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Inflation and economic uncertainty have put pressure on retailers to find creative ways to protect margins while staying competitive. Dynamic pricing – a strategy that adjusts prices based on demand, competition and other market factors in real time – is becoming an increasingly popular solution. Retailers use it to stay agile, ensuring their prices remain competitive while optimizing revenue and profitability.
In todays competitive retail landscape, customer insights play a crucial role in shaping business strategies and enhancing the overall shopping experience. But what are the most effective ways to capture these insights and communicate them to the head office? Inside Retail spoke with Officeworks’ general manager of customer and online Jessica Richmond about how the big-box retailer integrates customer feedback into decision-making.
When retailers discover that a particular product isnt selling as well as it normally does, there are many potential explanations. Is there a new, similar product on a nearby shelf thats priced for less, or one thats being heavily promoted by the manufacturer? If its a new product, has it been placed in the correct aisle? Is it placed near enough to eye level for shoppers to easily find it?
Let’s start with a question: how many vendors do you rely on to run your business smoothly? One? Ten? Maybe even hundreds? Whether it’s your suppliers, logistics providers, or third-party services, every vendor plays a crucial role in your success. You depend on them to supply products, manage deliveries, and enhance customer experiences.
Speaker: Matt Sunshine, CEO at The Center for Sales Strategy
AI isn’t replacing salespeople—it’s empowering them. The most forward-thinking sales organizations are using AI to enhance human performance rather than eliminate it. From coaching and messaging to prospecting and pipeline accountability, artificial intelligence is giving managers and SDRs the new tools they need to work smarter, sell better, and close more.
Shopping malls were once viewed as relics of the pastcasualties of the eCommerce boom and shifting consumer habits. But, against the odds, malls are thriving again. What was once considered outdated is making a strong comeback in communities across the country. For product manufacturers, this revival is not just a phenomenon worth watching; it’s an opportunity to capitalize on an emerging retail trend.
Through its Lowes Foundation , Lowes has made nearly $9 million in Gable Grants to strengthen 15 nonprofits that are helping to prepare new tradespeople for the construction, carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, electrical and appliance repair fields. The Foundation has awarded over $34 million since its founding in 2023. The next application period, for community and technical colleges, runs through March 31, 2025.
Once a favourite brand among millennials, Forever 21 has fallen a long way down the list of in-demand brands in recent years. At its height, Forever 21 operated more than 500 locations in the US and at least 800 worldwide. However, after several years of diminishing sales in an increasingly competitive fast-fashion market, rumors have been spreading about Forever 21 declaring Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time.
Once a favourite brand among millennials, Forever 21 has fallen a long way down the list of in-demand brands in recent years. At its height, Forever 21 operated more than 500 locations in the US and at least 800 worldwide. However, after several years of diminishing sales in an increasingly competitive fast-fashion market, rumors have been spreading about Forever 21 declaring Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time.
Ulta Beauty is activating its fandom by hosting a one-day-only immersive event experience in San Antonio. Aptly named Ulta Beauty World , the event is touted as an all-access pass to discover the best in makeup, skincare, hair care and wellness. Tickets for Ulta Beauty World are now available online for $160. Fans and beauty pros will gather at the Henry B.
Asda’s flagging fortunes have carried further into the new year, with sales at the supermarket falling 5% in the 12 weeks to 23 February. Kantar reported that the market share for the UK’s third largest grocer now sits at 12.6%, down 1.1% from the 13.7% it held last year. Asda’s weak performance contrasts discounter rivals Aldi and Lidl, both of which gained ground during the period in both sales and market share terms.
Starbucks has named Cathy Smith as its new CFO, replacing the departing Rachel Ruggeri in the latest leadership change at the coffee retailer since September 2024 , when Brian Niccol joined the company as CEO. The previous CEO, Laxman Narasimhan, stepped down in August 2024 after less than two years on the job. Tressie Lieberman, who had worked with Niccol at his former company, Chipotle , joined Starbucks as Global Chief Marketing Officer in October 2024 , and in January 2025 , Mike Grams and M
Addington, the asset manager for Charter Walk Shopping Centre in Burnley announces that JD Sports, the FTSE 100-listed sports fashion retailer, is expanding its presence in Burnley with a significant store relocation and expansion in the shopping centre. JD Sports is signing a 10-year lease for a larger, more prominent unit and will relocate from its current store at 50 The Mall to 30-34 The Mall & 6-10 Fleet Walk, increasing its ground floor trading space from 3,973 sq ft to 5,817 sq ft.
