E-Commerce Retail Briefing

IntroductionMost things look different these days. How employees work, how we visit the doctor, even how we grocery shop. There’s no doubt the pandemic has reshaped how we operate on a daily basis. Customer experience is no exception to those changes. So how do you handle customer experience when the ultimate unexpected happens? In this second installment of Customer Experience During a Pandemic, we’ll dive into personalization and customer data.First, here are the latest headlines.Nike Announces Digitally-Focused StoreNike just announced a new digitally-focused concept store–Nike Rise. The retailer opened its first location in China, with plans to open more in 2021, according to a press release. The latest concept quote “responds to the pulse of sport in a Member’s city,” end quote. Customers will experience a "Nike By You" personalization bar with this new concept and a new app feature called Nike Experiences, that will turn their city into a quote, “digitally-enabled interactive playground”, end quote.  With digital experiences as the foundation of the new store concept, it’s clear Nike is leaning into the increasing importance of innovative omnichannel experiences. And with digital channels accounting for nearly 30% of total business in the quarter for the retailer and a shift to focus on direct to consumer purchasing in recent years, the emphasis on digital makes sense. https://www.retaildive.com/news/nike-opens-latest-store-concept-nike-rise/581404/ Uber Launches Grocery DeliveryNike’s not the only one making headlines for innovative solutions. Uber is launching U.S. grocery delivery this month, pushing into a booming market while it’s original ride-hailing model has likely taken a hit. The company will launch in Dallas and Miami, where the company recently soft-launched, before expanding to other cities. Deliveries will be handles by Cornershop workers, a grocery app acquired by Uber last year. And speaking of acquisitions, this news came just one day after Uber announced it was buying Postmates in a whopping $2.65 billion dollar deal.https://www.retaildive.com/news/uber-will-launch-us-grocery-delivery-this-month/581211/https://www.grocerydive.com/news/uber-buys-postmates-in-265b-deal/581054/ Walmart Reportedly Pushing Ahead with Prime Membership CompetitorIt’s no secret that Amazon and Walmart have been battling head to head for quite some time. The two retail and e-comm giants can almost cause whiplash with the back and forth strategy swaps and matches, like with Walmart’s rollout of one-day shipping at an eerily similar time as Amazon. But the competition may have come to a head. According to Recode, Walmart announced its Prime membership competitor back in March but had to delay the launch due to COVID. Now, according to Recode sources, the retail giant plans to push forward this month with Walmart+, a $98 dollar yearly subscription. Members would enjoy perks like same-day delivery of groceries and select merchandise, fuel discounts, and early access to product deals. While it’s too soon to predict how Walmart’s latest pushback against Amazon will fare, especially since so many of Walmart’s highest-paying customers are also Prime members, based on the company’s full-throttle strategic moves to grow its e-commerce business and further claim its authority in the competitive grocery space, I think the program could be a worthy competitor to Prime. Handling Customer Experience During a Pandemic: Data and PersonalizationCustomer data. In the digital age where privacy is a concern and transparency is key, it’s easy to go wrong. And in an environment where trust is more important than ever, it’s crucial to get it right. Collecting data is an essential element to superior online customer experiences. So what are the best practices for collecting data that’s useful without violating the trust of the very person you want to create that incredible experience for? Find your North Star. This was a golden piece of advice that Patrick Carney, the Director of Customer Service at 4Ocean, shared at the 2020 CXLife Virtual Conference. He explained that identifying your North Star, AKA the end goal or result you want to achieve, is key to knowing what data you should be collecting and how you want to use it. Because, as he puts it quote, “The first step is determining your North Star. From there, you can reverse-engineer all the data you’re trying to acquire and be able to piece that together. Step one is figuring out what is the experience you want and reverse engineering to be able to execute upon that.” end quote.Onto transparency. You had to know that was coming because any conversation about collecting data is usually followed by this word. But more than a buzz word, this should be a guiding principle when you’re approaching data. Trust is huge when you’re talking about providing a great customer experience. For lack of a better term, being shady will do the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. Even the best of intentions without that transparent policy can work against you. KC Holiday, the founder of QALO, echoed this when he talked about collecting customer data at the Virtual Conference. He explained that when you start collecting customer data for the sake of collecting it and don’t make it clear to your customers what you’re doing with it and why, that can become a slippery slope. Truly understanding why you’re collecting data and connecting it back to how you’re crafting personalized experiences that stand out is crucial.KC went on to say that regardless of what you’re collecting now, there’s an opportunity to utilize what you currently have with the team that you already have in place in a way that improves customer experiences. That’s such an important piece of advice to take away and apply to almost everything in life. There’s an opportunity to optimize the processes you already have. You have the potential for improvement at every point in your CX strategy no matter who you are or what company you work for. Dive into what you already have and finetune how it can improve your customer’s experiences.Get creative, get innovative. ClosingThanks for tuning into today’s episode. If you want to explore even more content about all things CX, request to join the CXLife community. Not only will you have access to on-demand content from past events, you’ll gain access to a number of community perks including networking sessions and mentorship.  Until next time!

Welcome to Simplr® CXLife Today, a resource for staying up to date on the latest consumer trends, as well as retail, e-comm, and consumer technology headlines. I’m Madison Huffman with this week’s news.Curve, a banking platform that lets you consolidate all of your bank cards into one Curve card and app, has been quietly testing its planned “Klarna rival”.Buying used clothing is a trend that has skyrocketed within the past few years, with major players like The RealReal and thredUp leading the way in the industry. Walmart is betting the trend won’t slow down anytime soon. The company recently announced an e-commerce partnership with thredUp.On a promising note, the unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent and employers added 2.5 million jobs in May.Speed matters when you’re talking to your customer. "The fastest growing brands are responding in under an hour." - CMO of Simplr, Daniel RodriguezEmpathy is more important than ever. Everyone you talk to is experiencing something entirely new and unexpected. Chris Vetrano, Head of Partner and Customer Engagement at Lyft, perhaps said it best during his panel session at the Virtual Conference. Quote, “We’re all in this together. We don’t know what tomorrow looks like. When -- or if --  we go back to normal, what is that going to look like? ...Come down on the human level of ‘Hey, we didn't anticipate this happening to you. We didn't anticipate it happening to us. So, we're going to work through this together.’Have you joined the CXLife Community yet? It’s totally free to join and get access to a vast array of perks, including listening to the virtual conference replay sessions on demand! 

In this episode, I sat down with Julie Hogan, the VP of Customer Experience at Drift. She shared some incredibly insightful answers about what she's learned about CX during the pandemic, the trends she's seeing, and examples of her own personal experiences with delivering great customer experiences during this time."When you're in an environment like a virtual panel, everybody's face is condensed to the exact same size and screen and you see the personal touches of where this person is in. You see their background, you see their home. So I think it's been surprising to see how this sort of breaks down barriers between brands and people and the people who are part of these companies."We'll also have the pleasure of hearing from Julie again at the upcoming CXLife Virtual Conference! She gave a little teaser on her session about Fueling Reliable Revenue Through Customer Experience. If you want to hear even more of what's sure to be an incredible session, you can register for the free CXLife Conference here. Thanks so much for joining us, Julie!  

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your weekly briefing.  OpeningWelcome to Simplr® CXLife Today, a resource for staying up to date on the latest consumer trends, as well as retail, e-comm, and consumer technology headlines. I’m Madison Huffman with this week’s news.Shopify has continued to perform well, becoming Canada’s second-most valuable stock on the market just last week, according to Bloomberg. Now it’s pushing into the crowded mobile commerce space with its new Shop app in an effort to help small, local businesses that are struggling and compete with other e-commerce platforms experiencing a surge during the pandemic, like Amazon.First, here are the latest headlines.Amazon Topped 4 Billion Visitors in MarchAccording to data from LearnBonds, Amazon had over 4 billion visitors in March. The staggering number is more than the combined number of visitors to eBay, Apple, Walmart, and Samsung during the same period. LearnBonds also predicted that since no economies have been reopened at large yet, the number of online shoppers in April will also be high as consumers stay away from physical stores during safer-at-home orders.Curbside Pickup Catching OnStaying at home hasn’t stopped consumers from shopping, as evidenced by the staggering number of visitors for Amazon during March. While pure online players have had an advantage during the current pandemic, many brick-and-mortar stores have relied heavily on strategies like curbside pickup. The strategy was already becoming a popular trend with shoppers before the pandemic, but since concerns over social distancing and health safety, the fulfillment option has become a go-to. April 1st through the 20th saw a 208% surge in curbside pickup orders when compared to the previous year, according to Adobe Analytics. According to the president of commercial real estate services firm JLL’s Retail Advisory Team, the trend is here to stay citing that shoppers will likely be more hesitant to visit stores even once restrictions end. The model of delivery has proven to be valuable to both customers and retailers during an unprecedented time.Allbirds Releases New Style Amidst PandemicAllbirds, known for making sustainable wool runners, is making a push into the highly competitive market for athletic footwear. It’s a bold move to release a new product during a pandemic while simultaneously joining the ranks of powerhouse brands like Nike, Adidas, and Asics. When asked about the decision to release the new athletic style now, co-founder Tim Brown said the company has been working on perfecting the running silhouette for years and stated, “In the midst of all this, people are running...more than ever...we felt like the product was serving that purpose.” He also suspects that people are growing more comfortable with making purchases online and said that while the current circumstances present unique challenges, they’re trying to adapt just like everyone else to the situation.  Shopify Pushes Into Mobile Commerce With Shop App  According to a press release, Shopify debuted a mobile shopping assistant app called Shop. The app provides a range of services for users from product discovery, to payment, and real-time delivery updates. In the press release, Shopify positioned the app as a means of deepening connection and loyalty between consumers and their favorite brands in, “a world of increasing physical separation.”  Key feature of the app, including the spotlight of local brands and driving repeat business, could resonate with users. A recent survey from Ernst & Young found that 34% of respondents are willing to pay more for local products amid the pandemic. Small businesses in general have been at peril during the outbreak as store closures and safer-at-home orders have continued, forcing them to rely on pickup and delivery. Shopify is positioning the Shop app as a means of supporting those struggling at the moment.  At launch, Shop has its share of large brands, including several in the direct-to-consumer category. Allbirds, Universal Standard, ThirdLove, and Brooklinen are among the brands that were highlighted in a video promoting the app.  Shopify’s push into the crowded mobile commerce space comes as the company continues to perform well, becoming the second-most valuable company on Canada’s stock market just last week, according to Bloomberg. While it’s pushing into a crowded space, its focus on smaller, local merchants could help differentiate Shop from other e-commerce platforms seeing a surge during the pandemic, including Amazon.    ClosingWant to hear the latest innovations in CX from leaders at companies like Uber, Doordash, LinkedIn, and more? Register for the CXLife Virtual Summit on May 21st. Find the link to register below in the show notes: https://cxlife.org/cxlife-2020    Thanks for listening to CXLife Today. Until next time.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your weekly briefing.  OpeningWelcome to Simplr® CXLife Today, a resource for staying up to date on the latest consumer trends, as well as retail, e-comm, and consumer technology headlines. I’m Madison Huffman with this week’s news.NBCUniversal is making its push into the shoppable commerce space. The company debuted its shoppable e-commerce platform, NBCUniversal Checkout, on Thursday.First, here are the latest headlines.Some Industries Still Reporting Strong SalesWhile many companies are facing the impact store closures have had on business, some industries are still reporting strong sales. Pet retailers like Chewy, PetSmart, and Petco saw a boost in sales during March as consumers stocked up on supplies for themselves and their furry companions before safer-at-home orders began. For the month of March, pet food dollar growth was up 24% from the previous year, while pet supplies dollar growth was up 10% from last year. In comparison, apparel sales in March fell a whopping 52% year over year, furniture sales fell 28.6%, and sporting goods fell 23.5%. The strong sales reported for pet retailers underscore the importance of pets to families and how COVID-19 has affected consumer’s purchasing priorities.  Sycamore Partners Trying to Back Out of Victoria's Secret DealSycamore Partners is now looking for a way to back out of its previously agreed-upon deal to acquire a majority stake in L Brands Victoria’s Secret. L Brands said on Wednesday that Sycamore delivered a notice to terminate their agreement. L Brands also said that Sycamore asked the Chancery Court of Delaware to allow it to rip up the agreement. The firm is now saying that by taking measures such as shuttering stores and laying off employees, L Brands violated its obligation to conduct business per the agreement between the two companies. L Brands said it will quote, “vigorously defend the lawsuit and pursue all legal remedies to enforce its contractual rights, including the right of specific performance,” end quote.  Target Gaining Market Share But Shedding ProfitsTarget revealed that while its gaining market share as shoppers shift to online shopping, it’s also shedding profits. The company’s digital sales are up 100% year-over-year since the beginning of February, with April sales increasing more than 275%. The company said they expect operating margins to drop by more than 5% in the first quarter.  Universal Ventures Into Shoppable Commerce With NBCUniversal  NBCUniversal just debuted a shoppable e-commerce platform. On Thursday, the company introduced NBCUniversal Checkout, a direct-to-consumer platform that allows companies to connect content with their e-commerce operations, according to a press release. With the platform, retailers can create branded and editorial on NBCUniversal properties with links to featured items, use NBCU codes to connect TV viewers with items shown and integrate NBCUniversal Checkout with their social media posts, the company said. It’s the latest effort on the part of NBCUniversal to bridge the gap between content and commerce. The company said it’s trying to ease the shift from physical stores to delivery and e-commerce in the wake of COVID-19 forcing stores to close.  NBCUniversal isn’t the only company venturing into the shoppable commerce space. On Wednesday, Google announced it would allow sellers to list products without selling fees, and began testing shoppable commerce on Youtube last May.  ClosingWant to hear the latest innovations in CX from leaders at companies like Uber, Doordash, LinkedIn, and more? Register for the CXLife Virtual Summit on May 21st. The tickets are free, the learnings priceless. https://cxlife.org/cxlife-2020Thanks for listening to CXLife Today. Until next time.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your weekly briefing.  