with Shiseido's global marketing team and regional managers based in Singapore, Miami, and Paris. Martin Moodie, "Shiseido Travel Retail names Evelyne Ly-Wainer as Vice-President Business Development", The Moodie Davitt Report, September 05, 2016, © The Moodie Davitt Report

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Tesco Adds 20 Stores To Scan As You Shop Trial Run September 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Tesco is expanding the coverage of its Scan as You Shop service to an additional 20 stores. Part of the retailer's efforts to reduce the time customers spend at the checkout, the Scan as You Shop service lets customers scan products while doing their in-store shopping. Available at self-service and manned checkouts, the service now covers 350 stores across the UK. "Tesco rolls out Scan as you Shop service in more stores", Tesco, September 05, 2016, © Tesco Stores Ltd

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Metro Group's Demerger Enters Next Phase September 5, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Metro Group's Management Board, following the completion of the analysis phase, said it plans to start preparations for the company's demerger into two independent, listed companies. With pro-forma organizational separation to take place on September 30, 2016, the actual split and public listing of the resulting corporate identities are expected to be completed in the middle of 2017. According to the company, proposals for supervisory board chairmen and management board positions have been made and the groundwork for corporate and tax set-up and capital structure was prepared. "METRO GROUP’s demerger is taking shape", METRO GROUP, September 05, 2016, © METRO GROUP

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Carrefour Launches E-Voucher Program In Taiwan August 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Carrefour launched the Carrefour Ticket Xpress, the retailer's first digital voucher service, in Taiwan. Developed by France-based corporate services company, Edenred, the e-voucher is designed to support retail and mobile payment systems. According to the retailer, the e-voucher program is available at loyalty programs offered by various service provider, such as banks, payment apps, and online stores. Consumers participating in the program can use their reward points to have their e-voucher delivered to their mobile phones. By scanning the barcode at any of Carrefour's 87 stores across the country, consumers can use the e-voucher to pay for their purchases. "Carrefour Taiwan launches e-voucher platform", Retail Analysis, August 31, 2016, © The Institute of Grocery Distribution and IGD Services Limited

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Metro Group Unites Communications, Public Policy Functions August 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Global retailer Metro Group has named Michael Wedell to head the newly unified corporate communications and public policy function. Wedell has been the group director of corporate public policy. The company also named Rüdiger Stahlschmidt to head corporate communications, which includes both internal and external communications. The company said the functional unification will allow better communication with the relevant target groups, and intensified, more efficient, cooperation. “Bundling the political, external and internal communications is of particular importance for the strategic positioning of the group and will enhance a clear approach to all stakeholders,” the company said in a statement. "Metro Group combines the functions Corporate Communications and Public Policy", News release, Metro Group, August 31, 2016, © Metro Group

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Wal-Mart Wins In Mexico With Multi-Format Approach August 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walmart of Mexico and Central America’s multi-format strategy, which covers hypermarkets, discount-bodega stores, and warehouse clubs, has positioned the company for long-term success in Mexico. Walmex’s efforts to improve operations, including logistics, and integration of its digital platforms have strengthened the company’s competitiveness as the local retail market reaches its peak growth. Walmex also enjoys a significant lead in the local online retail market over Amazon, which came to Mexico relatively later than it did in other markets. Howard Lake, "Wal-Mart’s Long Game Poised to Reap Rewards in Mexico", National Retail Federation, August 31, 2016, © National Retail Federation

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Food Halls Find A Welcoming Home In Chicago August 30, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Chicago, Ill., already a great city for dining out, is fast becoming acquainted with the food hall trend. Similar to fast-food food courts in shopping malls, food halls offer a high-traffic venue for artisanal and specialty cuisine purveyors, lively food stalls and upscale restaurants. The phenomenon reflects the influence of the Millennial generation that seeks casual but high-quality dining experiences. Everyone seems to benefit from food halls. Customers create their own dining and drinking events in a food market atmosphere, combining menu items from different vendors. Participating restaurants can strut their stuff before a broader audience while sharing overhead expenses with competitors. Jay Kitterman, "Epicuriosity 101: Food Halls – a New Trend in Chicago Dining", The State Journal-Register, August 30, 2016, © Gatehouse Media, LLC

