CPG Companies' Ad Spending To Come Close To $6 Billion In 2016, Forecast Says May 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Consumer packaged goods and consumer products companies in the US will spend $5.97 billion on digital advertising in 2016, an increase of 18.2 percent compared with 2015, according to eMarketer. Data from the report “The US CPG and Consumer Products Industry 2016: Digital Ad Spending Forecast and Trends” revealed the segment will account for 8.7 percent of total digital advertising spending in the country for the year. Although this industry is among the largest advertisers in the country, it pales in comparison with other industries when it comes to digital advertising spending. "CPG Advertisers to Spend Nearly $6 Billion on Digital Advertising This Year", eMarketer, May 31, 2016, © eMarketer Inc.

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

General Mills Recalls Flour Products After Reports Of Bacterial Illnesses May 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST General Mills posted a notice on its website that it is recalling certain flour brands that may be contaminated with E. coli bacteria, though no consumers have reported any illnesses to the company.  Gold Medal, Wondra, and Signature Kitchens were mentioned in the notice. Customers of Safeway, Albertsons, Jewel, Shaws, Vons, United, Randalls and Acme were warned not to use the affected brands, which have best buy dates of August 23, 2016, to June 14, 2017. Federal and state officials are investigating 38 E. coli 0121 illness cases found in 20 states. About half said they had used flour or handled dough before getting sick. Michal Addady , "E. Coli Outbreak Could Be Linked to General Mills Flour", Fortune.com, May 31, 2016, © Time Inc.

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Sam's Club Gives Wal-Mart Something To Smile About In China May 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Sam's Club, Wal-Mart's membership-only retail warehouse club business, is doing well in China. Wal-Mart owns and operates 800 Sam's Club stores worldwide, and four of the top 10 locations are in China. Sam's Club in Shenzhen has been the company's number 1 location since 2008. Wal-Mart plans to add seven or more Sam's Club stores to the existing 13 in China by 2017. Its focus on attracting affluent consumers has helped the warehouse club business grow its sales and revenue in the country. Also, the company has seen growing sales after adopting Western-style packaging of seafoods and other fresh food products. Anne D'Innocenzio , "Wal-Mart's Sam's Club: A Bright Spot in China", ABC News, May 31, 2016, © ABC News Internet Ventures

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Pizza Hut To Remove Chemical Preservatives From Menu Items May 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Responding to concerns voiced by consumers regarding artificial ingredients in their foods, Pizza Hut says it will eliminate even more questionable additives from its menu items. The company a year ago removed artificial flavors and colors from its pizzas. Now it says it will remove the antioxidants BHA and BHT (and other preservatives) from its meats and cheeses, as well as antibiotics from chicken, by next March. Though removal of GMO ingredients from foods has garnered more headlines (thanks largely to a Vermont law taking effect next month), other companies, including Kellogg and General Mills, have announced plans to remove BHA and BHT from their products. Karen Robinson-Jacobs, "Plano-based Pizza Hut to ditch artificial preservatives as industry faces skeptical public", The Dallas Morning News, May 31, 2016, © The Dallas Morning News Inc.

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Carrefour Opens Warehouse Center In Guangdong Province, Its Fifth In China May 31, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Carrefour SA opened a distribution center in Dongguan, in China's Guangdong province. Part of the French retailer's expansion in the country, the Dongguan facility is Carrefour's fifth warehouse center in China. With its first phase having an area of 21,000 square meters, the facility will support the 30 stores in Guangdong, Hainan, and Fujian provinces, the company said. Qiu Quanlin, "Carrefour launches distribution center in S China's Guangdong", China Daily, May 31, 2016, © China Daily Information Co

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific China

Walmart SVP Marketing Makes It To Ad Age's Women To Watch 2016 May 30, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walmart senior vice president of marketing, Kirsten Evans, is on “Advertising Age” magazine's 2016 list of women executives who have made significant contributions to the media, marketing, and advertising fields. Before coming to Walmart, Evans was a marketing executive at Frito-Lay. She joined a group of Frito-Lay marketing professionals who joined the retailer 10 years ago. Jack Neff, "Ad Age's Women to Watch 2016: Kirsten Evans, Senior VP-marketing, Walmart", Advertising Age, May 30, 2016, © Crain Communications