OpeningWelcome to Simplr® CXLife Today, a resource for staying up to date on the latest consumer trends, as well as retail and e-comm headlines. I’m Madison Huffman with this week’s news.In an effort to improve current systems to keep up with a spike in demand, Instacart has rolled out two new features to add speed and flexibility for customers.First, here are the latest headlines.Bed Bath & Beyond Sells Off One King Lane BannerOn a call with analysts, the CEO of Bed Bath & Beyond, Mark Tritton, said they sold off its One King Lane banner to an unnamed third party. The retailer acquired the home decor site in 2016. He didn’t disclose how much the banner sold for on the call. It’s one of the retailer’s latest moves in responding to the effects the coronavirus has had on business. While store closures have hit the retailer, some of its banners that are deemed essential have remained open. BuyBuy Baby launched curbside pickup at the beginning of the month and fulfilled over 11,000 orders during the first week.  Streaming Services See Spike in Demand Due to Social DistancingWhile movie theatres have been crippled by the coronavirus and social distancing measures, streaming services have seen a spike in demand. The Starz app has seen a 142% increase in new customers since the stay-at-home orders began and a 44% increase in average viewership. Similarly, Disney’s streaming service, Disney+ announced it now had more than 50 million subscribers, twice the amount reported in February.  Procter & Gamble Q3 Sales Up 10%Procter & Gamble reported that its fiscal third-quarter U.S. sales surged 10% as consumers stocked up on staples like toilet paper and paper towels. Jon Moeller, both the CEO and CFO of Procter & Gamble, said that the coronavirus pandemic could change consumer behavior permanently when it comes to certain products. Net sales rose 5% to over $17 billion dollars.Grocery Delivery Services Adapt To Keep Up With DemandInstacart debuted two new features to speed up its service and add flexibility amid the coronavirus pandemic. With the company’s fast and flexible feature, customers can choose to have their order delivered by the first available shopper, rather than selecting a specific delivery window. The new order-ahead feature will let customers place orders up to two weeks in advance. Previously they could only place an order up to seven days in advance.  The features are an answer to some of the frustrations customers have expressed during a time the service is seeing a spike in demand. Other delivery services like FreshDirect, Amazon Fresh, and Shipt have all seen challenges during the pandemic, with the demand for grocery delivery skyrocketing. Instacart’s CEO said in a statement that the demand they’ve seen in the past few weeks was what the company expected to see in the next two to four years. The company has seen a 300% increase in customer volume year over year and has added over 150,000 additional shoppers to its pool of contractors in the past two weeks.  While these grocery delivery services are working to adapt their systems to the current circumstances and staffing up as quickly as possible, it is taking time to deal with the strain on their existing systems and course correct.  ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you’ll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question–so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Visit simplr.ai to learn more.Thanks for listening to CXLife Today. Until next time.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your weekly briefing.  OpeningThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Saturday, April 11th. Here are this week’s headlines.According to a report from App Annie, consumers spent over a whopping $23.4 billion dollars via app stores in the first quarter, becoming the highest quarter ever for consumer spending in that area. The App Annie report adds further context to how consumers are adjusting their media consumption and commerce online during the coronavirus pandemic.Here are the latest headlines.Panera Making Dairy Products and Bread Available for PickupAs common essentials like dairy products and bread become more difficult to find on the shelves at grocery stores, Panera is making these select items available on their menu for pickup or delivery. The food company is even offering select produce like tomatoes and avocado to its customers. Panera’s CEO said , “...it is an incredibly stressful time when it comes to putting wholesome food on the table, and we knew Panera could help...With this new service, we can help deliver good food and fresh ingredients from our pantry to yours, helping provide better access to essential items that are increasingly harder to come by.”Amazon Prime Day PostponedPrime Day, normally held in July, has reportedly been postponed through at least August. The e-commerce giant is also anticipating a $100 million dollar loss because it may have to deeply discount devices, according to Reuters. It’s yet another adjustment that shows how changing consumer behavior and the coronavirus pandemic are changing behavior both of shoppers and businesses.Walmart Hired 100,000 EmployeesWalmart has hired another 100,000 employees to keep up with demand during the pandemic. The company’s VP of Corporate Affairs said many of Walmart’s new employees come from hard-hit industries and are using the jobs to stay afloat until their traditional jobs come back online. The retailer has seen a surge in demand for products like hair color, beard trimmers, and sewing machines as shoppers stay indoors and make their own cloth masks.  A Report Reveals Mobile Apps Saw Record Spending In Q1According to a report from App Annie, consumers spent over a whopping $23.4 billion dollars via app stores in the first quarter, becoming the highest quarter ever for consumer spending in that area. Consumers spent $15 billion on iOS and $8.3 billion on Google Play. App Annie attributed the growth in app downloads and purchases to the COVID-19 outbreak, as governments impose quarantines and self-isolation, leaving consumers with more time to be on their mobile devices.The App Annie report adds further context to how consumers are adjusting their media consumption and commerce online. Ad Colony reported that mobile gaming increased 24 percent in the last two weeks of March as people consume entertainment through their mobile phones. A similar trend has emerged in the e-commerce sector. Grocery delivery apps have seen a spike in downloads as consumers shift their ordering online.    ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you’ll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question–so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Visit simplr.ai to learn more.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Until next time. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  OpeningThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Monday, March 30th. Here are today’s headlines.The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically affected brick-and-mortar retail, but what about e-commerce? Some retailers are relying on digital sales to make up for lagging brick-and-mortar performance, but data shows even e-commerce has slowed for companies.Here are the latest headlines.Joann Stores Opening Classrooms to Help May Stuff for Healthcare WorkersJoann Stores has launched an effort to make items for healthcare workers. The arts and crafts retailer announced it would be opening its classrooms to any who would want to help make essential items for healthcare workers, including facemasks and covers, gowns, and other items to donate to American hospitals. Participating locations will offer sewing machines, materials, and guidance to help customers safely make the items. Classroom occupancy will be limited to adhere to CDC recommended guidelines for social distancing and local restrictions.  H&M Offers Supply Network to EUSweden’s H&M, the world’s second-largest fashion retailer, said on Sunday it would use its supply network to source personal protective equipment for hospitals in the European Union to help curb the spread of the coronavirus. H&M said it had offered the EU its help and was now trying to understand which needs were most urgent while working out what its supply chain could deliver. In an email, an H&M spokesperson said,  “The EU has asked us to share our purchasing operations and logistics capabilities in order to source supplies, but in this urgent initial phase, we will donate the supplies.”Allbirds Offering Free Shoes to Healthcare WorkersSustainable footwear company, Allbirds, is joining other retailers in finding ways to support healthcare workers during the coronavirus pandemic. The San Francisco-based company announced it is supporting healthcare workers in the United States by offering free shoes. In a tweet, the company said, quote, “We are donating shoes to anyone who works in healthcare and is on the front lines of fighting COVID-19 right now.” The company also added, “To our US healthcare community – we want to thank you for being on the front lines and helping to keep our communities healthy.”  COVID-19 And Its Impact On E-commerceCOVID-19 continues to impact retail around the globe. Many stores that are considered unessential are being forced to close to curb the spread of the coronavirus. While physical retail stores are closing, many businesses have turned to e-commerce to make up for the lack of physical foot traffic.  Some retailers are even waiving minimum order requirements to help e-commerce efforts along, like offering free shipping or free returns for a limited time. Yet, other retailers like Victoria’s Secret, TJMaxx, and Marshalls, have also halted their digital sales. Most site the need to protect workers in those operations and the goal of slowing the spread of the disease. Retailers that are continuing with their e-commerce efforts have sent assuring messages to customers detailing the efforts and steps they’re taking to sanitize distribution centers and extra measures to keep employees and consumers safe.  Pure-play retailers may have thought they’d escape the consequences of rapidly changing consumer behavior by running few or no physical retail spaces, but performance agency Within found that their revenue fell 63 percent on March 18 compared to its pre-virus benchmark period. Conversion rates were also at an all-time low at negative 35 percent versus pre-COVID-19.  The mixed responses and latest data show that even e-commerce isn’t untouched by the current circumstances as retailers scramble to drastically shift their strategies and operations.  ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you’ll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question–so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Visit simplr.ai to learn more.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Until next time.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Monday, March 23rd. Here are today’s headlines.Large retailers are making dramatic changes in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Companies like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart have taken steps like increasing employee wages, hiring more employees, and providing paid leave as the economic landscape and consumer demand changes rapidly.Here are the latest headlines.COVID-19 Affecting Shipping and FulfillmentUnsurprisingly the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting shipping and fulfillment. New study findings from delivery experience management company, Convey, show that shipping volume for cleaning and household supplies is up 52 percent. At the same time, order fulfillment and delivery are experiencing significant delays. According to the findings, fulfillment time has increased by 40 percent during the past three weeks. The trend has been especially evident in large-format deliveries, indicating supply chain slowdowns.  Best Buy Goes "Contactless"Starting yesterday, Best Buy is limiting its U.S. stores to contactless curbside pickup, allowing only its employees into stores, according to a statement from the company. The company has also suspended its in-home installations and repair services, as well as its product trade-in and recycling services. The changes come in response to the rapidly evolving Coronavirus situation and as they see a surge in demand for products needed to work or learn from home.  Walmart Plans to Hire 150,000Retail giant, Walmart, is planning on hiring 150,000 people in the midst of the pandemic to help keep up with consumer demand. The roles would initially be temporary, though many will convert to permanent roles over time, Walmart said. The roles are based in the retailer’s stores, clubs, distribution centers, and fulfillment centers. The company also announced $550 million dollars in bonuses to reward its workers. Walmart’s President and CEO, Doug McMillion, said, “We know millions of Americans who are usually employed at this time are temporarily out of work, and at the same time we’re currently seeing strong demand in our stores...We’re looking for people who see Walmart as a chance to earn some extra money and perform a vital service to their community.”Target Increasing Benefits Amid COVID-19 OutbreakTarget joins Walmart on a growing list of retailers increasing the benefits for its employees in response to COVID-19. The company is investing more than $300 million dollars in added wages, a new paid leave program, bonus payouts, and associate and community relief fund contributions. Full-time and part-time hourly associates working in stores and distribution centers will receive a two-dollar pay increase through at least May 2nd. In addition, U.S. team members who are 65 or older, pregnant, or who have underlying medical conditions as defined by the CDC now have access to 30 days of paid leave if they prefer not to work. Target’s CEO Brian Cornell said, “With each passing day, it’s clearer how indispensable our team is to communities across the country as our guests cope with the coronavirus...Increasing their compensation for a job incredibly well done and ensuring continued compensation for those who need to care for themselves and their families is a reflection of our company’s values and simply the right thing to do.”ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you’ll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question–so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Visit simplr.ai to learn more.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Until next time.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, March 19th. Here are today’s headlines.There’s no escaping the dramatic effects of COVID-19 as it spreads across nations around the world. It’s changing the retail landscape dramatically as companies scramble to put safety measures into place, including shuttering stores temporarily to help flatten the curve.Here are the latest headlines.Amazon Making Major Changes Due to COVID-19As the coronavirus epidemic rages on, Amazon has limited Marketplace fulfillment to medical supplies and household essentials. According to a notice, Amazon has suspended the intake of most products from U.S. and European Union Marketplace sellers into its fulfillment centers through April 5th. The e-commerce giant is temporarily quote, “prioritizing household staples, medical supplies, and other high-demand products coming into our fulfillment centers so that we can more quickly receive, restock, and ship these products to customers,” end quote.  It’s one of the latest measures Amazon has taken as the current epidemic rapidly changes consumer behavior and effects how retail operates. The e-commerce giant will also open 100,000 full and part-time positions in its fulfillment centers and delivery network as it sees a spike in demand for e-commerce due to quarantines and social distancing. In a company blog post, Amazon described its labor requirements as,“unprecedented for this time of year.” Amazon will also increase pay for hourly workers by two dollars through April.  Retails Making Closures in Response to COVID-19Amazon isn’t the only company changing day-to-day operations. Retailers from Apple to Lululemon have joined schools, workplaces, and churches in shutting their doors temporarily to contain the spread of COVID-19. The American Dream mall in New Jersey announced last week it will be postponing the opening of several retailers and the DreamWorks Water Park, which was slated to open March 19th, and is temporarily closing the mall entirely. The closures come as the CDC recently recommended canceling or postponing gatherings of 50 or more people for the next eight weeks.  Grocery Delivery / Meal Delivery Subscriptions Seeing SpikesAs Americans across the nation practice social distancing, grocery delivery services like Instacart and Amazon Fresh have seen spikes in demand. But other food startups are also seeing increased consumer demand and we expect will continue to see increased demand for the foreseeable future.  Meal delivery kit subscription company, Blue Apron, has seen its stock prices more than double this week. Daily Harvest, which sells smoothies and soups, posted on social media that it was doubling its inventory in response to an increase in demand. Trade Coffee reported a 10x increase in new subscriptions and Real Good Foods, which sells a line of Keto-friendly foods, said it has seen a 20x increase in its direct-to-consumer business.E-commerce food businesses are facing a similar dilemma to makers of hand-sanitizers, soap, and other in-demand products, which is how to keep up with demand. While these food startups have only experienced sales bumps within the past few weeks, it’s likely to be a trend that sticks around and they’re preparing for the unprecedented demand for the foreseeable future. The chief marketing officer of Real Good Foods said, “People with autoimmune issues — they are not going to be going to Chipotle in 6, 12, 18 months because they are just scared. This is going to change behaviors, for sure over the next 18-24 months.”ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you’ll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question–so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Visit simplr.ai to learn more.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Until next time.   