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Jersey Shore Bakery Scores A Hit With Scrapple Pie August 28, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Grocery shoppers in the meat or deli department often notice – and mostly turn their noses up at – every day the refrigerated blocks of specially-prepared pork offal known as scrapple. An East Coast, Pennsylvania Dutch breakfast tradition, scrapple has become the best-selling pie flavor at Wards Pastry Shop in Ocean City, N.J. Owner Walter Hohman was looking for something new that might appeal to the Philadelphia crowd that heads to the Jersey Shore every summer. A friend suggested scrapple, and a pie sensation was created, despite some initial skepticism. The scrapple is prebaked, stuffed into a pie crust, topped with buttery streusel and baked. Hohman says his bakery sells more scrapple pie, at $4.50 each, than apple. Jacqueline L. Urgo, "Scrapple Pie? No Kidding. It Outsells Apple in Ocean City", Philly.com, August 28, 2016, © Philadelphia Media Network (Digital) LLC

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Tesco Sells Euphorium Bakery Chain To Soho Coffee, Samworth Brothers August 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST UK retailer Tesco has agreed to sell Euphorium Bakery chain to casual dining operator Soho Coffee. Covered by the purchase deal are the four high-street stores of the bakery chain and its factory in Islington. Soho Coffee plans to continue operating the stores under the Euphorium brand. In another transaction, Tesco sold the bakery chain's Weybridge factory to long-time supplier Samworth Brothers. George Macdonald et al, "Tesco Sells Euphorium Bakery a Year After Taking Full Ownership", Retail Week, August 26, 2016, © Webvision

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Sephora Opens 400th Store On Chicago's Magnificent Mile August 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Sephora opened a new store, the beauty retailer's 400th location, on Chicago's Magnificent Mile. According to Sephora Americas president and CEO Calvin McDonald, the company launched its Beauty TIP Workshop retail concept as part of its efforts to “reset, rethink,” its business. McDonald said the concept's “teaching beauty” element gives the retailer a competitive advantage over its rivals. Sephora's optimism when it comes to having physical stores comes from its strategy of using brick-and-mortar stores to “provide a service, a mini-makeover,” and because they are designed to teach beauty, McDonald said. Lauren Zumbach, "Sephora's Magnificent Mile Store Has New, High-Tech Look", Chicago Tribune, August 26, 2016, © Chicago Tribune

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Online Sales Of Hair Care And Color Products Growing, Report Shows August 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Online sales of hair care and color products are growing, according to market research firm L2. Data from the report, “Hair Care & Color,” revealed e-commerce share of retail sales of haircare products grew 14 percent year on year. Lower-margin consumer brands are driving online sales, the company said. Homa Zaryouni, "Why Hair Care Brands Should Work With E-Tailers", L2 Daily, August 25, 2016, © L2 Inc.

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Starbucks Battles Hunger – And Food Waste – With FoodShare Program August 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Starbucks restaurant chain, which announced an anti-waste initiative in March, says it has donated 300,000 meals to local food banks across the U.S. The FoodShare initiative was launched to fight food waste and hunger with the help of the Food Donation Connection and Feeding America. FDC workers pick up Starbucks' surplus food using refrigerated vans, and redistribute it to food pantries. In its first year five million ready-made meals will be distributed to charities and expects that number to increase to 50 million meals within five years. The company will expand the program from the current 1,150 Starbucks locations to all 7,600 by 2019. Leanna Garfield, "Starbucks is Trying a New Initiative to Stop Wasting so Much Food", Business Insider, August 25, 2016, © Business Insider Inc.