The rapid rise of AI-powered displays, touchless technology, and sensory marketing is reshaping the future of in-store engagement. Yet for many retail executives, the real challenge is not identifying new tools - it is knowing which signals to trust, which inputs to prioritize, and how to architect decisions that elevate in-store leadership rather than dilute it.
Brett Blundys BBRC is launching a new global lingerie, sleepwear and beauty brand named Lays. In its LinkedIn profile, the brand says it aims to redefine lingerie, sleepwear and beauty for the modern woman. Were assembling a world-class team to bring our vision to life. From design and product innovation to a best-in-class retail experience, were creating something thats both inspiring and transformative, it adds.
B&Q is increasing its minimum hourly pay for store staff to 12.71 and up to 14.05 for those in London, effective 1 April. The move sees over 15,000 colleagues receive an extra 50p per hour worth over 955.50 more a year for a full-time employee. The DIY retailer claimed the new rates are among the highest of all major UK retailers and said that its minimum rate is well ahead of the UK Government’s 2025 National Living Wage (12.21 per hour), and 11p per hour above the Real Living Wage (
Japanese fashion brand Onitsuka Tiger has opened its first flagship store in Spain, unveiling a space that merges contemporary design with the brands heritage. Located on Barcelonas prestigious Passeig de Grcia, the two-story store officially opened its doors on Monday, March 3, 2025. A Fusion of Tokyo and Barcelona Designed by STUDIODINICATALDI , the store blends Tokyo-inspired modernity with the elegance of its historic Passeig de Grcia location.
For the first time ever, Primark is officially launching a Pinterest-inspired new spring home collection. As new research reveals a lack of money (51 percent) and a lack of inspiration (22 percent) are some of the biggest challenges when it comes to redecorating, Pinterest and Primark are partnering to make it easier than ever to design and transform your space with stylish, budget-friendly pieces. [1] The new collection, launching in Primark stores and available to purchase via Pinterest using
When culture isn’t consistently lived out across the organization, engagement suffers—and it often starts with a disconnect at the top. In this session, Beth Sunshine, SVP of Up Your Culture at The Center for Sales Strategy, will reveal how HR and executive leaders can close the gap between vision and execution by equipping frontline and mid-level managers to become culture carriers.
Dr. Martens has selected the Amperity customer data cloud solution to support its global data and marketing operations strategy. The UK footwear brand is seeking the ability to recognize and engage customers consistently across all channels, using the platforms AI-powered identity resolution and insights to scale data maturity while ensuring privacy compliance.
Asda managers only found out about the supermarkets decision to scrap their annual bonuses when the news broke in the media, sources have told Retail Gazette. The supermarket giant has reportedly scrapped its bonus scheme for more than 10,000 managers due to underperformance, with the news first emerging in The Telegraph earlier this week. However, multiple store managers said they were not informed before the public announcement, with one manager describing the move as a kick in the teeth.
Primark has partnered with Pinterest for the first time to create a homeware collection inspired by the latest trending searches on the platform. The range, which launches in Primark stores this month and is available through Pinterests Click & Collect feature, aims to make stylish interior updates more accessible. According to new research, financial constraints (51%) and a lack of inspiration (22%) are among the biggest challenges for those looking to redecorate.
WHSmith’s presence on the high street could soon disappear as the group mulls respective offers to acquire its 500+ stores business. The retailer received its first round of bids last week after it placed the division up for sale last month to focus on its booming travel arm , which represents 85% of its total profits. It is understood that theretailer’s brand is unlikely to be included in any deal , meaning a takeover could mark the end of WHSmith’s 230 years of high street hi
Retailers know the clock is ticking–legacy SAP Commerce support ends in 2026. Legacy platforms are becoming a liability burdened by complexity, rigidity, and mounting operational costs. But modernization isn’t just about swapping out systems, it’s about preparing for a future shaped by real-time interactions, AI powered buying assistants, and flexible commerce architecture.
IKEA Warrington has upgraded its restaurant with a capacity of 550 diners seating nearly a hundred more fans of the retailers much-loved menu Faithful to its Scandinavian heritage, the revamped restaurant offers shoppers a relaxed Swedish dining experience New additions include tables designed for solo-working, casual seating and family-friendly spaces for children As it reopens, over 50,000 meatballs are expected to be sold each week IKEA Warrington has opened the doors to its revamped restaur
HMV has seen its album and vinyl sales jump following the BRIT Awards at the weekend. The retailer reported sales for Ezra Collectives catalogue skyrocketed 1333% in store and online after the British Jazz Quintet performed with Jorja Smith. Rachel Chinouriri, nominated for Best New Artist and Artist of the Year, experienced a 450% surge in sales week-on-week, while Rising Star winner Myles Smith saw demand for his A Minute…EP triple (308%).