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of Today In Five. I’m your host, Madison Huffman, and I’m reporting on the latest headlines on digital disruption.Today’s Quick Headlines:Wayfair’s losses continue to grow despite the online home goods retailer’s continued sales growth.Shortly after selling a majority stake in its Victoria’s Secret brand, L Brands has big plans for its Bath & Body Works business.Panera launched an unlimited-coffee subscription last week that costs $9 dollars a month.Walmart’s Answer to PrimeWalmart just created its answer to Amazon’s Prime membership. Walmart+ is the retailer’s new subscription program that will offer perks such as unlimited same-day grocery delivery and more. Want to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. Resources:https://www.retaildive.com/news/wayfair-posts-eyewatering-985m-loss-for-the-year/573223/https://chainstoreage.com/bath-body-works-has-big-store-expansion-planshttps://www.businessinsider.com/panera-unlimited-coffee-subscription-cost-how-to-sign-up-2020-2https://www.retaildive.com/news/walmarts-answer-to-amazon-prime-is-in-the-works/573225/

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Friday, February 28th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Amazon has debuted Amazon Go grocery this week, a cashier-less grocery store that further pushes the giant into the industry.  First, here are the latest headlines.Disney CEO Iger Steps DownDisney CEO Bog Iger has stepped down. The change will take effect immediately but will be staying on as the company’s executive chairman, Disney announced. Iger, who pushed back his retirement several times, will continue overseeing creative projects through 2021. In a statement, he said now was, “the optimal time,” to transition following the company’s launch of its direct-to-consumer business and completes its integration of 21st Century Fox.Target's Focus on E-Commerce "Paying Off"A new report from eMarketer revealed that Target’s focus on building its e-commerce operations is paying off. The company, who used to rank number 11 in the U.S. in e-commerce sales, is now poised to take the number 8 spot. According to eMarketer, Target’s e-commerce business will jump 24 percent in 2020 to $8.34 billion dollars and its share of the U.S. market will grow to 1.2 percent. Target will also inch past Costco this year, with only $10 million in online sales separating the two companies.Google Driving E-Commerce Sales Better Than Facebook and InstagramAccording to a new study, Google is a better driver of e-commerce sales than social networks Facebook and Instagram. The study suggested that the search giant reaches consumers who are more intent on making a purchase. Google’s ability to drive better sales and web traffic indicates a key difference in how consumers use the respective platforms. Google and Facebook, which owns Instagram, have boosted their e-commerce efforts over the past few years to address growing competition with Amazon, which has a rapidly growing digital advertising business and is the first place many consumers go to find a product.  Amazon Opens Cashierless Supermarket In Latest Grocery PushAmazon rolled out its checkout-free Go technology in a large grocery store and plans to license the cashier-less system to other retailers. Amazon Go Grocery opened on Tuesday and uses an array of cameras, shelf sensors, and software to allow shoppers to pick up items and walk out without stopping to pay or scan merchandise. Accounts are automatically charged through a smartphone app once shoppers leave the store.  The company has operated a string of Go-branded convenience stores since 2018, but improvements in camera technology and its use of algorithms have allowed it to build a larger-scale format. Amazon hopes the grocery store will serve as a showcase for its technology as it seeks to sell its systems to other businesses.Amazon’s cashier-less stores have inspired other retailers and tech startups to explore similar technology, including models that feature smart shopping carts. Some startups, including Grabango Co, have signed deals with regional grocery chains.  Go Grocery is part of a broader expansion of Amazon’s presence in grocery. Aside from the more than 500 Whole Foods stores, the company recently confirmed plans to start a separate grocery chain with human cashiers, with the first store planned for the Los Angeles area this year. Grocery delivery has also been a growing focus. Amazon has used Whole Foods locations to deliver food to customers, and the company also offers delivery in some areas through its Amazon Fresh unit.  As Amazon has gained a strong foothold in the industry, Walmart and Target have also ramped up their grocery delivery efforts. Walmart this month said online grocery sales helped boost its U.S. e-commerce revenue by 35 percent in the fourth quarter.  ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you’ll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question–so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s s-i-m-p-r.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  L Brands has reached a deal to sell a controlling stake of Victoria’s Secret to Sycamore Partners. The deal will see longtime CEO, Les Wexner, step down from the company. “I have decided that now is the right time to pass the reins to new leadership.”Quick Headlines:Banana Republic announced a new partnership with Postmates, introducing on-demand delivery in select markets.  Gap Inc. is the latest retailer to partner with apparel resale company, thredUp.Morgan Stanley pushed further into retail with the largest acquisition since the financial crisis.  Find out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. 

Tim is a co-founder of Vincero, a rapidly growing direct-to-consumer lifestyle brand based in San Diego. Vincero designs and manufactures modern accessories that elevate your look, last a lifetime and don't cost a fortune.Head to vincerowatches.com to find incredible watches and an incredible customer experience waiting for you. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  OpeningThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Tuesday, February 18th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.The coronavirus epidemic has had a dramatic global impact, even on the global economy. Apple’s warning that it wouldn’t meet revenue expectations underscores those far-reaching effects.  First, here are the latest headlines.Rent The Runway Chooses Amazon Exec for Chief Supply Chain OfficerRent The Runway is tapping former Amazon exec as chief supply chain officer. Bringing on board a veteran in operations will help the popular startup fine-tune its supply chain. The company’s CEO and founder said, “Brian’s leadership and experience in operations and logistics will be a valuable asset to the company.”1-800-Flowers Purchases PersonalizationMall.com from Bed, Bath & BeyondBed, Bath & Beyond is selling its personalized gift e-retailer, PersonalizationMall.com to 1-800-Flowers.com for $252 million dollars in cash, according to press releases from the company. The flower and gifts site will get the PersonalizationMall.com website as well as a “new, state-of-the-art...production and distribution facility…” The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including scrutiny under antitrust regulations, according to the companies, which say they have signed a definitive agreement. The CEO of Bed, Bath & Beyond said the sale would help streamline the company’s operations and hinted there may be more of that to come.  Bezos Gifts $10B to Fund Climate Change ProgramsAmazon’s CEO, Jeff Bezos, just made the second-largest charitable gift in recent history. The Amazon founder is giving $10 billion dollars to a new initiative that will fund programs to combat climate change. He announced the donation on Monday through an Instagram post. In his post, he said, “Climate change is the biggest threat to our planet. I want to work alongside others both to amplify known ways and explore new ways of fighting the devastating impact of climate change on this planet we all share...This global initiative will fund scientists, activists, NGOs — any effort that offers a real possibility to help preserve and protect the natural world.”Apple Warns It Won’t Meet Quarter Revenue Expectations Because Of Coronavirus EpidemicApple on Monday said it expects to fall short of revenue goals in the current quarter because of the coronavirus outbreak, underscoring the far-reaching effects of the virus on the global economy. In a statement to investors, Apple said that while factories in China were reopening, iPhone production in the company was ramping up more slowly than expected. The company said, “These iPhone shortages will temporarily affect revenues worldwide.” Demand for iPhones in China has also dampened, where all the company’s stores have shuttered, according to the statement.  Apple’s success over the last decade, its value increasing by more than $1 trillion dollars, has largely depended on its ability to harness the power of China’s massive labor force and its network of manufacturers who can meet the demand for the world’s most popular gadget: the iPhone. But that dependence on China is now at risk.  Apple’s announcement added to the mounting economic fallout from the coronavirus epidemic. Analysts expect the global economy to shrink this quarter for the first time since 2009 as a consequence of the outbreak.  ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Monday, February 17th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.DTC has been a rapidly growing trend in the age of online shopping. According to Shopify’s COO, direct-to-consumer retail is more than just a fad, it’s here to stay.  First, here are the latest headlines.Stitch Fix Shop Your Looks Feature Out of BetaThe new Stitch Fix Shop Your Looks feature is out of beta and available to all women’s and men’s customers in the U.S. The company’s CEO announced in October that the company was testing the algorithm-led sub-service, which allows customers to choose among items that would go well with pieces they already own, rather than leaving that choice up to their stylist. By December, she reported the beta test had been expanded to about a third of its female clientele and would extend to men. She also said that those using the feature interacted with the company multiple times and that it boosted sales. The new tech introduces a level of traditional e-commerce that departs from the company’s curated boxes.  L Brands Close to Deal to Sell Victoria's SecretL Brands is nearing a deal to sell its Victoria’s Secret brand to private equity firm, Sycamore Partners, in a deal that could be announced as soon as this week, according to people familiar with the matter. For Sycamore, a deal to buy Victoria’s Secret would be a bet on a dominant player in the large intimate apparel industry. Bras are a $7.2 billion dollar category, and Victoria’s Secret, which also sells, pajamas, perfumes, and other accessories, had roughly $7.4 billion dollars in sales last year. Sycamore would also be betting it could reinvigorate the lingerie brand after it has faced several setbacks and losing share to competitors like ThirdLove, who prioritize comfortable styles.  Walmart Shutting Down JetBlackWalmart is shutting down its JetBlack personal-shopping service. Most of its 350 employees will be laid off after the retailer failed to find investors for the unprofitable operation. The company will stop delivery services on February 21st, according to a Walmart spokesman. Last year, Walmart worked to spin-off the unit, which had less than a thousand customers as of last year. The retailer discussed an investment with several potential partners, but people familiar with the matter said those talks have ended. The news comes at a time when Walmart is working to stem its losses from its smaller e-commerce units, selling acquired brands or cutting staff in those businesses.Shopify COO Says DTC Is “No Longer A Fad”DTC retail has emerged as a key strategy in the age of online shopping, with big brand names like Nike and Tesla Motors taking advantage of the trend. Now one of the top e-commerce platforms is saying their performance speaks to a broader shift in digital commerce. According to Shopify’s COO, the company’s holiday quarter performance is indicative of emerging retail trends. The e-commerce platform recorded almost $3 billion dollars of global sales over the Black Friday to Cyber Monday period last November, a 61 percent increase from the year prior. In an interview, the COO said, “That is the example where direct-to-consumer is no longer a fad...It is now a steady-state, and it’s being powered by Shopify. We’re at the center of that.” Shopify’s holiday numbers are part of a better-than-expected fourth-quarter earnings report. The company grew its top line by 47 percent year over year to $505 million dollars in the December quarter, crushing analyst estimates. The COO said, “This is the story of independent brands and entrepreneurs doing really, really well, and the consumers are voting with their wallets...I think Shopify is powering the entrepreneurship movement.”   ClosingMost leaders feel overwhelmed when the unexpected impacts the customer experience. With Simplr customer service, you'll always have on-demand staffing to answer every customer question—so you can be in control and stay focused on growing the business. Head to Simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