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Viable High-Tech Solutions To Grocery Store Food Waste Disposal Do Exist August 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Disposal of grocery store produce that is damaged, ugly, or otherwise surplus because of faulty buying, but cannot be donated, is a major economic and environmental problem. Produce decaying in landfills, for example – 35 percent of all landfill waste – is a major source of methane gas. A variety of emerging technologies can help solve the problem. But perhaps the best is so-called “Big Data.” A supermarket of any size that has access to real-time information and analytics tracking processes related to food disposal can better manage the amount and timing of what they order. This would ensure that most of the food brought into stores is destined for consumer refrigerators, not landfills. Meanwhile, unsold items are minimized and disposed of safely. Frank E. Celli, "How Big Data Can Help Supermarkets Tackle Food Waste", Supermarket News, August 24, 2016, © Penton

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Dollar General Cuts Grocery Prices; Follows Lead Of Other Big Retailers August 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Seeking to boost sales growth, Dollar General said it is cutting prices on hundreds of items across 2,000 stores. Dollar General's move comes after leading retailers Kroger, Trader Joe's, and Walmart had also announced similar price-cutting moves driven by growing competition. Kroger announced lower prices for 1,000 popular grocery items in 120 of the company's stores, while Trader Joe's cut prices without much fanfare. Walmart's price cuts are in line with the retailer's investment launched in the first quarter of 2016. German discount retailer Aldi plans to add 500 new stores to its current 1,500 store count in the US. Hayley Peterson, "Walmart, Kroger, and Dollar General are Slashing Prices", Business Insider, August 25, 2016, © Business Insider Inc.

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Tesco Malaysia Lays Off 600 Employees August 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Tesco Stores (M) Sdn Bhd is cutting its workforce in Malaysia by about 600 employees. In March 2016, 130 of the hypermarket operator's headquarters employees opted to avail themselves of a voluntary separation scheme. According to the company, the layoffs are part of its turnaround strategy and efforts to cut its losses. Vasantha Ganesan , "Tesco cuts about 600 jobs in Malaysia", The Edge Markets, August 24, 2016, © The Edge Communications

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Tesco Announces 3-Hour Store Pick-Up Service In UK August 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST UK retailer Tesco plans to offer a service that will allow customers to pick up their purchased items from any of the company's 300 stores within three hours after placing their order online. Accounting for about 10 percent of the country's grocery spending, online orders are forecast to rise to ₤15 billion by 2020, according to market research firm Mintel. Tesco's latest offering helps it get farther ahead of rival J Sainsbury, which began testing a same-day delivery and collection service in July 2016. Mark Vandevelde, "Tesco offers 3-hour online order collection", Financial Times, August 24, 2016, © The Financial Times Limited

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Walgreens Balance Rewards Loyalty Program Embraces Android Pay August 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walgreens added the Android Pay mobile payment platform to its Walgreens Balance Rewards customer loyalty program. Aimed at accommodating program members who own non-iOS mobile devices, the integration will allow Android smartphone users to also enjoy “more seamless checkout experiences” previously available only to iPhone users. Benefits offered by Balance Rewards include faster checkout process and easier ways of earning and redeeming points. Android Pay is available for download from the Google Play online store. Alex Samuely, "Walgreens Expands Mobile Payments Portfolio Via Android Pay-supported Balance Rewards", Mobile Commerce Daily, August 23, 2016, © Napean LLC

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Retail Ecommerce Sales Expected To Grow Faster Than Overall Market In 2016 Through 2020, Report Shows August 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Total retail sales worldwide are forecast to grow 6.0 percent to $22.049 trillion in 2016, according to eMarketer. Data from the report, “Worldwide Retail Ecommerce Sales: The eMarketer Forecast for 2016,” growth will continue albeit in slower rates to reach $27 trillion in sales by 2020. According to the market research firm, retail ecommerce sales will reach $1.915 trillion in 2016, or 8.7 percent of the world’s total retail spending. Unlike the overall retail market’s slower growth rate during the period covered by the study, retail ecommerce sales are forecast to jump 23.7 percent in 2016. In 2020, retail ecommerce sales will grow to $4.058 trillion, accounting for 14.6 percent of total retail spending, the company said. "Worldwide Retail Ecommerce Sales Will Reach $1.915 Trillion This Year", eMarketer, August 22, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

