What troubles shoppers when searching online

Creating clear product landing pages that turn customer concerns into searchable content are key to help shoppers find what they’re looking for.

Walmart will use geospatial tech to power delivery

The data-science capability redefines the retailer’s delivery maps to expand the channel’s reach and accessibility.

Target CEO, Rev. Al Sharpton to meet following DEI changes

The civil rights activist said he is mulling a boycott of the mass merchant, which scaled back its diversity programs in January.

Maximizing retail profits: Make every SKU count

Retailers need to take back control of their shelves, write Michael Brown and Roy Kamar of Kearney. 

L’Oréal taps Google’s generative AI tools for content creation

While the company uses the technology to speed its creative process, L'Oréal said it would not create images of people for marketing campaigns. 

Ulta brings on Revolution Beauty CEO as chief merchandising and digital officer

Lauren Brindley, who will join in June as current chief merchant Monica Arnaudo retires, will also oversee the retailer’s upcoming marketplace.

Lids leans in to customization with refreshed store concept

The stores are focused on localization and include “Build-A-Cap” kiosks where shoppers can create unique designs that match their style. 

Rent the Runway rethinks customer service approach

Shifting to more proactive service, the team now spends 14% of its time calling customers to build loyalty, according to CEO Jennifer Hyman.

‘Our stores have become an orphan channel’: The Children’s Place

The company acknowledged that its stores have been neglected, but it is ready for a “spree” of openings and a new concept location.

Ulta Beauty aims for long-term growth after data, ERP upgrades

The company’s tech investments cleared the way for generative AI. Executives are working to reap the rewards.

The Weekly Closeout: JD Sports now ‘bigger than Foot Locker’ and is Rite Aid mulling another bankruptcy?

JD Sports said it has more market share in North America than its rival retailer, while the drugstore is reportedly contemplating refiling. 

Michaels ups balloons, party supplies as Party City, Joann disappear

With the pandemic-era crafting boom over, the chain is working to take advantage of market share opportunities.

Ikea expands small-format fleet with Dallas store

The 63,000-square-foot store, set to open later this year, will feature 3,200 products and marks the home goods retailer’s 11th store in Texas.

Trade war set to impact electronics, other discretionary products hardest

Small and medium-sized brands are poised to bear the negative brunt of increased tariffs on imports to the U.S., according to a new PitchBook report.

Lowe’s to acquire Artisan Design Group for $1.3B

The deal expands the retailer’s pro offerings and is expected to increase its total addressable market by around $50 billion. 

Moody’s downgrades retail’s outlook on ‘bleak’ prospects amid trade war

Apparel and footwear are especially vulnerable and off-price less so, though the impact of tariffs is industrywide, Moody’s Ratings analysts said Monday.

As TikTok Shop’s fate remains in balance, social commerce gains traction

The social media app with its popular e-commerce feature is in a state of suspense after a ban was once again delayed. Here’s a look at what this means for retail and how experts feel brands should respond.

Forever 21 creditors probe IP sale to Authentic Brands Group

The brand management firm quietly took full ownership of the retailer's trademarks and intellectual property licenses some time in the last five years.

As beauty continues to grow, TikTok Shop and Amazon will gain share

That comes at the expense of drugstores, department stores, mass merchandisers and even specialty beauty retailers, per TD Cowen.

Madison Reed lands in Sally Beauty

The direct-to-consumer hair color company continues to build out its roster of wholesale partners, which also include Walmart and Ulta Beauty.

Updated April 17, 2025

Trump excludes some electronics from reciprocal tariffs

Smartphones and electronic integrated circuits now qualify for the “semiconductor” exemption, but officials say sector-specific duties are coming.

Frank and Oak accelerates closure of US operations citing tariffs, customs uncertainty

The Canadian apparel brand is liquidating amid a restructuring process and plans to close its stores.

Nike is still winning the teen market

The athletics brand ranked top for apparel and footwear, while beauty spending reached its highest ever, according to Piper Sandler's latest report.

Harry Potter charms Chicago: Take a look inside the new store

The Magnificent Mile location has a “Goblet of Fire” theme and features the largest Butterbeer Bar in the U.S.

Consumer sentiment plummets, inflation expectations soar amid trade war

“There’s been a sharp decline in consumer sentiment, and business sentiment measures have weakened too,” New York Federal Reserve Bank President John Williams said.