We had the pleasure of talking to Karin Dillie from The RealReal. She is the Director of Trusts and Estates at The RealReal. She advises professional fiduciaries, lawyers and wealth managers on the sale of estates, trusts, and single-owner collections.   Karin started her career at Sotheby's in the Valuations and Estate Management Department, where she oversaw the appraisal of art and home decor for high net worth clients. At Sotheby's, she then proceeded to oversee the sale of the largest trusts, estates and single-owner collections.   Karin is a graduate of the University of Florida and received her Master's in Business Administration from Yale School of Management. She's also a member of the San Francisco Estate Planning Council. The RealReal is a leading force within the luxury resale industry, providing consumers everywhere an authentic and sustainable resource for unique luxury items. Visit them at therealreal.com or find a location near you.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five with Madison Huffman, for today, Thursday, February 13th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Harry’s and Brandless both suffered major setbacks this week, revealing the limits and struggles direct-to-consumer disruptors are facing.First, here are the latest headlines.Goop and Banana Republic Launch Co-Branded CollectionGwyneth Paltrow’s goop brand is launching a co-branded online apparel collection and podcast series installment with Banana Republic. The goop Edit for Banana Republic will launch in spring 2020 and feature five everyday essentials. The capsule will launch exclusively on goop.com February 11th and on Banana Republic’s e-commerce site beginning February 25th.Saks Off 5th Being Led by Former Nordstrom Rack ExecFormer Nordstrom Rack executive, Paige Thomas, will now lead Saks Off 5th, effective immediately. Thomas was most recently the general merchandise manager of men’s and kids at Nordstrom’s full-price business but was general merchandise manager at its off-price Nordstrom Rack operation for more than five years. She oversaw growth in both e-commerce and physical retail while there, including the opening of more than 100 stores and the launch of the Rack website. In tapping Thomas, Saks Off 5th is regrouping under the direction of an executive who once helped lead a powerhouse in the segment. The CEO from Hudson’s Bay Company said, “With her deep merchandising background and instinct to quickly capitalize on digital opportunities, I believe Paige is the right leader to further evolve Saks Off 5th and unleash its potential as a true off-price retailer.” Spotify Purchasing RingerAs part of its push into podcasting, Spotify is reportedly paying close to $200 million dollars for the Ringer, a growing online sports and pop-culture outlet. Spotify is expected to detail the costs in a regulatory filing soon. The streaming service has now spent more than $600 million dollars to acquire four companies that can accelerate its podcasting business. The company is already the world’s largest paid music service and is challenging Apple as the dominant way people listen to podcasts.  What Harry’s And Brandless Mean For DTC DisruptorsThis week, two promising DTC companies suffered major setbacks. Grooming company, Harry’s, learned that Edgewell is dropping its bid to take it over after the FTC sued to block the deal on antitrust grounds. And online consumer goods company, Brandless, shuttered its operations. The brands’ stumbles have a lot in common, notably, an inability to scale on their own. And they reveal the limits of DTC retail.  The principal at venture capital firm Comcast Ventures told a National Retail Federation audience that, “the pendulum has swung,” , regarding venture capitalist expectations, noting that it’s becoming easier to launch a direct-to-consumer company than to grow or sustain one. The fate of Brandless is a prime example of that swing.  The company launched in 2017 saying that each of its items would only be three dollars thanks to the company’s elimination of the middle man and that by going directly to the consumer, Brandless claimed it saved some 40 percent, which was passed along to its customers. The company received backing from SoftBank in 2018, allowing it to expand into new categories. Now, after a little over two years, the company is shutting down.  The two companies pose an interesting example of the changing retail landscape. The disruptor DTC brands have their limitations. The fate of Brandless seems clear, less so Harry’s. But most if not all DTC brands are likely grappling with the same realities of customer acquisition, the challenge of turning a profit, and a need to stand on their own.  ClosingSimplr can help you scale your customer service at any stage of growth. Head to Simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Wednesday, February 12th. I’m your new host, Madison Huffman, reporting on the latest developments in the modern business world. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Strip malls, once historically ignored by some retailers, are now becoming a valuable alternative to traditional malls.First, here are the latest headlines.Brandless Shutting DownDTC retailer, Brandless, is shutting down. A report from Protocol broke the news, noting the company would stop taking orders and halt its business operations. 90 percent of Brandless staff will be laid off and the remaining employees will fulfill existing orders and evaluate acquisition opportunities. In a statement on the company’s website, they said, “While the Brandless team set a new bar for the types of products consumers deserve and at prices they expect, the fiercely competitive direct-to-consumer market has proven unsustainable for our current business model.” Edgewell Abandons Plan to Acquire Harry'sEdgewell Personal Care abandoned its plans to acquire upstart rival, Harry’s after the Federal Trade Commission sued to block the over $1 billion dollar deal. It was a notable victory for the FTC, who said the deal would have eliminated one of the most important competitive forces in the shaving industry. Edgewell’s chief executive said the company would continue to pursue its direct to consumer efforts but that it would take longer to build than it would by buying Harry’s. He also said Edgewell would continue to look for smaller brands to acquire but isn’t looking for another large deal like Harry’s.  China to Cut Tariffs on $75 billion in U.S. ImportsAccording to a statement from China’s Ministry of Finance, China will cut tariffs in half on $75 billion dollars worth of U.S. imports. The changes will take effect on February 14th. The move follows the Trump administration’s announcement during the signing of a phase one trade deal to reduce the tariff rate from 15 percent to 7.5 percent on February 14th on about $120 billion dollars worth of Chinese imports. The cutting back of tariffs represents a thawing of tensions between the two nations and will offer relief for many U.S. exporters and Chinese importers.How Strip Malls Are Becoming A Prime Location For RetailersStrip malls are starting to become a viable alternative for retailers that historically ignored them. Last week, both Macy’s and Sephora announced they would seek to open more stores in strip malls in the coming years. Last year, supplements store GNC announced plans to close 700 of its locations in malls to focus on stores in strip malls, which were reporting relatively stable store comps.  As customers increasingly shop online and malls see declining foot traffic, strip malls offer a few benefits that are becoming more important. The rent at strip malls is cheaper since their stores are typically smaller. The anchor stores are often gyms or grocery stores, giving retailers the added benefit of being in a place consumers visit on a regular basis. Sephora’s senior VP of real estate and development said, “What we have been lacking is being in those neighborhoods where our customer goes to SoulCycle or picks up pizza on Friday evening.”Retailers that have reported most or a significant amount of stores in strip malls include Target, Ulta Beauty, TJ Maxx, and Kohls. Ulta’s seen success in strip malls, with its third-quarter earnings beating estimates. The beauty retailer’s success explains why Sephora is keen to open more locations in strip malls. While the data doesn’t show a stampede of retailers filling up spaces in strip malls, it does show that vacancy rates are staying steady, while they are rising at more traditional malls.ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

On this weekend edition of "Today in Five", host Vincent Phamvan sits down with Dr. Josh Axe, the Founder of Ancient Nutrition (AncientNutrition.com) and DrAxe.com. He's a Certified Doctor of Natural Medicine, a Doctor of Chiropractic and Clinical Nutritionist with a passion to help people get healthy by empowering them to use nutrition to fuel their health. He's also the best-selling author of Keto Diet and Eat Dirt as well as the upcoming Collagen Diet book.  Dr. Josh Axe has been featured on the Dr. Oz show, in publications like Elite Daily and Men's Health. He's a leading force and thought leader within the health industry.Dr Axe founded the natural health website, Dr. Axe, which is one of the top natural health websites in the world today. Its main topics include nutrition, natural medicine, fitness, healthy recipes, and home DYI remedies and trending health news. His website includes a group of credentialed editors, writers, and a medical review board.  Dr. Axe is also the co-founder of Ancient Nutrition, which provides protein powders, holistic supplements, vitamins, essential oils, and more to the modern world.  Most recently he also launched his podcast, The Dr. Axe Show, which is already in the top 15 health and wellness podcasts on Apple Podcasts and wherever else you listen to podcasts.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Wednesday, February 5th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.The Federal Trade Commission announced they sued to block the $1.37 billion dollar acquisition of Harry’s by Edgewell Personal Care. The complaint against the deal was that the merger would eliminate one of the most important competitive forces in a shaving industry long controlled by two well-established players.First, here are the latest headlines.H&M Appoints Its First Female CEOH&M is shuffling its top leadership. The company announced it’s appointing its first female CEO, Helena Helmersson, effective immediately. Helmersson joined the company in 1997 as an economist in the buying department. Before becoming the COO, she also served as the company’s sustainability manager and production manager. She noted in a statement that, as CEO, she’ll continue moving the company along its strategic plan and would have a focus,  “on the customer to continue strengthening our financial development in the short and long term.” She also added that there was potential to expand with both existing and new brands, with new types of partnerships and to continue leading the development towards a sustainable fashion industry.Hulu CEO Stepping DownStreaming service, Hulu, also announced a leadership shakeup. The company announced that CEO, Randy Freer, is stepping down from the company as part of a major restructuring of Disney’s direct-to-consumer business. Disney acquired control of Hulu following its acquisition of 21st Century Fox and subsequent deal with NBCU last year. The giant has, up to this point, left Hulu to run business as usual. The new move signals Disney’s plans to streamline its DTC operations, which also includes Disney+ and ESPN+. The changes will also allow the company to better distribute resources across its streaming services, as well as take Hulu to international markets more quickly and efficiently.  Sephora to open 100 More Stores in 2020Popular beauty retailer, Sephora, announced they plan to open 100 stores in 2020. It’s the company’s largest rest estate expansion to date, more than doubling its store growth in 2019. The focus on its growth this year will be expanding outside of shopping malls, a place where the retailer has typically been found. Jeff Gaul, the senior vice president of Real Estate and Store Development at Sephora Americas said in an interview, "We love our stores in malls...but the focus on this next 100 is more off-mall locations.”  Sephora will also look to grow in cities like Charlotte, North Carolina, and Nashville, Tennessee, not necessarily urban markets like New York and Los Angeles. The company’s growth move comes at a time when store closures are the growing trend.The FTC Sued To Block Harry’s Acquisition By EdgewellThe Federal Trade Commission sued to block the $1.37 billion dollar deal where the maker of Schick razors, Edgewell Personal Care, would acquire upstart rival, Harry’s. The FTC alleged that Edgewell’s planned acquisition of Harry’s would eliminate one of the most important competitive forces in a shaving industry that has long been controlled by two entrenched companies. The deputy director of the FTC’s bureau of competition said in a statement that Harry’s, “has forced its rivals to offer lower prices, and more options, to consumers across the country.” All of the FTC’s commissioners voted in favor of the lawsuit, the latest sign that antitrust enforcers remain willing to challenge deals they believe could lead to higher prices for consumer staples.  Edgewell and Harry’s announced their deal last May, saying the companies were evaluating their options. Edgewell’s president and CEO said,  “We believe the combination of our two companies would bring together complementary capabilities for the benefit of all stakeholders, including customers.”  Harry’s had recently expanded from its online operations into brick-and-mortar stores, posing even more of a threat to powerhouse companies like Edgewell and Proctor & Gamble. It started selling products in Target stores in 2016 and recently began selling products at Walmart. Harry’s chose a sale to Edgewell over going public or staying independent.  The FTC signaled it would follow a two-tiered process to challenge the deal. The case is the latest in a multitude of merger challenges from the FTC.    ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Monday, February 3rd. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Is Kim Kardashian’s move into wholesale with Nordstrom a sign of the changing DTC times? In this episode, we explore how Kim, who has an impressive social media following and online presence, still needed Nordstrom to expand and grow her SKIMS brand.First, here are the latest headlines.Forever 21 Receives BidMonths after filing for bankruptcy, Forever 21 has a new bid from Authentic Brands and mall operators Simon Property and Brookfield. The $81 million dollar bid would serve as a baseline for an auction for Forever 21 and includes a breakup fee of $4.7 million dollars and expense reimbursement of $1 million dollars if the retailer accepts an alternate deal. The retailer proposed to the court a bid deadline of February 7th and an auction, if necessary, by February 10th.  Macy's Opening a New Concept StoreAccording to a press release, Macy’s will open what it calls a flexible retail store format in Southlake, Texas. The 20,000-foot store will be called Market by Macy’s. The new store’s space will host, “community-driven programming from cooking tutorials and book signings to crafting and fitness classes.” The new location will also debut two new exclusive Macy’s brands. The move indicates the retailer is taking new steps to develop store concepts, and to learn from the process, as it considers doing business on a much smaller scale.  