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UK Retail Market Posts Fastest Growth In August 2016 Quarter August 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In the UK, the grocery market grew 0.3 percent during the 12-week period ending August 14, 2016, according to Kantar Worldpanel. Data from the market research firm's latest report showed the sunny weather drove sales growth for the frozen confectionery segment, with 23 percent, and chilled drinks, 10 percent. Promotional sales dropped to 37.7 percent of total grocery sales from more than 40 percent recorded in 2015. Aldi saw sales rising by 10.4 percent, with its market share also going up 0.6 percentage points to 6.2 percent. Tesco's sales dropped 0.4 percent, the slowest decline rate for the retailer in six months. Co-op's market share expanded to 6.6 percent, driven by the 2.8 percent increase in sales. Fraser McKevitt, "Grocery market heats up while promotions cool", Kantar Worldpanel, August 22, 2016, © Kantar Worldpanel

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Strong Technology And Supply Chain Provide Winning Formula For Target August 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In the year since Mike McNamara took over the CIO job at Target, he realized that prioritizing the company’s 800 IT projects was Job One. He and his team whittled the “to do” list down to a hundred that represented Target’s top business objectives. These included enhancing the company’s online and in-store shopping experience, supporting small-format stores, modernizing the supply chain, and improving in-stocks. The result, according to McNamara, was “nothing short of sensational,” as the company reduced reliance on third party IT consultants from 70 percent to 30 percent, saving hundreds of millions of dollars. Stability and performance of key retail systems – i.e., cash registers and hand-held devices – have improved. McNamara believes that retailers with the strongest technology and supply chain  have the best chance of success. "Target CIO: Prioritizing Stores, Digital, Supply Chain and Hiring Engineers", News release, Target , August 22, 2016, © Target Brands, Inc.

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Could This Really Be Col. Sanders’ Secret Fried Chicken Recipe? Nephew Says “Yes” August 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A nephew of Col. Harland D. Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken fame gave a Chicago Tribune reporter – and the world – what he believes is the original “finger lickin’ good” recipe of 11 herbs and spices. Although KFC officialy denied the recipe is authentic – it’s been a tightly kept secret for many years – 67-year-old Joe Ledington is pretty sure it’s the same ingredients he used to mix up every day for his uncle in Corbin, Ky., back in the 1960s before KFC became a corporate behemoth. Where was the recipe found? On a handwritten note on the back of a page of the Last Will & Testament of Joe’s Aunt Claudia, the Colonel’s second wife, who died in 1996. Jay Jones, "KFC Recipe Revealed? Tribune Shown Family Scrapbook with 11 Herbs and Spices", Chicago Tribune, August 19, 2016, © Chicago Tribune

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Sephora Opens First Beauty TIP Workshop Store In Toronto August 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Beauty retailer Sephora opened its first Canadian Beauty TIP Workshop store at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto. One of the company’s four stores in North America featuring its Teach, Inspire, Play concept, the retail location will feature digital technology combined with services to offer a “truly revolutionary” shopping experience for consumers. Part of Sephora’s efforts to ramp up marketing for the Greater Toronto Area, the store has been renovated based on what the company views as a next-generation environment promoting discovery and innovation. "Sephora redefines the future of Canadian beauty retail with a new concept store in Toronto", CNW, August 19, 2016, © CNW Group Ltd.

