Store Strategist

Dozens of retailers jacked up interest rates on store cards ahead of Fed cuts Dozens of retailers, including Macy's, Gap and TJ Maxx, increased APRs on their store credit cards before the Federal Reserve cut rates, padding their profits.

50+ retailers have increased the APR on their store cards to record highs (Up to 35.99%). Timing indicates a strategy to safeguard profits ahead of potential Fed rate cuts, rather than a focus on managing risk. In 2022, Macy's credit card operations accounted for 49% of its operating earnings.

Walmart slashes US delivery costs by 40% per order Increased automation and more efficient driver routes helped the retail giant accomplish the feat for the third consecutive quarter.

Walmart has reduced delivery expenses by 40% thanks to automation and optimized routing. Sales from deliveries fulfilled by stores have increased by 50% year-over-year, now reaching $2.5 billion each month. For 30% of orders, customers have opted to pay for faster delivery. This is truly remarkable.

Blue Yonder software was hit by ransomware, affecting retailers like Starbucks, and Sainsbury's. It has disrupted employee scheduling, payroll, and inventory management. Companies are using backup systems while the restoration timeline remains unclear.

Will Smart Shopping Carts Improve the Wegmans Shopping Experience? - RetailWire Wegmans is testing smart shopping carts at three stores in upstate New York. Are American consumers ready to use smart carts to do their grocery shopping in big numbers?

Wegmans is the latest retailer to test smart shopping carts that scan, weigh, and track spending to enhance customer convenience and reduce theft. Challenges include high costs, storage needs, and privacy concerns. The technology aims to streamline shopping but faces adoption hurdles. #retail

Here's why Dollar Tree and Dollar General stocks have plummeted Dollar stores are dealing with a mix of both economic and self-inflicted problems.

Dollar stores face challenges from inflation, weaker demand for discretionary items, and limited e-com capabilities. Lower-income shoppers are focusing on essentials, while middle-income consumers stick with online or big-box retailers like Walmart. #Retail #DollarStore #Walmart

Retail industry praises GST holiday but says it may be 'laborious' for some A temporary pause on charging the federal sales tax on many items has retailers excited, even though they say preparing for the relief will mean a lot of extra work in a short period of time.

Canada’s proposed temporary GST holiday is praised for boosting consumer spending but raises concerns about logistical burdens, especially for small businesses. Issues include the complexity of recalibrating systems to remove GST and potential confusion among consumers and retailers. #Retail #Canada

T.J. Maxx is in prime position to benefit from Trump's trade policies The president-elect's proposed tariffs might lead to retailers ordering inventory earlier, adding extra goods to the market for T.J. Maxx.

T.J. Maxx stands to benefit from proposed tariffs by Trump, as retailers may offload inventory early to avoid higher costs. With diverse sourcing and minimal reliance on Chinese imports, it may keep prices competitive, attracting budget-conscious consumers https://www.businessinsider.com/tj-maxx-be…

Google Shopping’s getting a big transformation Google Shopping uses AI to help you find more relevant products, discover personalized options and find the lowest prices.

Google’s AI-driven overhaul of its Shopping platform enhances personalization & efficiency, aiming to transform the shopping experience and boost retailer engagement. Improved price comparison tools could attract cost-conscious consumers #RetailAI #Google