Facebook Reports Increased Growth and RevenueFacebook reported a growing userbase and increasing quarterly revenue, capping a year of strength in its core advertising business even as expenses climbed. The social media giant’s revenue rose 25 percent to $21.1 billion dollars for the quarter, beating analyst expectations. Revenue for 2019 rose by nearly 27 percent. Profit for the fourth quarter also topped expectations, rising 7 percent to $7.35 billion dollars. The latest report extends a strong performance typical for the company even in the midst of social questions and government scrutiny.  Kim Kardashian’s Expansion Into Nordstrom Is A Sign Of The Changing DTC Times  Is Kim Kardashian’s move into Nordstrom a sign of the digitally-native times? When Kim launched SKIMS, her shapewear brand featuring a variety of diversified products in a broad range of sizes, early products sold out. Kim continued to promote the brand using her immense social presence, and the products continued to sell out as the brand restocked. SKIMS had the potential to be the defining brand for Kim, having more promise than her previous brands KKW Beauty and Fragrance, which were more opportunistic than unique.Earlier this year, Kim announced that the SKIMS brand would be expanding into 25 Nordstrom stores across America starting in early February, and would also be available online at Nordstrom.com. The move raises the question that if Kim Kardashian, who has a large social presence and earned media followings need Nordstrom, what about all the other digitally-native brands?  This isn’t the first time she or one of her family members has expanded into wholesale after hitting the online-only growth ceiling. Her sister Kylie was the first to move into Ulta after three years with Kylie Cosmetics, and Kim soon followed suit with KKW Beauty. Then after Kylie launched Kylie Skin, she moved into Ulta only five months after the brand’s debut. Now, five months after launching SKIMS, Kim is entering Nordstrom.The reasons she’d make the move toward wholesale are simple. An apparel brand that offers such a broad range of sizing means that customers are going to return a lot of items as they try to find their fit. Kim’s social media followers are also potentially saturated by the marketing of Kardashian products, while the Nordstrom audience is likely wealthier and older than most of Kim’s following. Not to mention that digitally-native brands can only get so big before they have to expand into other channels to avoid high digital marketing spend.  If Kim Kardashian needs Nordstrom to grow her business, there’s a good chance that every consumer brand could benefit from the strategy.  ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Friday, January 31st. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Amazon has reported a sales boom, one that executives say was caused by the roll-out of one-day free shipping for Prime members.First, here are the latest headlines.UPS and Waymo Piloting Autonomous Package Pick UpUPS and Waymo, a self-driving vehicle company, are partnering to launch a package transportation pilot according to an announcement. Waymo’s autonomous vans will pick up packages from UPS stores in the Phoenix area, and deliver them to nearby UPS sorting facilities. A trained driver will be present in the vehicles at all times. Scott Price, the UPS chief strategy and transformation officer said in a statement that the pilot would assist with,  “getting packages to our sortation facilities sooner and more frequently, while also creating an opportunity for later drop-offs for next-day service.” The companies plan to use the pilot to explore ways they can incorporate autonomous vehicles at scale and potentially work together long-term. The partnership comes at a time when last-mile delivery is in demand and more firms are looking to autonomous vehicles to cut down on labor costs and improve driver retention.  Sale of Victoria's Secret May Be LikelyA sale of Victoria’s Secret in the midst of declining sales looks more likely. The private equity firm, Sycamore Partners, is reportedly in talks with L Brands founder and CEO, Les Wexner, to buy Victoria’s Secret according to the Wall Street Journal. The publication previously reported that L Brands was in talks to sell off the brand and that Wexner was set to step down, except to retain his seat on the board as chairman. There’s an existing relationship between L Brands and Sycamore, with the latter taking a controlling stake about eight years ago in the company’s Mast Global Fashion sourcing and logistics unit, and in 2015, took over the rest as L Brands spun it off into a separate company.  Nordstrom Opening Apparel Resale ShopNordstrom is diving deeper into the resale industry. The company announced they were opening an apparel resale shop, called See You Tomorrow, at its New York flagship store and online. The assortment will include women’s apparel, shoes, and handbags, along with men’s apparel, accessories, and shoes. The shop will be stocked in part with cleaned, repaired, and refurbished the Nordstrom Quality Center, which processes returned and damaged merchandise. Another source will be customers, who can exchange their own used clothing at the New York flagship for gift cards they can use at Nordstrom. With its take on resale, Nordstrom may be working hard to prove the viability of department stores during a time when most department stores are struggling.  Amazon Reports Sales Boom After The Rollout Of One-Day Prime DeliveryWhile many doubted the profitability of  integrating one-day shipping, Amazon just reported that it actually fueled a sales boom. The e-commerce giant reported that fourth-quarter net product sales rose year over year to $50.5 billion dollars from $44.7 billion dollars. For the full year, net product sales rose to $106.4 billion dollars from $141.9 billion dollars in 2018. Net online store sales in the quarter rose 15 percent year over year. Third-party seller services rose more than 30 percent. Executives said that the move to deliver items in one day helped drive those sales.  The roll-out of one-day shipping had many thinking the added expense for fulfillment would cut into the giant’s profits. Amazon instead answered with profits soaring 8 percent $3.3 billion dollars. The e-commerce giant continues to innovate and drive consumer expectations as it implements difficult to carry out strategies, and is challenging many other retailers to rise to the challenge. Its consumer-focused initiatives have set a new precedent that will be hard to follow.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Wednesday, January 29th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Apple reported a jump in revenue after experiencing slowing iPhone sales the prior year.  First, here are the latest headlines.Pinterest Introduces AR-Based ServicePinterest is introducing a new augmented reality-based service called Try On. Customers can open the Pinterest camera in search and find different lipstick shades to try on virtually, and swipe up to shop. They can try on various products virtually, save items for later, or buy directly through the retailer’s site. The Try On tool doesn’t use digital skin smoothing or image-altering effects, making the AR experience more realistic. Per an announcement, the company said they integrated the tool with a skin tone range feature to help find lip shades that match various skin tones and make the experience more inclusive. Estée Lauder, Sephora, bareMinerals, Neutrogena, and Urban Decay are among the first beauty brands that people can buy from with Pinterest’s new shoppable AR feature.  1-800-Flowers Enhancing Omnichannel Experience1-800-Flowers.com is rolling out enhancements across its digital, mobile, and voice channels. The specialty gift retailer is attempting to streamline its omnichannel shopping experience as Valentine’s Day approachings. The new features they’re unveiling include an intelligent virtual assistant, which combines AI and human interaction. The President of the company said, “As customers prepare to find the perfect gift for their Valentine, we are pleased to introduce new and unique ways to interact with 1-800-Flowers.com while providing a significantly enhanced shopping journey.”  Former Victoria's Secret Vet New J. Crew CEOJ. Crew is tapping a former Victoria’s Secret vet as CEO. J. Crew Group, which runs the J. Crew and Madewell brands, announced that Jan Singer will join the company as CEO of the J. Crew brand and a member of the board, effective early February. According to a company press release, she will be responsible for, “all aspects of the J. Crew and J. Crew Factory brands and businesses.” Singer has more than 25 years of experience, most recently serving as CEO for two years at Victoria’s Secret. She was also previously CEO of Spanx and a Nike executive.  Apple Emerges From Sales Slump With Record RevenueAfter experiencing a slump in iPhone sales last year, Apple has risen again. The tech company posted record revenue and a return to profit growth in the latest quarter behind strong sales of its flagship smartphone as well as apps and AirPods. The tech giant reported revenue rose 9 percent in the December quarter to $91.82 billion dollars, driven by growing sales of devices and services connected to the iPhone such as smartwatches and streaming-TV subscriptions. Sales of iPhones, which account for more than half of its revenue, rose 8 percent to $55.96 billion dollars. Executives at Apple said they expect the sales growth to continue in the current quarter.The company’s latest numbers marks its return to form, after failing to report a quarterly revenue record last year for the first time since the iPhone’s 2007 release. Last year, the company also slashed its guidance for the first time in more than 15 years. Apple pulled its way out of the slump by introducing new services and accessories that would appeal to the owners of the 900 million iPhones worldwide. The addition of a credit card and video-subscription service helped increase sales of services 17 percent in the latest quarter, the company said. The introduction of AirPods Pro also helped fuel a 37 percent surge in the company’s wearables business, which also includes smartwatches and iPods.  Mr. Cook said in a statement that the number of active Apple devices worldwide rose 1.5 billion from 1.4 billion a year ago. The 7 percent increase represents a slow down in growth from prior years but indicates that Apple is still continuing to increase its customer base as it aims to sell more services.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Monday, January 27th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.With the rise of e-commerce has come the rise of counterfeit goods. The U.S. is now vowing to crack down on those counterfeit goods.First, here are the latest headlines.David's Bridal Introduces Digital Wedding Planning ToolsDavid’s Bridal introduced a series of digital wedding planning tools, including a vision board, an interactive wedding checklist, and a customizable website, according to a company press release. The launch of the new digital tools comes after David’s Bridal named its first chief digital experience officer and introduced its virtual assistant chatbot, Zoey. The CEO of David’s Bridal said in a statement, “We are relentless in our pursuit of becoming the most relevant, digitally modern, and innovative company to serve today’s modern bride.” Grubhub to Launch Online and App Ordering for PickupGrubhub announced Thursday it was launching Ultimate, which uses software and hardware to allow restaurants to offer customers the ability to order their food online or through an app for pickup. Founder and CEO, Matt Maloney, said the food delivery company is focusing on marketing the technology to small and medium-sized restaurants. Ultimate is being tested at Chik-fil-A locations, Ohio State University, and more than 100 restaurants in the New York City and Chicago areas, according to the company. Industry-wide orders for pickup account for more than 50 percent of takeout sales, and 58 percent of all digital orders, according to the NPD Group. According to Morgan Stanley, $350 billion is spent every year on food purchased from restaurants. For Grubhub, providing a new tool for pickup orders could help it grab more market share.Amazon Becoming Contender in Streaming Music WorldSpotify and Apple are typically considered the giants in the music streaming world, but Amazon seems to be trying to push its way to the top. The e-commerce giant announced that its streaming service – Prime Music and Music Unlimited – had reached 55 million customers globally, across both its free and paid services. The company also said that Amazon Music Unlimited, its paid tier option, grew by more than 50 percent last year alone. Amazon and Apple have both kept subscriber numbers close to the vest. Apple’s last confirmed subscriber number was said to have surpassed 60 million in June of 2019. Spotify, however, has regularly updated its numbers, which makes sense considering music is its only business, unlike Amazon and Apple. Spotify said it ended the quarter with 113 million paid subscribers, up 31 percent year-over-year. Streaming music presents a big opportunity, with music revenue in the U.S. alone growing to $5.4 billion dollars during the first half of 2019. Amazon wants its share of the market, and the e-commerce giant has both the power and resources to make it happen. Apple and Spotify will not only have to contend with the other, but also worry about Amazon’s rise in the music streaming space.  U.S.Homeland Security Is Cracking Down On E-Commerce CounterfeitsWith the rise of e-commerce has come the rise of counterfeit goods. The U.S. is now vowing to crack down on those counterfeit goods. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans released a 54-page report promising to strengthen scrutiny, enforcement, and punishment to tackle what it calls a growing problem in e-commerce. In a foreword, the acting department secretary, Chad Wolf, wrote that, “illicit goods trafficked to American consumers by e-commerce platforms and online third-party marketplaces threaten public health and safety, as well as national security."  The announcement of a federal crackdown on counterfeits comes as Amazon, in particular, has struggled to control fakes and unauthorized sales on its platform. The e-commerce giant has tried to push back on its apparent counterfeit problem, saying that the company has blocked more than 3 billion suspicious listings and prevented more than a million suspected counterfeit goods sellers from listing products.  