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Lidl Plans To Spend €50 Million To Upgrade And Expand Store Network In Portugal May 30, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Discount retailer Lidl plans to invest €50 million to redesign and expand its store network in Portugal in 2016. Already the company has spent €12.5 million in the period January to May. As part of a €2.5-million investment, the retailer opened a store in Espinho, its 242th store in the country. "Lidl Portugal To Invest €50m In Store Network", European Supermarket Magazine, May 30, 2016, © European Supermarket Magazine

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To Dominate Online Beauty Retail Market, Amazon Launches Live Show; Leverages Leadership In Online Product Search May 29, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Online retailer Amazon launched the live show, “Style Code Live,” which gives viewers tips and advice on fashion and beauty care, as well as inspire them to buy online. Amazon's director of beauty and health & personal care Chance Wales, citing A.T. Kearney research “Beauty and the eCommerce Beast, said 53 percent of online beauty shoppers are described as “Creatures of Habit,” and are basically shopping to replenish their stock of beauty products. Amazon dominates online product search, 44 percent of online buyers said they start their product searches on Amazon. Consumers described by Kearney as “Online Enthusiasts,” comprise 31 percent of the respondents and also search for and purchase experiential products, including fragrances and color cosmetics. Amazon also aims to become the leader in the segment focused on consumers looking for new products. Keith Anderson, "Amazon: Beauty is in the eye of the consumer", Premium Beauty News, May 29, 2016, © Premium Beauty Media

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

Korean Cosmetics Brands Outperform Western Rivals In China Market May 29, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Exports of Korean cosmetics to China jumped 250 percent in 2015, accounting for almost 25 percent of all of the country's imported cosmetics. Driven by Chinese consumers' obsession with K-pop and love for traveling to South Korea, growing demand for Korean cosmetics has caused a drop in Western brands' market shares, by 4.8 percent for skincare and 3.8 percent for color cosmetics, of foreign beauty products. Data from L2 revealed Korean brands also have an advantage over their Western counterparts, with Innissfree the most-searched beauty brand on Baidu. "Why Korean Brands Are Gaining A Growing Edge Over European Competition In China", Jing Daily, May 29, 2016, © JINGDAILY

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Brands Market News Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific China South Korea

Amazon Hires Unilever Gulf Head To Become Number 2 Executive In India May 28, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Amazon India appointed Manish Tiwary, chief executive of Unilever's Gulf region business, as vice president of category management. Tiwary succeeds Samir Kumar, who is moving to Amazon's corporate headquarters in Seattle. Also, Tiwary is reportedly being considered as a future country manager to replace Amit Agarwal who is likely to be promoted. Mihir Dalal and Shrutika Verma, "Unilever Gulf chief Manish Tiwary joins Amazon India", Livemint, May 28, 2016, © HT Media Ltd.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Online Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific India

Discounted “Wonky” Veggies Win Over British Grocery Shoppers May 27, 2016: 12:00 AM EST British supermarkets, including Tesco and Asda, are reporting greater acceptance of so-called “wonky” (ugly or misshapen) fruits and vegetables, thanks to significant discounting. Tesco launched an initiative called Perfectly Imperfect in March with misshapen potatoes and parsnips, extended it to apples and strawberries in May, and hopes to broaden the range to 15 to 20 produce lines.  A Tesco executive called the program a huge success, with sales having grown tenfold. Sales of Perfectly Imperfect strawberries account for 10-15 percent of total category sales. Besides increasing sales, the initiative has also led to increased crop utilization and reduced food waste. Tesco is now taking 95 percent of strawberries from its suppliers, up from 85 percent. Apple utilization is at 97 percent. Ian Quinn et al., "Sales of new Perfectly Imperfect fruit & veg are 'flying' at Tesco", The Grocer, May 27, 2016, © William Reed Business Media Ltd

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Innovation Market News Operations Products & Pricing Trends Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Wal-Mart Still World's Largest Retailer, Forbes Says May 27, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart Stores is ranked number 15 and the world's largest retailer on Forbes' Global 2000 list of the world's biggest and most powerful public companies. Although its investments to expand its digital and online operations and planned closing of up to 269 stores, Wal-Mart's sales are growing. Numbers 2 and 3 retailers on the list are CVS Health and Walgreens Boots Alliance. Lauren Gensler, "The World's Largest Retailers 2016: Wal-Mart Dominates But Amazon Is Catching Up", Forbes, May 27, 2016, © Forbes Media LLC

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Sears Sees Last Hope For Survival Dimming As Home-Appliances Business Declines May 27, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Department-store chain Sears reported slightly improved profit due to cost cutting in the latest quarter, but sales dropped 8.3 percent during the period. Worse, the company's home-appliances business, its only hope for survival, is declining. To help improve its bottom line, the company said it plans to sell or license its Kenmore, Craftsman, and DieHard brands of home appliances. Hayley Peterson, "Sears is losing its last hope for staying in business", Business Insider, May 27, 2016, © Business Insider Inc.