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Seafood Quick-Service Chain’s Mobile Campaign Explains Sustainability Efforts August 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Fast-seafood chain Long John Silver’s has launched a social responsibility mobile ad campaign with a video on sustainability that highlights its primary menu items – 100 percent wild-caught Alaskan pollock and cod – and tells viewers about its continuous monitoring of Northern Pacific waters. Fishing quotas for the two fish species are regularly adjusted to ensure the species’ strength and survival. The two-minute video was filmed in Alaska and features narration alongside clips showing the state’s Pacific shores. Other videos in the campaign appearing on Vine, YouTube and Facebook, will discuss family and food quality. Alex Samuely, "Long John Silver’s Highlights Corporate Sustainability With Snackable Mobile Videos", Mobile Marketer, August 19, 2016, © Napean LLC

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Walmart’s Stellar Online Sales Quarter Also Saw A Rise In Store Traffic August 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST After several years, and billions of dollars in investment, Walmart is finally reporting an upbeat online sales picture. Second-quarter (ending July 31) online sales leapt 11.8 percent, after nine quarters of sluggishness. The encouraging sales report, observers say, was due to a mix of factors, including the roll-out of its Walmart Pay mobile app, expansion of free grocery pickup for online orders, and the launch of an Amazon Prime-like subscription service. But perhaps most encouraging was the fact that Walmart succeeded in boosting store traffic –  up 1.2 percent – while increasing online buying. The results prove the company’s strategic axiom: digital sales and store sales must be symbiotic. Phil Wahba, "Here's How Walmart Is Reigniting Its E-Commerce Growth", Fortune, August 18, 2016, © Time Inc.

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Wal-Mart Posts Slight Revenue Growth In Q2 Of FY 2017 August 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart reported total revenue grew 0.5 percent to $120.9 billion in the second half of fiscal 2017, compared with the same quarter in the previous year. Total revenue, on a constant currency basis, grew 2.8 percent to $123.6 billion, the company said. U.S. operations posted 1.6 percent growth in comp sales, helped by the seventh consecutive quarter of traffic growth. According to the company, its Neighborhood Market business saw an increase in comp sales of about 6.5 percent. Walmart International posted net sales of $28.6 billion. Without currency impact, net sales rose 2.2 percent to $31.3 billion, compared with the same period in the previous year. "Walmart reports Q2 FY17 EPS of $1.21, adjusted EPS* of $1.07", Wal-Mart, August 18, 2016, © Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

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Walmart Reaps Benefits Of Investment In Ecommerce, Store Environment, And Employees August 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Though some other big retailers – e.g., Target and Macy’s – are slogging their way through a period of sluggish store spending, Walmart is sailing along on prosperous seas. After investing billions of dollars into making its U.S. stores more efficient and pleasant, raising employee wages, and streamlining ecommerce operations, the company reports not only increased online sales but higher store traffic (assisted in part by lower gas prices). Walmart’s online sales rose faster than the previous quarter – the first time this has happened in nine quarters. For the quarter ended July 31, Walmart profits were up 8.6 percent, and revenue crept up by 0.5 percent to $120.85 billion. Sarah Nassauer, "Wal-Mart Store Overhauls Help Boost Sales", The Wall Street Journal, August 18, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Macy's Names Richard Lennox Marketing Chief August 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Macy's Inc. appointed Richard Lennox as chief marketing officer effective September 15, 2016. Lennox succeeds Martine Reardon who departed the company after 32 years with the department store company. Lennox was Toys 'R' Us's marketing chief, leading the toy retailer's “awesome” brand position and marketing campaigns. Tess Stynes, "Macy’s Names Retail Veteran as Its New Marketing Chief", The Wall Street Journal, August 18, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Metro Cash & Carry Eyes Expansion In India; Plans 50 New Stores By 2020 August 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Metro Cash & Carry plans to invest Rs 2,100 crore in India, one of the company's focus markets, to open 50 stores across the country by 2020, according to Metro AG head for Asia, Damien Veilleroy. After operating for 14 years in the country, Metro has adapted its operating model to the market realities in India, Veilleroy said. Unlike in most other markets where it operates, Metro in India is managed by local executives. Rasul Bailay, "India one of the countries where Metro will invest most in future: Damien Veilleroy, Asia Head, Metro AG", Economic Times, August 18, 2016, © Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.