But, as the government’s report notes, the problem is only getting worse, and Amazon is feeling the pressure as big-name brands, including Ikea and Nike, increasingly leave the platform after establishing storefronts on its Marketplace. That will only continue to happen as brands increasingly feel a loss of control and Amazon struggles to keep counterfeits at bay.The issue with counterfeits goes beyond tarnishing brand names. The American Apparel & Footwear Association’s CEO Steve Lamar pointed out in an emailed statement that, “This is about more than just lost sales and damaged reputation...Counterfeit products that are unknowingly purchased...can put Americans in direct contact with materials that do not meet federal safety regulations, support unsafe working conditions, or enable illegitimate factories to ignore sustainable best practices. It is past time that we attacked this pervasive problem head-on.”  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Friday, January 24th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Macy’s has partnered with wedding website, Zola, as the department store retailer tries to balance brick-and-mortar and e-commerce sales.First, here are the latest headlines.NYC Council Bans Cashless Retail and Food EstablishmentsThe New York City Council passed a ban on cashless retail and food establishments on Thursday, according to the council’s website. The bill prohibits businesses from refusing to accept cash and from charging customers who pay cash a higher price than cashless customers. New York City is the largest U.S. city to have approved a ban on cashless stores. Similar bans passed in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and San Francisco in 2019. Chicago and Washington D.C. are considering similar policies as well. The growing trend among local governments to ban cashless locations could slow the trajectory of the movement toward digital payments. Within the next decade, only   one in 10 transactions are expected to be made with cash.  Target Partners with Unilever and Sundial Brands on Exclusive LineUnilever and its Sundial Brands subsidiary have launched a “line of textured hair care products for Gen Z multicultural women,” exclusive to Target, the companies announced in a press release. With another exclusive label to complement its private label strategy, Target continues to demonstrate merchandising and branding savvy that places it ahead of the pack in retail. In Unilever and Sundial, Target has partners that can develop products for women of color with specialized knowledge and supply them at scale. The line also furthers the retailer’s success in beauty, an area where Target slowly but meaningfully appears to be taking share from the likes of drugstores. The company is targeting its customer well, and not just in catering to Gen Z. Its development of the new line goes beyond “purpose marketing,” to bring products to market that are in demand by a group of consumers often neglected by mainstream retailers.Goldman Sachs CEO to Require "Diverse" Boards for Companies Going PublicThe demand for diversity is taking a front seat in retail. Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon told CNBC that starting this year, his investment bank wouldn’t help companies go public without at least one “diverse” board member. Solomon preceded his statement by saying that, over the last four years, the performance of public offerings of U.S. companies with at least one female director is “significantly better” than those without. He noted that about 60 companies in the U.S. and Europe have gone public recently with all white, male boards. In his statement, he said, “Look, we might miss some businesses, but in the long run, this I think is the best advice for companies that want to drive premium returns for their shareholders over time.”  Macy’s And Zola Team Up As The Department Store Retailer Switches Up Its StrategyMacy’s and wedding site, Zola, have launched a partnership that enables couples to register with Macy’s for gifts across the retailer’s bedding, bath, and home goods through Zola, according to a press release. Zola users can also shop for more than 2,000 Macy’s private label or exclusive products, per Zola’s statement. In a company statement, Zola noted that they developed its technology to allow Macy’s to fulfill the orders placed on the platform. Macy’s partnership with Zola comes as the retailer undergoes substantial change. The department store is has been making changes both on and offline.Back in September, the retailer announced its effort to offer same-day delivery for a limited time over the holidays. Macy’s changes come as it tries to balance e-commerce and brick-and-mortar sales. Its Zola partnership presents the retailer with a way to reach a new digital customer base, much like similar efforts at Nordstrom. Macy’s senior director of business development said in a statement, “By partnering with Zola, we’re adding another way to bring Macy’s best private and exclusive products toe very couple wishing to say I do.”  ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow.   

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, January 23rd. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Netflix is feeling the effects of fierce competition in the streaming space. As players like Disney Plus and Apple TV+ enter the space, Netflix is seeing slower growth in subscriber numbers.  First, here are the latest headlines.Tesla First $100 Billion Publicly Listed U.S. CarmakerTesla became the first $100 billion publicly listed U.S. carmaker after a jump in its share price during after-hours trading, according to Reuters. If its valuation — more than Ford and General Motors combined — lasts for one-month and six-month averages, Musk will be granted a huge payout. The company's stock has more than doubled in three months, thanks in part to a surprise quarterly profit, higher production at its China factory, and better than expected annual car deliveries.Express Closing 100 Stores by 2022Express said on Wednesday it would shutter about 100 of its stores by 2022, including nine already closed last year, 31 by the end of this month, and 35 by the end of January 2021. The company as of November 2019 operated more than 600 stores. The company will also aim for savings through negotiations as store leases come up for renewal, according to the CFO. In a press release, CEO Tim Baxter also presented a turnaround strategy that goes beyond closures and cost-cutting initiatives, including a new loyalty program and store credit card that will debut this fall. The company said it will also expand its in-store pickup service for online orders, a strategy that has proved increasingly effective for retailers.  Skims Will Be Available at 25 Nordstrom StoresKim Kardashian West’s shapewear brand, Skims, will launch in select Nordstrom locations on February 5th, according to a social media post from the department store. Per the company’s website, Skims will be available at 25 Nordstrom stores as well as on nordstrom.com. The move pushes the department store further into a direct-to-consumer strategy. The retailer has also recently partnered with DTC brands Glossier, luggage brand Away, and sustainable fashion company Everlane.  Netflix In The Age Of The Streaming WarsNetflix downplayed concerns over competition in its Q4 2019 earnings report. Netflix wrote that, “despite the debut of Disney Plus and the launch of Apple TV, our viewing per membership grew both globally and in the U.S. on a year over year basis, consistent with recent quarters.”  Netflix added 8.8 million net subscribers in the fourth quarter, on par with the 8.8 million added last year and ahead of the company’s internal forecast of 7.6 million. But Netflix also acknowledged that growth in the U.S. and Canada is slowing down. The streaming service added just 550,000 thousand net subscribers in the region this quarter, and just 420,000 thousand in the U.S., down from 1.75 million the same quarter one year ago.  Netflix cited, “U.S. competitive launches,” as one of the primary factors for slowing growth. Netflix is also factoring in competition to its guidance, noting that elevated churn levels in the U.S. led the company to project net adds of 7 million globally for the first quarter of 2020, down from 9.6 million in the first quarter of 2019. Since NBCUniversal’s Peacock and AT&T’s HBO Max haven’t launched yet, it’s possible Netflix may be preparing for a more consistent decline of U.S. subscribers. The effect of increasing competition will be interesting to follow where Netflix is concerned. If the service can continue to beat back rivals, it should be able to sustain its lofty valuation over legacy media companies.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Wednesday, January 22nd. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Amazon has filed trademarks for Amazon Pharmacy, signaling the potential for the retail giant to move into selling prescription drugs outside the U.S.  First, here are the latest headlines.Payless ShoeSource Emerges from Chapter 11Payless ShoeSource has emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, with a renewed focus on international operations. The company’s new managers said the U.S. is the, “biggest growth opportunity,” but didn’t specify their plans on how to achieve growth there. Payless closed all of its U.S. stores last year but continues to operate in Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.  DoorDash Now Leader in Digital Food DeliveryDoorDash’s growth in 2019 allowed it to edge past Grubhub to become the leader in digital food delivery, according to data from analytics firm Second Measure. Doordash captured a third of all digital food delivery sales, or 33 percent, in the U.S. market last year, putting it on top of Grubhub, which had 32 percent of sales in the category. Uber Eats followed with a 20 percent share and was trailed by Postmates, with 10 percent. Digital food delivery is projected to be a $467 billion dollar business by 2025, with food delivery sales growing 13 percent or more each of the past five years.  Starbucks to Become "Resource Positive"Starbucks has announced its plans to become, “resource positive,” when it comes to carbon, water, and waste. The coffee chain set preliminary goals for 2030 that included cutting carbon emissions in half, conserving or replenishing half of the water taken for coffee production, and reducing half of its waste. The company plans to formalize those goals by March 2021. The coffee company is among a growing number of businesses announcing sustainability goals as consumers grow increasingly concerned about climate change. BlackRock announced a week ago its plans to overhaul its investing strategy to make sustainability the new standard, and on Thursday, Microsoft said it’s trying to remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits by 2030. Starbucks CEO, Kevin Johnson, said, “By embracing a longer-term economic, equitable, and planetary value proposition for our company, we will create greater value for all stakeholders.”Amazon Files Trademarks For Amazon PharmacyAmazon has filed to trademark Amazon Pharmacy in Canada, the U.K., and Australia, signaling a potential move into selling prescription drugs outside the U.S. According to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office website, Amazon filed for the patent on January 9th. The status is listed as pre-formalized. The trademark also lists other areas that Amazon Pharmacy could move into including surgical, medical dental instruments and pharmaceutical, as well as medical and veterinary preparations.  Amazon began its move into the drug space in 2017 when it started to explore whether to build out a team. The following year, the retail giant acquired PillPack, a start-up that specializes in delivering medications to the home, signaling an early focus on the U.S. prescription drug market. The Amazon Pharmacy branding is relatively new. PillPack notified its customers at the end of 2019 that it would be including references to the brand in its printed materials and on its labels.  Filing a trademark doesn’t necessarily mean that international expansion will happen in the near future, but it does suggest Amazon will eventually go global, which is in line with its typical business strategy.  ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Monday, January 20th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Rent the Runway is continuing to expand its partnership with Nordstrom. The companies are piloting a new Rent the Runway service at select Nordstrom Rack locations.  First, here are the latest headlines.Facebook Will Not Sell Ads on WhatsAppFacebook is backing off its plan to sell ads in WhatsApp, a retreat from a plan that drove the creators of the popular app to resign more than a year ago, according to people familiar with the matter. The shift marks a detour in the social media giant’s plan to monetize WhatsApp, which it bought in 2014 for $22 billion dollars. WhatsApp is among popular Facebook services, along with Instagram, Messenger, and the core Facebook platform, that attract a combined 2.8 billion monthly users.  Disney+ Downloads Topping List in Q4Disney+ has done incredibly well since its launch in November 2019. According to new data from Sensor Tower, which focused on app trends in the final quarter of 2019, Disney+ was downloaded more than 30 million times in Q4 2019, more than double its nearest competitor, TikTok. Those total downloads were counted across both the Apple App Store and Google Play, with the App Store accounting for over 18 million of the Disney+ downloads and Google Play accounting for more than 12 million. On the App Store, Disney+ beat out Youtube and TikTok for the number one spot, after YouTube held the top spot for the past four quarters. In terms of revenue, Disney+ grossed more than $50 million dollars in its first 30 days. The Disney+ app was also able to reach 71 percent of Netflix’s peak revenue in December.  Bose Closing All Retail StoresBose announced it will close all 119 retail stores in North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia in the coming months according to a company statement. The company will offer severance and outplacement assistance to impacted employees but declined to state the exact number of workers that will be affected. Bose pulling back on its brick-and-mortar presence to focus on its e-commerce presence, stating that its noise-canceling headphones, wireless sport earbuds, portable speakers, and smart speakers are, “increasingly purchased through e-commerce.” The company’s vice president of global sales noted the change comes as they’re focusing on what customers need and where they need it.  