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Whole Foods Opens First 365 Store In Los Angeles May 27, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Whole Foods Market has opened its first 365 retail store in Los Angeles. Combining affordability with the retailer's offerings of organic foods and natural personal care products, the 365 retail concept is designed to help the company attract millennial shoppers. In addition to private-label products, 365 also offers relatively affordable natural beauty brands, including Burt's Bees, Everyone by EO, and Alba Botanica. Rachel Brown , "Whole Foods Opens 365 Store With Slimmed-Down Beauty Assortment", Women's Wear Daily, May 27, 2016, © Fairchild Fashion Media

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Schwarz Plans To Invest €6.5 In Upgrading Lidl And Kaufland Stores In Germany May 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Schwarz, owner of Lidl, plans to invest €6.5 billion in 2016 to renovate and improve its stores in Germany, its home market. Lidl and its rival discounter Aldi have become retail giants in Europe; however, they are losing market share to local supermarkets in Germany. Part of Schwarz's planned investment will go to its Kaufland hypermarket division. Lidl will invest more than €3 billion in the next five years in its 3,200 stores in Germany. Emma Thomasson, "CORRECTED-Lidl owner to invest 6.5 bln euros in 2016 – newspaper", Reuters, May 26, 2016, © Thomson Reuters

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Germany

Beauty Industry Caters To Needs And Demands Of Millennial Consumers May 26, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Millennial women make up the biggest group of buyers for the $13 billion cosmetics market in the US. It is therefore imperative for the beauty industry, valued at $46.2 billion in 2015 and forecast to grow to $51.8 billion in 2020 by Mintel, to cater to the needs and demands of millennials. Millennials demand testing before buying a beauty product. In response, retailers and brands are installing in-store trial stations to help overcome consumers' distrusting and seeing-is-believing attitude. This strategy has helped beauty retailers Ulta and Sephora increase their 2015 sales by 41 percent and 32 percent, respectively, compared with sales in 2014. Beth Shapouri , "The Way We Buy Beauty Now", Racked, May 26, 2016, © Vox Media, Inc.

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

Walmart Announces Plan To Hire 1,500 In-Store Staff In Costa Rica May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walmart said it plans to hire 1,500 people directly for in-store sales and customer service positions in Costa Rica. Walmart, which includes Walmart, Masxmenos, Maxi Pali, and Pali chain of supermarkets, said it plans to go against the usual industry practice of outsourcing such jobs in order to service points of sale. According to the company, those interested may apply via the retailer's website or at any of its 185 store locations across the country. "Walmart Costa Rica Looking To Hire 1,500 For Instore Changes", Q Costa Rica, May 25, 2016, © European Supermarket Magazine

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Lidl Seeks To Gain Bigger Share Of Belgium's Retail Market; Plans To Invest €500 Million May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST German discount retail chain Lidl plans to invest €500 million in Belgium to help increase its market share from the current 8.5 percent to 10 percent. According to the L’Echo newspaper, Lidl will focus its investments on the country’s capital, Brussels, where it plans to open 35 new retail locations in the next 5–7 years. Also, Lidl plans to add 2,000 more jobs to its existing 6,500-strong workforce in the country. "Lidl to invest €500 million in Belgium during few years", The Brussels Times, May 25, 2016, © The Brussels Times

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Marketing Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Belgium

Sephora Introduces Online Tool For Curly-Haired Women Shopping For Hair Care And Styling Products May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Beauty retailer Sephora introduced Shop Curly Hair Products, a feature on its website designed to help women and girls with curly hair to shop for the right haircare products. According to Sephora, there are four types of curly hair: Wavy, Curly, Coily, and Tightly Coiled. Also, the website features video tutorials on how to style and care for specific types of curly hair. Renee Jacques, "Sephora Just Launched This Awesome Feature for Curly-Haired Girls", Allure, May 25, 2016, © Condé Nast

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Sephora Launches Campaign Leveraging Mobile Messaging Platform Kik May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Beauty retailer Sephora launched a marketing campaign on mobile messaging platform Kik. By encouraging Kik users to join a contest, Sephora is building its audience on the platform and gaining access to shopper insights. With participants being asked to answer three questions, Sephora can design future services based on consumer preferences. Brielle Jaekel, "Sephora cultivates insight and Kik followers in interactive quiz", Luxury Daily , May 25, 2016, © Napean LLC