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Lidl Builds Expanded IT And Data Hub August 16, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Discount retailer Lidl plans to upgrade its warehouse data and install new IT tools in order to improve market and consumer insight. By building a new data hub, which involves the rollout of an integrated business intelligence system combining a Teradata data warehouse structure DWH 4.0 with SAP and Business Warehouse module, Lidl aims to be able to perform Big Data analysis. Lidl’s move to the Hana platform will enable Lidl to assess huge volumes of data from the SAP ERP system. Also, the data hub will include BI tools and Big Data tools from MicroStrategy, SAS, Ab Initio, and Hadoop. "LIDL Investing In Robust Data", Retail Analysis, August 16, 2016, © The Institute of Grocery Distribution and IGD Services Limited

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Supermarkets Turn To “Experiential Retailing” To Grow Market Share August 15, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Though 25 percent of U.S. grocery shoppers say they are spending more at supermarkets, Mintel data show otherwise. Consumers are actually more likely to shop for groceries at other channels, like mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs and drug stores. Nearly two in five consumers shop secondarily at Walmart, the highest retailer “also shopped” for groceries. Total U.S. multi-outlet sales of groceries will rise 2.5 percent this year to $652 billion, but supermarket sales will grow only 1.9 percent to $317.8 billion. The result? To compete, grocers are turning to innovation and experiential retailing to hold onto or grow market share. For example, ShopRite in Morristown, N.J., offers an in-store restaurant, juice bar, oyster bar and a daycare center for shoppers with children. A store in Hanover Township (N.Y.) includes a fitness studio and a cosmetologist on weekends. Diana Smith, "US Grocery Stores Struggle To Keep Up", Blog entry, Mintel, August 15, 2016, © Mintel Group Ltd.

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India's Online Retail Market Expected To Keep Growing, Report Says August 15, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retail ecommerce sales in India will grow 75.8 percent to $23.39 billion in 2016, compared with 2015, according to eMarketer. Data from the market research firm’s report, “India Retail Ecommerce 2016: The Relentless Rise in Mobile Sales,” predicts strong growth during the next few years, with sales reaching $79.41 billion in 2020. Online sales, however, will account for only 2.5 percent of total retail sales in 2016, rising to 5.0 percent in 2020. Retail ecommerce growth is forecast to be driven by mobile, which will account for $15.27 billion in 2016 sales, an increase of 96.3 percent from 2015. Indian consumers’ growing adoption of smartphones is driving growth in mobile ecommerce. "India's Retail Ecommerce Sector Is Small but Still Growing", eMarketer, August 15, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

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Cos Bar Plans To Open 35 New Beauty Stores August 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Cos Bar plans to open 35 new stores in key markets across the US over the next 4‒5 years, according to company co-founder and chief merchandising officer Lily Garfield. Now on its 40 years of business operations, the 14-store chain is one of the first specialty cosmetics retailers. Private equity firm Tengram Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in the company in December 2015, paving the way for the proposed expansion. With Cos Bar valued by industry sources at about $25 million, the company aims to quadruple sales in the next several years. Also, the company, which carries brands, including La Mer, Tom Ford, and Bobbi Brown, is also expanding its cosbar.com online store. Rachel Strugatz, "Cos Bar to Expand Luxe Beauty Concept, Open 35 Doors", Women’s Wear Daily, August 13, 2016, © Fairchild Fashion Media

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New Innovation Center Helps Walmart Fine-Tune New Product Launches August 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST It’s important for Walmart to get its grocery offerings just right, because grocery accounts for 56 percent of sales. To accomplish that, the company has opened a 12,000 ft2 culinary and innovation center in Arkansas outfitted with 10 kitchens, including replicas of in-store bakery and deli kitchens, as well as stoves, ovens and microwaves like those found in customer homes. A sensory lab provides staff with food and beverage feedback from customers and employees on topics like texture, saltiness, and sweetness. The company shares findings with suppliers, saving money and shortening product launch times. Anne D'innocenzio, "A Look At Wal-Mart's Food Lab, Aimed At Developing New Items", Associated Press, August 12, 2016, © Associated Press