Rent The Runway Expands Partnership With Nordstrom Through New PilotRent the Runway is piloting a new offering, called Rent the Runway Revive, in select Nordstrom Rack locations. According to an email sent to Rent the Runway customers, Revive will be available at Rack locations for a limited time only and give customers access to, “gently worn, ready-to-wear styles starting at $28 dollars.” The new offering is part of an expanding partnership with the two companies. Rent the Runway already has drop-off locations at several Nordstrom and Nordstrom Local locations. The companies tested the service in Los Angeles over the summer and expanded it in November. This latest move gives Rent the Runway a powerful off-price outlet to sell its older inventory, while possibly giving Nordstrom Rack stores a small boost of foot traffic as well.  While they’re deepening their relationship with Nordstrom, it’s not the only company Rent the Runway has in its sights. In 2018, the company partnered with WeWork on launching drop-off spots at the co-working company’s locations and also announced a collaboration with West Elm for a home goods rental service. Just this December, Rent the Runway also announced a partnership with W Hotels, offering a curated Closet Concierge service for traveling customers to rent clothes while traveling for business or on vacation. The rental company hit unicorn status in March of 2019 and has since expanded into kid’s rentals. Selling at Nordstrom Rack locations is just one of many recent decisions geared toward offering more services to its customers, and more convenient places to find Rent the Runway.  ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Friday, January 17th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Gap Inc. announced it no longer plans to spin off Old Navy brand following softer business performance and abrupt departure of two top company executives.First, here are the latest headlines.Smart Speaker Ownership Growing in U.S.According to a December 2019 survey by NPR and Edison Research, smart speaker ownership grew to 24 percent of the U.S. adult population, about 60 million people, from 21 percent a year earlier. The study also found that smart speaker households contain an average of 2.6 devices, up from 2.3 the year before. The number of smart speakers in U.S. households climbed 32 percent to 157 million in 2019. With the growing number of consumers with smart speakers, the new technology presents an opportunity for marketers, while speaker sales begin to surge.Google Parent Alphabet Hits $1 Trillion Market Cap  Google’s parent company, Alphabet, has hit $1 trillion dollars in market capitalization, making it the fourth U.S. company to hit the milestone. Apple was the first to hit the market cap in 2018, then Microsoft and Amazon followed. Apple and Microsoft are still valued at more than a trillion dollars while Amazon has since fallen below the mark. With a roughly $620 billion dollar valuation, Facebook appears to be the next likely trillion-dollar tech contender.  NBC Planning Expansive Marketing for Peacock LaunchNBC Universal is planning an expansive marketing rollout for its streaming service, Peacock. According to a person familiar with the matter, NBC Universal’s spending on its Peacock campaign will likely exceed $300 million dollars in its first year. Launch sponsors, which include Unilever and Target, have agreed to promote the streaming service on their websites, in their own media, and in stores, the person said. Sponsors have also committed hundreds of millions of advertising dollars long-term to Peacock. The streaming service will be available on April 15th for select Comcast customers and July 15th for everyone.  Gap Inc. Nixes Plan To Spin Off Old NavyGap Inc. announced that its plans to split off Old Navy into a separate company are off. Analysts had grown skeptical of the separation plan devised by longtime CEO, Art Peck, last year. Robert Fisher took over as interim president and CEO after Peck’s abrupt departure in November and many observers expected the split to be canceled then. But the board reiterated the plan the next day.  In a company press release, Fisher stated, “The plan to separate was rooted in our commitment to value creation from our portfolio of iconic brands.” He also noted that while the objectives of the separation remain relevant, the board found that the cost and complexity of splitting into two companies, combined with softer business performance, made it difficult to benefit from a separation.  In his statement, Fisher also said the company has learned from the process and intends to, “operate Gap Inc. in a more rigorous and transformational manner that empowers our growth brands, Old Navy and Athleta, and appropriately focuses on profitability for Banana Republic and Gap brand.” Alongside the announcement of the nixed plans, the company revealed that Neil Fiske, president and CEO of the Gap brand, is departing.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you Monday. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, January 16th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft have waged a not so silent war on taxis. The effect can especially be felt in Los Angeles, but now the city and taxis are trying to evolve to compete with the ride-hailing services.  First, here are the latest headlines.Retailers Rediscovering Importance of Physical StoresAfter the National Retail Federation’s Big Show, one thing was clear. Many retailers have a newfound appreciation for the value of their physical stores, but also many are struggling with the limits of the online channel. A principal at venture capital firm Comcast Ventures said, “The pendulum has swung.” He noted it has become easier to launch a direct-to-consumer company than to sustain or grow one. While some companies are seeking further investment on the public market, like Casper who recently filed for an IPO, other brands like Billie and Dollar Shave Club were acquired by consumer product goods conglomerates. The store experience is valuable for not only providing in-person, touch-and-feel experiences for shoppers, it also provides marketing that so far online search or sites have not been able to match. The trend seems to indicate that just as e-commerce has become a given for traditional retailers, it now seems like a must to maximize and measure the value of connections and discovery possible only in-store.  Target Sales Fall ShortTarget, who has posted strong quarters and been considered a standout in retail, fell short over the holidays. Target revealed its same-store sales during November and December were up just 1.4 percent, compared with growth of 5.7 percent the year before. Target said it found strength in apparel and beauty, while electronics, toys, and parts of its home business didn’t perform as well as they’d hoped. CEO Brian Cornell said in a blog post, “While we knew this season was going to be challenging, it was even more challenging than we expected.” Cornell also said that while Target faced challenges in November and December in key categories, they were maintaining their guidance for fourth-quarter earnings per share because of the durability of the company’s business model.Secondhand Beauty Industry GrowingYou’ve no doubt heard all about the secondhand apparel craze that has become a booming industry, but what about the secondhand beauty industry? Online platforms like Poshmark and Glambot are normalizing makeup and skincare reselling by using technology that authenticates, sanitizes, and repackages products. The process is just like clothing resale platforms where customers send in lightly used items and, if approved, sell them to other shoppers. Beauty resale allows fast beauty consumers to remain on-trend while solving the consumption problem that fast beauty created.  Los Angeles Taxis Try To Get With The Ride-Hailing TimesRide-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft have waged a not so silent war on taxis. The effect can especially be felt in Los Angeles. According to Los Angeles World Airports, which operates LAX, taxis handled just 22 percent of pickups at the airport for the first three quarters of 2019, with ride hails claiming the rest. The divide in numbers was similar throughout the rest of the city, with the Los Angeles Department of Transportation estimating taxi business was down 75 percent since 2012, the year Uber first rolled into town. Now, the taxis of Los Angeles are fighting back. Instead of calling an individual company to request a cab, passengers will be assigned rides through a centralized dispatch that connects all the cabs in the city. The taxis can be requested with an app or phone call and passengers will know the cost of their rides before getting into the car. Meters will be modernized and cabs’ typical garish colors will be optional. Jarvis Murray, an administrator with the city Transportation Department said, “We want to give them an opportunity to be able to retain and add customers, to be innovative and nimble.”  Dr. Anne Brown compared taxis and ride-hail services when she was a researcher with the Institute of Transporation Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles in 2018. She found the average cost for an Uber or Lyft was less than when using a taxi. She also found that in 10 percent of the trips, taxi drivers traveled twice as many miles as necessary. After interviewing students who had assisted with the research, most said the unreliability of taxis didn’t end once they were in the car. They didn’t know how much the trip would be and there wasn’t always a recourse if they were unsatisfied with the driver. With Uber and Lyft, they could complain and get their money back.It’s these issues that Los Angeles is trying to address with its new taxi permit system. Dr. Brown said taxis have tried to innovate. Many companies have developed their own apps, but they work only for that individual fleet and may not operate in the area where a customer needs a ride. At least one developer has tried to bring all the cabs’ apps under the same umbrella to operate more like Uber or Lyft, but the app doesn’t work well, she said. The findings bring up the question: why not let the taxi system fail if Ubers and Lyfts are superior options?Dr. Brown said, “Taxis are this legacy service...They’re a really important mode for so many travelers.” They’re important for travelers without cars or don’t have the necessary smartphone or debit or credit card to use a ride-hail app. Dr. Brown noted that taxis were used most often by the city’s lowest-income people, who pay with cash.  It remains to be seen how the city’s attempt to modernize the taxi industry will stack up against services like Uber and Lyft who have successfully disrupted the industry.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, January 16th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.H&M debuted two new innovative recycling bins for shoppers to drop their unwanted clothes and see the difference they’re making.First, here are the latest headlines.Visa Buying PlaidIn a deal worth a whopping $5.3 billion dollars, payments giant Visa is buying start-up Plaid the companies announced on Monday. Plaid’s API software lets start-ups connect to users’ bank accounts. Among Plaid’s high-profile customers is the popular payment app, Venmo. As of December, Plaid said one in four people in the U.S. with bank accounts have connected to the company through an app. Visa and rival Mastercard were early investors in the start-up. In a call with investors, Visa’s CEO stated the deal was a long-term play and would position Visa for the next decade, saying, “This fits well, strategically...We’re excited about new businesses and the ability for this to accelerate our revenue growth over time.”  Walmart Adding More RobotsWalmart will add shelf-scanning robots to 650 more U.S. stores by the end of the summer. The new robots will join the ranks of Walmart’s increasingly automated workforce which also includes devices to scrub floors, unload trucks and gather online-grocery orders. They’re part of CEO Doug McMillon’s push to reduce costs, improve store performance, and gain credibility as a technology innovator. Walmart says the shelf-scanners can reduce tasks that once took as long as two weeks into a twice-daily routine. The potential savings are worrying many retail employees, with the robots often referred to as, “the job stealers,” but Walmart has constantly claimed that its robots lead to the redeployment of employees to less mundane roles, not job eliminations. However, its fleet of robots is growing and getting smarter, marking a new age of retail technology and the disruption of how ordinary tasks and processes are completed.Bath & Body Works Experiencing Consistent Sales GrowthBath & Body Works has reported 40 quarters of consistent sales growth. The L Brands owned company’s success signals that some brands are able to navigate the slow decline of mall traffic and continue to thrive. Even as other retailers have struggled in malls, the brand’s consistency and sense of discovery have continued to make it a destination. Even if Sephora or Ulta stores are nearby, Bath & Body Work’s accessible price point is simpler and more attainable than a multi-brand beauty chain while still being more upscale than a Walmart or Walgreens.  H&M Utilizes Innovation For Sustainability InitiativesH&M is raising the bar on their apparel recycling initiative with new smart bins. The retailer, which has been accepting unwanted clothing from all brands at its stores since 2013, just debuted two smart collection boxes at its flagship store on Fifth Avenue. The bins house a digital scale and feature integrated digital screens. As shoppers deposit their bag of unwanted clothes, the digital screen displays the weight of the donation, along with a message thanking shoppers for making a difference. The screen then displays a QR code that customers can scan for a 15 percent discount.  The code also directs shoppers to a website outlining H&M’s sustainability efforts and how their donations make a difference. For example, for every 50 pounds of donated clothing, H&M plants a tree through One Tree Planted. The retailer has a goal of collecting 5 million pounds of apparel and planting 100,000 trees by the end of 2020, according to the company. H&M’s business development project manager of North America said, “This project quantifies the sustainability impact our customers are having in real-time.” H&M will expand the initiative to stores overseas in 2021.  