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Aldi’s Cage-Free Egg Decision Proves Controversial In Australia May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Despite criticism from egg producers in Australia, German retail grocery chain Aldi will spend the next ten years transitioning to cage-free eggs. Consumer pressure pushed the company to take the complicated, expensive and hopefully sustainable step. But egg producers ironically call the move a “slap in the face” to consumers who may not want to spend premium prices for cage-free eggs. Aldi’s decision will “hurt Australian egg farmers and can’t be justified on the basis of either science or consumer behavior.” One egg industry representative said Australian research shows that hen stress levels are similar across cage, barn and free range farming environments. Animal husbandry practices “have the greatest influence on hen welfare.” "Aldi to phase out cage eggs", Food and Drinks Business (AU), May 25, 2016, © Yaffa

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Market News Operations Products & Pricing Trends Geographies Worldwide EMEA Asia-Pacific Europe Australia Germany

El Corte Ingles Agrees To Sell Sephora Products In Spain May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Spain-based retailer El Corte Ingles agreed to sell beauty chain Sephora's products starting end of 2016. As part of the agreement, Sephora products will be sold in all of El Corte Ingles supermarkets with a beauty department. Also, Sephora will remodel its older concessions in El Corte Ingles stores. "Sephora Strikes Deal With El Corte Inglés", European Supermarket Magazine, May 25, 2016, © European Supermarket Magazine

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Marketing Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe Spain

Food Stamps Help Walmart Fight Off Amazon May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Food stamps give Walmart a distinct advantage over online rival Amazon. Food-stamp users are not allowed to use the money to buy online. In 2015, almost 46 million people used food stamps, with almost all food-stamp funds spent offline. Also, in 2015, about $70 billion spent on groceries and other goods using the U.S. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture revealed. Data from the government showed the Super Stores category, which includes Walmart, accounted for 47 percent of dollars spent with food stamps although they represent only 7 percent of total number of stores accepting SNAP payments. In 2013, Walmart estimated it accounted for 18 percent, or about $14 billion and about 4 percent of the retailer's total US revenue, of all food-stamp spending in 2012. Shelly Banjo, "Walmart's Fleeting Advantage Over Amazon", Bloomberg Gadfly, May 25, 2016, © Bloomberg L. P.

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

Carrefour Partners With LiveRamp To Create Targeted Online Campaigns In France May 25, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Carrefour partnered with LiveRamp to bring its offline customer loyalty data to create targeted and brand-specific marketing campaigns in France. With 85 percent of total transactions in the local market coming through customers using their loyalty cards, reaching loyalty card members can greatly help any campaign. For example, using the loyalty data processed by LiveRamp for online targeting, Carrefour launched a campaign with targeted advertisements on Facebook for a popular rum brand for customers who had bought liquor at its stores. Kate Kaye, "Carrefour France Deploys its Shopper Loyalty Data to Target Cuba Libre Ads Online", Advertising Age, May 25, 2016, © Crain Communications

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Marketing Online Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe France

Online Retailers Need To Ensure Customers Have The Best Post-Purchase Experience May 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Online retailers need to focus on the post-purchase experience in order to retain customers. For example, beauty retailer Sephora's success is driven by its sustained efforts to connect a shopper's experience throughout the whole customer process across digital, mobile, and brick-and-mortar stores channels. Also, Sephora provides customers with branded delivery tracking page and updates on product recommendations, deals, and editorial content. There are four ways retailers can provide customers with the best post-purchase experience: continuing the conversation; providing shoppers with relevant, personalized information; turning a bad customer experience into an amazing experience; and creating an organizational environment that helps enhance a post-purchase experience. Amit Sharma , "Online Retailers Should Care More About the Post-Purchase Experience", Harvard Business Review, May 24, 2016, © Harvard Business School Publishing

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

Aldi And Lidl Beat Walmart's Asda In Low-Price Game; Price War Expected To Come To US May 24, 2016: 12:00 AM EST German discount retailers Aldi and Lidl have been grabbing sales and market share from Asda, Walmart's business unit in the UK. While Asda recently reported its seventh consecutive quarter of falling sales, Aldi plans to expand its store count in the US from the current 1,500 to 2,000 in the next two years, while Lidl is preparing to launch its US operations. Alda was able to react early to Aldi and Lidl by cutting prices; however, its prices were not low enough. Walmart should learn from Aldi's experience in order to prepare for the coming fight with Aldi and Lidl in the US market. Shelly Banjo & Andrea Felsted, "Walmart Faces a German Invasion", Bloomberg, May 24, 2016, © Bloomberg LP