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Spending Trends Make Some Retail Sectors Skittish August 12, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retail sales in the U.S. were sluggish in July, especially among clothing and electronic goods vendors, where shopping is shifting from brick-and-mortar stores to the Internet. It’s not because American consumers aren’t spending. After all, unemployment is down, income is up, and energy prices remain low. U.S. households have increased spending every quarter since the end of 2009. But there has been a shift in where Americans spend, toward entertainment, travel and healthcare -- and online. The experts don’t seem alarmed. One economist said the news signals “a pause in a good pace of spending”, while a global forecaster expects a 2.6 percent gain in gross domestic product this quarter over a year earlier. Still some sectors have reason to be nervous: consumer spending is falling at sporting goods stores, food and beverage stores, restaurants and bars. Suzanne Kapner et al., "Where We Spend Is Upending Traditional Retail", The Wall Street Journal, August 12, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Women Internet Users In France Buy Cosmetics From Brand-Owned Online Stores August 11, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In France, seven in 10 women who use the Internet and have bought cosmetics online have bought facial care products, such as creams and cleansers, according to CCM Benchmark. Results of the market research firm's April 2016 survey revealed more than 60 percent have also bought makeup and body care products from online stores. Also, 57 percent of respondents said they have purchased from brands' online stores, while 50 percent said they have bought from sites operated by retail chains, such as Sephora. Only 32 percent said they have bought from online retailers, such as Amazon. "Most Women in France Buy Cosmetics Online", eMarketer , August 11, 2016, © eMarketer Inc

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Aldi Australia Wins Industry's Retailer Of The Year Award; Eyes More Expansion Across Country August 10, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Discount retailer Aldi won the Retailer of the Year award at the 2016 Australian Retail Association Eftpos Australia Retail Awards. According to the awards judges, they chose the company based on its track record in creating original marketing strategies, developing innovations in personnel management, and coming up with add-value-for-money strategies. ARA Retailer of the Year 2015, Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics, was the runner-up. Also, the industry organization commended Aldi for its continuing expansion plans. It now has 400 stores across eastern Australia, with plans to build 70 stores in Western Australia, and as many as 50 to be built in South Australia. Dinushi Dias , "Aldi crowned Australia’s Retailer of the Year as it embarks on major expansion of more than 100 new stores", Smart Company, August 10, 2016, © Private Media Pty Ltd.

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Metro Cash & Carry Opens Store Number 22; Becomes Larger Wholesaler Than Walmart In India August 10, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Metro Cash & Carry opened a new cash-and-carry store in Bengaluru. With the store's opening, Metro now has 22 wholesale locations and has overtaken rival Walmart India's Best Price Modern Wholesale, which has 21 wholesale stores. Metro plans to have 50 stores by 2020; however, Walmart aims at having 70 locations by that year. Claiming it has higher revenues and stronger operating metrics, Metro said it is testing a delivery service for register customers in Jaipur. Ranju Sarkar , "METRO ahead in store race", Business Standard, August 10, 2016, © Business Standard Private Ltd.

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New Whole Foods Store Features Advanced Eco-Friendly Refrigeration August 8, 2016: 12:00 AM EST A new advanced grocery refrigeration system installed by Whole Foods in California eliminates all direct greenhouse gas emissions. Unveiled in a new store in Santa Clara, the system prevents the release of the 7,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide normally generated by a typical supermarket. The Hydrocarbon/CO2 Cascade System cuts the environmental impact of refrigerants to zero by using propane, a natural refrigerant, to condense carbon dioxide, the eco-friendliest refrigerant available. At the same time, a heat-reclaim technology uses the heat generated by the system to preheat water for the store’s later use. "Whole Foods Installs Country’s Greenest Refrigeration System", Progressive Grocer, August 08, 2016, © Stagnito Business Information

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