Study: Retailers must mobilize the brand advocate

March 11, 2016

A retailer's best friend these days may just be the consumer who is loyal and willing to spread good things about the brand.

Talking With: Needle President Scott Pulsipher on mobilizing brand advocates

by Judy Mottl — Editor, RetailCustomerExperience.com & DigitalSignageToday.com

One of a brand's best marketing asset is the loyal fan. That's why it's critical to mobilize such advocates to drive revenue, build the consumer base and boost…

Pistachio recall includes Trader Joe's brand

March 10, 2016

Trader Joe's is one of three brands that sold pistachios linked to a Salmonella strain that hit 11 consumers across nine states between December and February.

Report: Consumers not very forgiving when a shopping experience goes bad

March 10, 2016

Consumers are not paying attention to traditional advertising and aren't very forgiving if a retail experience goes bad.

Dorsey wants Square to be synonymous with mobile payments

by Will Hernandez — Editor, NetWorld Media Group

Jack Dorsey wants Square to be synonymous with mobile payments and believes the current EMV shift in the U.S. will help the seven-year old company accomplish…

Sprint embarking on nationwide sprint to open new stores

March 10, 2016

The telecom player, striving to move ahead in the ultra-competitive market, is working with a partner to expand store locations.

Amazon expands free pick-up service with Georgia location

March 10, 2016

Online commerce retailer Amazon is opening a free same-day pick-up service in Georgia through a partnership with the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Starbucks loyalty change brews anger, filters out value of experience

by Bryan Pearson — President, LoyaltyOne

The shift in how members of My Starbucks Rewards earn stars may be a test of its customer loyalty, but with the program's expanding mobile payment and other…

Micro markets vs traditional vending machines

by Kisha Wilson — Marketing Manager, SlabbKiosks

In many offices, micro markets are starting to pop up. They are essentially 'convenience stores at the office', that provide freshly prepared lunches, healthy…

Amazon opening physical storefront in San Diego come summer

March 8, 2016

Amazon getting second brick-and-mortar location ready to open this summer.

As CVS converts Target pharmacies, data is key to health

by Bryan Pearson — President, LoyaltyOne

As CVS/pharmacy enters the thick of converting 1,700 Target pharmacies and clinics to its own brand, it has made it evident its reward program, ExtraCare, will…

Talking With: Humm CEO Bernard Briggs on building the customer relationship

by Judy Mottl — Editor, RetailCustomerExperience.com & DigitalSignageToday.com

The customer relationship requires knowing the customer, determining their needs and what they expect.

Warmer weather doesn't put a chill on Lowe's revenue

March 4, 2016

Warmer winter temps prove lucrative for at least one retailer.

Perry Ellis taps Oracle tools for new payment options, security and better customer interaction

March 4, 2016

Fashion icon Perry Ellis is using a new retail point of service and inventory management tools to provide secure payment transaction and improved customer…

Target's strategy is all about creating a hassle-free customer experience

From all indications 2016 is going to be a busy year for Target and the prime focus will be on the consumer.

Talking With: Euclid Analytics CEO Brent Franson on Amazon’s brick-and-mortar strategy

by Judy Mottl — Editor, RetailCustomerExperience.com & DigitalSignageToday.com

Focusing on the omnichannel consumer is a must for retailers, whether they're pure-play ecommerce and looking to move into physical storefronts or vice versa.

Sports Authority closing stores, laying off workers in bankruptcy action

March 3, 2016

In a quest to reduce $1.1 billion of debt Sports Authority is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is prepping to close 140 stores and two distribution centers.

Teenage love for Hollister brand drove sales for Abercrombie & Fitch

March 2, 2016

A revamp effort that included everything from new store merchandise to clothing presentation and lighting drove better in-store sales.

Amazon debuting pickup spot at Texas university campus

March 2, 2016

Amazon expands campus pickup strategy with first Texas site. Several more nationwide in the works for this year.

5 questions CMOs must ask when "they don't show up"

by Chris Petersen — Owner, IMS

Marketers need to engage like they are throwing a party for friends.