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Half Of Men Shopping For Grooming Products Do Research Before Making Purchases, Survey Says May 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Among men shopping for grooming products, 50 percent said they research for information, including consumer reviews online, before buying, according to WSL Strategic Retail, New York. Results of the How America Shops Switch-Swap-Trade 2016 report revealed those 50 percent who access information before buying do not change their mind about which to buy once they are in the store. Also, 34 percent of respondents said they are loyal to one brand when shopping for men’s grooming products, an increase of 2 percent from the 2014 report. Brand loyalty could be driven by price; however, other characteristics, such as a particular fragrance, could keep consumers coming back. "Looking good", Supermarket News, May 23, 2016, © Penton

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

Ulta Beauty Posts Strong Sales And Revenue Gains In 1Q Of FY 2016 May 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Cosmetics retailer Ulta Beauty said total sales increased 23.7 percent to $1.073 billion in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, compared with the same quarter of the previous year. Comparable sales jumped 15.2 percent, driven by 11.0 percent growth in customer traffic and 4.2 percent in average price. Salon sales grew 14.7 percent to $58.9 million, compared with $51.3 million in the first quarter of FY 2015. E-commerce sales grew 38.8 percent to $61.0 million, accounting for 130 basis points of the total comparable sales increase of 15.2 percent during the period. "Ulta Beauty Announces First Quarter 2016 Results", Ulta Beauty, May 23, 2016, © ULTA Salon, Cosmetics &Fragrance, Inc

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UK Convenience Store Count Remains Steady May 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In the UK, the number of convenience stores remains more or less the same, according to IGD Retail Analysis and William Reed Business Media. Data from the companies revealed the rate of store openings in the multiple segment slowed from over 10 percent in 2015 to 5 percent in 2016. Also, the unaffiliated independent stores segment recorded some growth, compared with declines in recent years. Oil companies have sold more than 400 fuel retailing sites to independent dealers, driving the change in ownership structure in the forecourt stores segment. "Convenience Store Numbers Stay Steady", IGD Retail Analysis, May 23, 2016, © The Institute of Grocery Distribution and IGD Services Limited

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Market News Geographies Worldwide EMEA Europe United Kingdom

Walmart Seeks Ways To Turn Around Japan Operations May 23, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walmart is working for a turnaround for its Seiyu retail brand in Japan. Seeking to disprove rumors that it plans to exit the market, Seiyu announced plans to renovate and redesign its stores in the country. Struggling to compete with local rivals, such as Aeon and Seven & I Holdings, the company said it plans to open new stores after closing almost 100 locations since 2014. According to Cormorant Group partner and strategist Barry Lustig, Walmart's problems in Japan are partly due to its over expansion. Also, a weak yen and an increase in national sales tax have also hurt the retailer's revenue performance. BBDO Japan managing director Hal Ito said, Walmart's “low price” strategy alone will not ensure success in the local market. Walmart should keep in mind that Japanese consumers are looking for added value and for certifications by authority for premium quality or safety. "Walmart aims for Japan turnaround", Campaign Asia, May 23, 2016, © Haymarket Media Ltd.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Market News Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific Japan

Global Economy Forecast To Grow Slower In 2016 And 2017, Euromonitor International Says May 22, 2016: 12:00 AM EST World GDP growth is forecast lower at 3.0 percent for 2016 and 3.2 percent for 2017, according to Euromonitor International. Data from the market research firm's Global Economic Forecasts: Q2 2016 revealed global stock markets have recovered from the sharp declines that took place in early 2016; however, financial stability has decreased, with risk-aversion rising. As a consequence, consumer and business confidence indicators are dropping across developed markets, which is likely to adversely affecct consumption and investment decisions. Emerging markets are finding it harder to grow and are experiencing significant declines in capital inflows, with some even seeing capital outflows. "Global Economic Forecasts: Executive Summary", Euromonitor International, May 22, 2016, © Euromonitor