The owners of Amart Furniture and Freedom Furniture have retained financial advisers to initiate the sales process of the two chains. According to the Australian Financial Review , Quadrant Private Equity has hired Macquarie Capital to oversee the sale of Amart Furniture. Founded in 1970, Amart is known for its affordable furniture and has 68 stores nationwide.
Lilysilk , a sustainable specialty brand of silk products, has opened its first concept store in New York City. Located in the heart of the Meatpacking District, the Hudson Street location features a clean lily white backdrop and lily green accents that combine to create an inviting yet elegant atmosphere. These subtle elements complement the neighborhoods upscale boutiques and cultural landmarks.
AI agents already analyze trends, draft content, and trigger actions across leading commerce platforms. Yet most organizations still rely on workflows built for human‑only teams, losing speed, margin, and customer loyalty. Humans + Agents: Rethinking Enterprise Commerce in the Age of AI Collaboration shows how to close that gap. In one concise read you’ll see where agent gains surface first, how early adopters prove ROI, and which lean controls keep innovation moving without risking data or bran
The commercial interiors industry has a brand-new platform to honour its finest achievements with the launch of the Creative Interiors Awards. Recognising outstanding projects, products, and the talented individuals who bring them to life, this prestigious event celebrates excellence in design, innovation, and craftsmanship across the sector. Organised by the team behind the highly acclaimed Creative Retail Awards along with the National Association of Shopfitters and Interior Contractors , the
Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! Amazon and TradeBridge today announced the launch of Term Financing for sellers, a new offer designed to support the continued growth of businesses selling on Amazon. This collaboration offers eligible sellers access to funds of up to 5 million based on their Amazon business revenue and performance.
KMD Brands has confirmed its new CEO and MD Brent Scrimshaw will assume the role on March 24, based in the Melbourne corporate office. Scrimshaw was appointed last October after the resignation of incumbent Michael Daly following more than 20 years with the company, but the timing of the changeover was unconfirmed at the time. In a stock exchange filing, KMD Brands said Daly would also discontinue as a company director on March 25 and work with Scrimshaw during a transitional period until April
Asda has completed a 2m transformation of its Pilsworth store in Bury, marking the supermarket’s largest single-store investment in several years. The 61,000 sq ft store has been given a fresh modern look with new feature lighting and updated signage, including materials promoting the return of Rollback. Asda said it had simplified the layout of the shop floor with a consolidated food hall to make it easier for customers to find what they need.
Category Management is a cornerstone of a successful retail strategy. While it promotes collaboration between manufacturers and retailers to optimize category performance, challenges persist in its effective implementation due to hurdles in communication and collaboration across teams and partners, and more. In this guide, we outline five essential strategies for success in 2025 that will touch on all the essential pieces of a successful strategy and implementation.
How would you like to know what made a customer angry or sad, leading them to leave a negative review? You might say, Ill just ask them, and thats a great answer. Direct feedback is a gift. But maybe theres another way. I had a sit-down with Michael Podolsky, the CEO of PissedConsumer.com , a sounding board for consumers to leave comments and reviews when they cant get the customer service they want or deserve.
Shop price inflation remained in deflation in February, but the cost of breakfast essentials climbed as food inflation accelerated, according to the latest BRC-NIQ Shop Price Index. Food inflation hit 2.1% year-on-year, up from 1.6% in January, marking its third-highest monthly increase in the past year. Fresh food inflation also rose to 1.5%, while ambient food inflation reached 2.8%.
Knowing where other CPG and retail services companies are putting their focus and their dollars is critical as you strategize for the year ahead. Repslys annual Retail Outlook Report is a great place to start. This year, we surveyed 170+ CPG and retail service professionals about their challenges and priorities going into 2025. Through our research, we learned what companies are doing to optimize their in-store presence, where theyre investing to get the most out of their field teams, and how th
Retail Times publishes international & UK retail news covering products, data, tech, packaging, people, research, comment and more besides! BEAR, the number one brand in Kids Fruit Snacking, is shaking up the category with innovative NPD and fresh new formats. The new launches will tap into the growing demand for bold, adventurous flavours among grown-up kids, while providing busy, health-conscious parents with nutritious, feel-good snack options to feed their cubs.
Late deliveries. Split shipments. Spiraling freight costs. For home, furniture, and DIY brands, fulfillment has never been more complex—or more critical. This report outlines how a smarter, AI-ready order management system (OMS) helps you reduce shipping costs, streamline project-based fulfillment, and ensure accurate inventory across every channel.
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