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Walmart Sells 10 Shopping Malls In Chile To Insurance Companies May 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walmart Chile has agreed to sell 10 Espacio Urbano shopping malls to local insurance companies Compania de Seguros Confuturo and Compania de Seguros CorpSeguros. Valued at 441.9 billion pesos, or $639.2 million, the deal covers 250,000 square meters of mall space, accommodating 70 million consumer visits each year. According to Walmart Chile, its Lider and Express de Lider supermarket chains will stay on as tenants in the shopping malls. Gram Slattery, "Walmart Chile to sell 10 malls for $639 million", Reuters, May 19, 2016, © Reuters

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Operations Strategy Geographies Worldwide Latin America Chile

Amazon Eyes To Grab Share Of Baby Care And Laundry Detergent Markets From Procter & Gamble May 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Online retailer Amazon plans to expand its private-label lineup by offering diapers and laundry detergent under its Mama Bear brand. Amazon's planned move will see it compete with Procter & Gamble, owner of some of the bestselling brands in those categories. While P&G trails rivals Kimberly-Clark and Unilever in organic sales performance, its laundry care lines, including Tide, and baby care products, driven by the Pampers brand, have been performing strongly in the US. Although Amazon could heavily promote its Mama Bear brand, it is likely to find it hard to compete with P&G in terms of product innovation and marketing. Demitrios Kalogeropoulos, "Amazon.com Inc. Wants a Piece of Procter & Gamble Co.'s Best Market", The Motley Fool, May 19, 2016, © The Motley Fool

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Brands Marketing Online Private Label Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

NRDC Urges The Colonel To Stop Using Antibiotics In Chicken Production May 19, 2016: 12:00 AM EST The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is urging KFC to stop using antibiotics in its chicken production. Seventy percent of the antibiotics used to treat human bacterial illnesses are given to mostly healthy pigs, chickens, cattle, and other livestock. That practice “promotes the growth of drug-resistant superbugs,” posing a serious threat to public health. Other big fast food chains – McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Subway and Taco Bell – are committed to eliminating antibiotics from poultry production. But KFC, with more chicken-based restaurants than any other chain and sales second only to Chick-fil-A, “has yet to get on board.” Rhea Suh, "It’s Time for KFC to Kick Its Drug Habit", News release, Natural Resources Defense Council, May 19, 2016, © Natural Resources Defense Council

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Whole Foods Market Readies Opening Of First 365 Affordable-Organic Store In Los Angeles May 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Whole Foods Market Inc. plans to open its first 365 by Whole Foods Market , as part of the retailer's efforts to demonstrate that it can offer a cheaper option for consumers seeking healthy and sustainably produced foods. Aimed at helping revive sales, the affordable-but-healthy retail concept is designed to help Whole Foods compete in an organic food market that has gone mass-market. According to the company, the first 365 store will open in the Silver Lake section of Los Angeles on May 25, 2016. Craig Giammona, "Whole Foods Is Ready to Convince You That It Can Do Cheaper", Bloomberg, May 18, 2016, © Bloomberg L.P.

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Marketing Operations Products & Pricing Strategy Geographies Worldwide North America United States of America

Target Posts Weaker Sales In 1Q 2016 May 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Target Corporation reported sales decreased 5.4 percent to $16.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016, compared with $17.1 billion in the same quarter in 2015. Comparable sales grew 1.2 percent, with adjusted earnings per share from continuing operations at $1.29, an increase of 16.5 percent from $1.10 in 2015. Segment earnings before interest expense and income taxes were $1.323 billion, up 4.9 percent from $1.261 billion in 2015. EBITDA and EBIT margin rates for the quarter were 11.5 percent and 8.2 percent, respectively, compared with 10.5 percent and 7.4 percent in 2015. "Target Reports First Quarter 2016 Earnings", Target, May 18, 2016, © Target Brands, Inc.

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Affluent Middle-Class Consumers In China Think Loyalty Programs Make Them Spend More May 18, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In China, 72 percent of affluent middle-class consumers view themselves as engaged members of loyalty programs, according to a report by Collinson Group. Results of the study conducted in January 2016 by SSI Research revealed 89 percent of mainland Chinese and 87 percent of Hong Kong residents said a loyalty program makes them want to spend more. Only 45 percent of Hong Kong respondents, however, said they feel engaged in loyalty programs. Worldwide membership to loyalty programs dropped 20 percent from 2014 to 2015, data revealed. Jessica Rapp, "Study: 89% of Chinese Consumers Say Loyalty Programs Increase Their Spending", JINGDAILY, May 18, 2016, © JINGDAILY

Domains RETAIL BUSINESS Consumers Market News Geographies Worldwide Asia-Pacific China

Amazon Beauty GM Reveals Secret To Amazon.com's Growth As Online Beauty Retailer May 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Online retail preserves the brand equity, it applies to beauty products, and the beauty customer is online and buying beauty products online, according to Amazon Beauty general manager Muge Erdirik Dogan. Dogan said customer behavior is significantly changing, with 75 percent of consumers starting their shopping process online. Amazon’s beauty business is growing strongly, due to independent beauty brands, rich content, and an automatic replenishment option. Also, helping grow niche brands, which have little to no distribution outside of the online retailer, has been part of Amazon Beauty’s expansion strategy, Dogan said. Rachel Strugatz, "Muge Erdirik Dogan Charts Amazon’s Customer Journey", Women’s Wear Daily, May 17, 2016, © Fairchild Fashion Media

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Target Appoints Mark Tritton As EVP And Chief Merchandising Officer May 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Target Corporation announced the appointment of Mark Tritton as executive vice president and chief merchandising officer. Tritton’s responsibilities will include overseeing enterprise buying, product design and development, sourcing, visual merchandising strategy, and merchandising transformation and operations. Target also named Jason Goldberger as chief digital officer and president of Target.com. Tritton and Goldberger will become members of the company’s leadership team and will report to Target chairman and CEO Brian Cornell effective June 5, 2016. "Target Names Mark Tritton Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer", Target, May 17, 2016, © Target Brands, Inc.

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Walgreens Seeks To Expand Beauty Business By Emphasizing Drugstore Heritage May 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Walgreens plans to launch its improved beauty business at 2,000 of its retail locations across the US. According to Walgreens group VP for beauty and personal care Lauren Brindley, the company will leverage its pharmacy heritage to position its more than 26,000 beauty advisers as credible source for nonbiased beauty advice. Also, the company wants to expand the range of beauty products its stores are selling, based from Walgreens Boots Alliance’s experience in the UK. Faye Brookman, "Walgreens on Journey to Transform the Drugstore Beauty Experience", Women’s Wear Daily, May 17, 2016, © Fairchild Fashion Media

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Wal-Mart Gets Set To Expand, Boost Beauty Business May 17, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart plans to expand its beauty department, according to VP of merchandising for beauty Jody Pinson. According to the retailer, Wal-Mart sells 1.6 mascaras every second, or 49 million mascaras a year, and offers 1,750 types of lip product. Wal-Mart is installing new fixtures, improved lighting, and innovative products; and offering new services, such as Pick Up Today, to strengthen its beauty department. Pinson said, in order to expand its beauty business, Wal-Mart will focus on new products. Also, Pinson said the growing Hispanic population presents growth opportunities for Wal-Mart's beauty segment. Faye Brookman , "Wal-Mart Seeks to Build Credibility in Beauty", Women's Wear Daily, May 17, 2016, © Fairchild Fashion Media

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Aldi Australia Increases Advertising Spend While Bigger Rivals Are Cutting Back May 16, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Discount retailer Aldi increased its advertising spend to $34.7 million for the 12-month period ending April 2016, compared with $28.9 million in the 2015 calendar year. According to data from the Nielsen AQX report, $30 million of Aldi’s total advertising spend went to television, while digital received $1.37 million. Woolworths spent $74 million on advertising during the period, down from $87.9 million the market leader spent in 2015. Supermarket chain Coles spent $48 million, compared with $53 million in the previous year. Madeleine Heffernan, "Aldi increases ads spend as Woolies, Coles scale back", Sydney Morning Herald, May 16, 2016, © Fairfax Media

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Amazon Finds It Harder To Dominate Online Beauty Retail Market In France May 16, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In France, only 16 percent of prestige beauty brands sell their products on Amazon, compared with 56 percent on beauty retailer Sephora, according to market research firm L2. Data from L2's Beauty France Index revealed beauty brands, such as Marionnaud and Nocibe, have created their own digital ecosystems that combine creative content with e-commerce and use their offline store locations to offer shipping and delivery methods. Also, French brands have been able to resist the gray market, more so than their German and UK counterparts were able to. Homa Zaryouni, "Does Amazon Dominate Beauty in France?", L2 Daily, May 16, 2016, © L2 Inc.

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Whole Foods Market Launches 365 Store Concept To Battle Low-Cost Rivals May 16, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Whole Foods Market plans to open its first 365 store location in Los Angeles. According to 365 head Jeff Turnas, the store concept was created to provide consumers with healthy produce and natural products at more affordable prices than those offered by parent company Whole Foods Market. Turnas and his team created store formats that can be easily replicated across the US. Compared with Whole Foods, which emphasizes variety, 365 is designed to offer the most essential and affordable products. With 365, Whole Foods aims to better compete with other retailers that also offer natural and organic food products at lower prices. Sarah Kessler, "The Whole Foods Playbook For Reaching New Markets", Fast Company, May 16, 2016, © Mansueto Ventures, LLC

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Retailers Need To Adopt Omni-Presence To Succeed In India May 15, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retailers in India need to do business on all retail channels and formats to succeed in the local market. Expanding worldwide, omni-presence as a retail concept is for retailers seeking to reach as many consumers as possible. In India, majority of local retailers were selling offline, online, and on mobile platforms in 2014–2015. During the past 5–7 years, local consumers have steadily moved from offline to online shopping. Successful retailers in the country already have a presence in more than one platform. Trendsutra Platform Services Pvt Ltd.’s Pepperfry.com launched its first offline store in Mumbai in December 2014, followed by another store in Bangalore in 2015. Shabori Das, "Omni-Presence: A Key Strategy for Retailers to Succeed in India", Euromonitor International, May 15, 2016, © Euromonitor

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Amazon Plans To Sell More Private-Label Products May 15, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Online retailer Amazon.com Inc. plans to sell more private-label brands, including those of perishable foods, such as nuts, spices, tea, and coffee. After working for several years to develop private-label lines, the online retailer will start selling them as early as end of May or start of June 2016. Sales of store brands in the US reached $118.4 billion in 2015, up by about $2.2 billion from the previous year, data from the Private Label Manufacturers Association revealed. Greg Bensinger, "Amazon to Expand Private-Label Offerings—From Food to Diapers", The Wall Street Journal, May 15, 2016, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc.

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Fast And Free Delivery Drives Future Of Retail Market May 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Retailers need to acknowledge that customers, with the mentality described by consumer psychologist Kit Yarrow as “I Want What I Want When I Want It,” expect products they buy online to arrive at their door and at the same price as if they were bought in-store. Walmart launched ShippingPass, a two-day free shipping delivery with $49 annual membership fee, in order to compete with online retailer Amazon.com's Amazon Prime service. Consumer loyalty to Amazon, however, is driven by consumers' tendency to buy from a venue that offers the widest range of products that will arrive at their door at the lowest price in the shortest time. Kathleen Kusek, "The Future of Retail is Fast, Free Delivery", Forbes, May 14, 2016, © Forbes Media LLC

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Singapore One Of World's Leaders In Mobile Wallet Adoption, Survey Says May 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST In Singapore, 58 percent of consumers say they prefer paying for their in-store purchases with mobile wallets, such as Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Android Pay, according to Visa's 2015 Consumer Payment Attitudes Survey. Reasons cited by respondents for their preference for mobile payment systems include faster transactions for 71 percent; ease of use, 55 percent; and no need to have cash on hand, 47 percent. Also, the growing popularity of mobile payment systems is being driven by the country's high smartphone penetration rates. Shubhi Tandon, "Singaporeans prefer to use mobile wallets to pay: Study", Digital Market Asia, May 14, 2016, © Digital Market Asia

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Offline Stores Remain Most Popular Retail Channel In India In 2015; Online Retail Grows Fastest May 14, 2016: 12:00 AM EST Offline stores accounted for more than 97 percent of total sales value in India in 2015, according to Euromonitor. Data from the market research firm revealed mobile e-commerce was the fastest-growing segment of the retail market. Also, the country saw the emergence of online grocery retailers in 2015. Technology has caused a paradigm shift in Indian consumers’ approach to shopping, with use of mobile devices becoming an integral part of the buying process. Shabori Das, "Retailing in India: Store or Non-Store, No Longer the Question", Euromonitor International, May 14, 2016, © Euromonitor

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Carrefour Joins City Of Paris To Launch Employment Program For Young People May 13, 2016: 12:00 AM EST French retailer Carrefour partnered with the city of Paris to launch the Business and Neighborhoods Charter, a campaign to provide employment to young people from areas with high levels of delinquency. Part of Carrefour’s efforts to help young people gain access to employment, the program also covers other priority neighborhoods in Paris. Terms of the agreement call on Carrefour to commit to the second chance pact; employment, integration, and professional training; and education, academic orientation, and social mediation at schools. "Carrefour joins forces with the City of Paris to help young people get on the job market", Carrefour, May 13, 2016, © Carrefour

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