The retailer’s focus on sustainability is on par with the shifting consumer trends, particularly among younger generations, with a survey from Nielson reporting that 81 percent of global respondents feel strongly that companies should help improve the environment. Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen X were among the most supportive.    ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Tuesday, January 14th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.According to Women’s Wear Daily, Amazon is working on its own luxury apparel platform. The move would be a far cry from the current trajectory for the retailer, who has mostly sold generic brands through third-party sellers.First, here are the latest headlines.PVH Planning to Sell NikeApparel conglomerate, PVH, announced plans to sell its Speedo North America swimwear business to Pentland Group for $170 million dollars. In a statement, the CEO of PVH said the move was strategic as the company works to optimize and streamline its portfolio and focus on its Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger brands. The companies have entered into a definitive agreement, and the deal is expected to close in the first quarter of PVH’s fiscal 2020 year according to a press release.  Peloton Store Base Could DoubleAccording to the senior vice president of Peloton retail, Jennifer Parker, the company’s store base could double over time. Peloton’s store base, which resembles showrooms where Peloton bikes and treadmills are displayed, currently stands at more than 80. That includes recent store openings in San Diego and Germany. Parker noted that the company is focused on opening locations in top tier malls. She also pointed to several factors behind the physical store push while some in retail continue to cut back. The showrooms would allow Peloton to collect data on customers and potential ones, which would help the company identify key trends and plan new products and services accordingly.  Kohl's CEO Says Amazon Partnership WorkingIn 2019, Kohl’s went all-in on Amazon when it announced it would expand the partnership to accept returns from the e-commerce giant al all of its stores. Despite recent questions about whether the partnership is working, Kohl’s CEO defended the strategy. At the National Retail Federation’s Big Show, she said, “Amazon is working, this returns program is working...We’re seeing the traffic, we’re getting the customer, we’re getting a younger customer. To what we expected, some of them are buying, you’re not getting 100 percent, but some of them are buying.” According to data from Earnest Research, Kohl’s stores participating in the Amazon returns program in Chicago saw revenue growth top 10 percent in 2018, compared to 5 percent at non-participating stores. But it’s still unclear whether the partnership will be enough to stem sales losses in its fourth quarter and full-year.Amazon Reportedly Planning Its Own Luxury Apparel PlatformAmazon is planning a luxury apparel platform that will first be introduced in the U.S., then expanded internationally. According to a report from Women’s Wear Daily, the retail giant is already working with 12 unnamed brands. Amazon is said to be building a warehouse in Arizona dedicated to the project and planning a $100 million dollar campaign to market it. If true, a move into luxury fashion would be a far cry from Amazon’s apparel trajectory so far. Despite significant moves to develop its own private-label clothing, the e-commerce giant, for the most part, sells generic brands, largely in basics and activewear, through its third-party sellers.The number of nonbranded or generic apparel items sold by Amazon in September 2019 grew 906 percent year over year, and    topped their ranking, according to research from Coresight. Amazon’s history with bigger names is decidedly mixed. Some, including Birkenstock and Nike, have joined, then left. Birkenstock cited counterfeit concerns, and Nike characterized the move as simply dropping a distribution partnership, though some analysts speculated the move came from the brand’s desire to have more control over its brand than Amazon now offers.  Amazon has apparently taken that note. Its luxury platform would give brands, “full control,” over their pages, including how much they sell and at what price, while providing access to Amazon’s fulfillment and customer service capabilities. This effort could boost Amazon’s take in the market, according to some analysts.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Monday, January 13th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Proctor & Gamble announced its plans to acquire DTC grooming startup, Billie. The acquisition is the latest in a string of P&G snapping up younger DTC brands and could help the company reach a younger audience of consumers.  First, here are the latest headlines.Lululemon Name Chief Brand OfficerLululemon named Nike veteran, Nikki Neuburger, as their first-ever Chief Brand Officer, effective January 20th. In addition to elevating the brand, she will be responsible for marketing, creative, communications and sustainability to “drive the company’s global brand and storytelling initiatives.” According to a press release, she spent 14 years at Nike, most recently as global vice president of Nike Running, and also oversaw the direction of the Nike Membership division. For the past two years, she has served as the global head of marketing for Uber Eats. Lululemon’s CEO, Calvin McDonald said, “Her years of experience in the athletic industry, paired with her deep expertise in digital marketing, consumer insights, and brand creative, will be instrumental as we build upon our momentum and deliver on our Power of Three growth strategy.”  Casper Files IPOOnline startup, Casper, filed for an initial public offering on Friday. According to the filing, the price range of the initial public offering price has yet to be determined. Casper reported $312.3 million dollars in revenue for the nine months ending in September 2019, up 20 percent from the year-ago period, and $67.4 million dollars in losses, a 4.9 percent increase from the previous year. The company also reported spending $423 million dollars on marketing expenses from 2016 to 2019. In March 2019, Casper officially achieved unicorn status after a $100 million dollar funding round placed the company’s valuation at $1.1 billion dollars. While the company is steadily reporting losses, Casper maintains there is still a tremendous amount of growth in the category, with a Frost & Sullivan Assessment forecasting the sleep economy will hit $585 billion dollars globally by 2024, with the U.S. representing $95 billion dollars of those sales.Target Creating Private Label Activewear BrandTarget put to bed months of speculation on Wall Street that it would partner with Nike, adidas, or Under Armour in 2020 for a collection of athletic clothing. Instead, Target will do what it does best and utilize its best in class private label supply chain. Later this month, Target later this month will debut a new athleticwear brand called All in Motion. The private label collection will include products like T-shirts, tank tops, pants, yoga mats, and more. Target says the apparel will feature technology comparable to premium activewear brands. The company also noted the majority of the products will boast sustainably sourced materials. The company believes All in Motion could be a billion-dollar sales brand within the first year.  Proctor & Gamble Plans To Acquire DTC Disruptor Brand, BillieProctor & Gamble announced its plans to acquire Billie, a direct-to-consumer maker of women’s shaving and personal care products. The acquisition will add to P&G’s growing number of female grooming brands that includes Venus and Braun and Joy, per an announcement. Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.  According to the announcement, the companies will combine consumer insights, digital capabilities, and innovation. Billie’s co-founders, Georgina Gooley and Jason Bravman, will continue to lead the company. Billie launched in 2017 as a subscription service that delivers a steady supply of women’s shaving products. Billie’s products include razors, shaving cream, body wash, and lotion.  P&G’s planned acquisition of Billie is part of the CPG giant’s effort to expand its share of the grooming market, which was previously on the decline amid the emergence of DTC brands like Billie and consumer habits shifting toward body-positive brands that offer convenience. Billie can help P&G reach a younger audience of consumers. The shaving startup is a DTC disruptor like Dollar Shave Club and Harry’s that took aim at P&G owned Gillette’s market dominance. By getting Billie into its fold, P&G could avoid the steady decline of market share experienced by Gillette.  ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Friday, January 10th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Bloomscapes has formed a partnership with West Elm, marking its first partnership with a major retailer. According to a company press release, Bloomscape products will be available on West Elm’s U.S. website.  First, here are the latest headlines.Forever 21 Relaunching International Online StoreForever 21 is relaunching its international online store in partnership with e-commerce platform, Global-e. The fashion retailer filed for bankruptcy in September, saying at the time it would close as many as 178 U.S. stores, along with most of its international stores in Europe and Asia in order to refocus on its U.S. and Latin American businesses. In a statement, Forever 21 President said the retailer has seen ongoing demand from customers in regions where it plans to exit. He went on to say, “E-commerce forms a large chunk of the profitable core of our operations and as part of our new global strategy, Forever 21 will leverage Global-e’s technology to offer international customers an outstanding online experience.“  Mega-mall Defying OddsMany people were skeptical about the long-awaited American Dream mega-mall in New Jersey opening this spring, but the mall seems to have defied the physical retail odds. Developers have leased almost 90 percent of the mall’s available 3.3 million square feet, a figure which rises to nearly 100 percent when leases under negotiation are included, according to a filing. All retail anchor stores have been spoken for, which is critical for malls since those locations are typically key in driving foot traffic. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, fewer than half of U.S. malls are expected to survive ongoing store closings, but American Dream has said it can beat the odds because of its attractions, including a Nickelodeon Universe park, an ice skating rink, and a ski slope, and its accessibility to New York City.  Sweetgreen Looking Beyond SaladSalad chain Sweetgreen wants to move beyond salads. The company recently opened its new 3.0 concept store in New York City and plans to double its store count in the next three years. The company has raised $350 million dollars in private capital, bringing its valuation to $1.6 billion dollars, which makes it the only restaurant unicorn. Sweetgreen currently operations 103 locations. While its 3.0 store received some positive feedback, other customers described their experience as confusing because of unclear pricing signage, too much merchandise, and long wait times. Mistakes are inevitable at the beginning of any venture, but Sweetgreen needs to beef-up its technological and operational capabilities if it wants to be known and valued as a tech company.  West Elm Forms Partnership With Plant Startup BloomscapeDirect-to-consumer plant company, Bloomscape, announced on Wednesday it formed a partnership with West Elm. The DTC brand said this marks its first partnership with a major retailer. According to a company press release, Bloomscape products will be available for purchase on West Elm’s U.S. website. The partnership follows a Series A funding round in 2019 in which the company raised $7.5 million dollars. The company has raised $9.2 million dollars to date, according to Crunchbase.  Bloomscape’s partnership with West Elm also underscores a growing trend, especially in the home goods segment. As the market gets more saturated, brands are being forced to expand outside of their initial product categories. Mattress brand, Casper, expanded into the electronics and drug categories in 2019 with the launch of a smart nightlight and CBD gummies. Bedding brand, Brooklinen, launched its own online marketplace called Spaces in October, which invites brand partners to sell on the platform.West Elm has also formed a variety of partnerships with brands in the past from furniture startup, Floyd, to smart home electronics company, Nest. For West Elm, the collaborations provide a relatively low-risk way of expanding and experimenting with different products and categories without having to develop the products in-house. In a statement about their partnership with Bloomscape., West Elm’s director of partnerships said, “Together, we can better serve our customers as they journey into designing and completing their homes.”Plants could prove to be a lucrative category to expand into. Along with Bloomscape, other startups like Urban Stems and The Sill have entered the space. According to National Gardening Association date cited by Bloomscape, houseplant sales have increased some 50 percent to $1.7 billion dollars in the past three years.    ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and lease us a review. We’ll see you Monday. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, January 9th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.As social commerce grows, Instagram is starting to establish itself as a shopping destination through new features and capabilities. Will 2020 see the rise of Instagram as one of the top shopping destinations for consumers and brands?First, here are the latest headlines.Goop Products Becoming Available in Sephora StoresGwyneth Paltrow’s popular lifestyle brand, Goop, will now feature products in Sephora stores. It’s the first time the wellness brand has partnered with another retailer to sell items like its vitamin chews and body scrubs. Until now, Goop was only available at its own stores, on its website, and at some independent beauty shops. Starting Tuesday, select Goop products will go live on Sephora’s website and on February 28th, Goop’s skin care line with be sold at select Sephora stores across the country.  The companies said other Goop products will launch at Sephora in the coming months. For Goop, partnering with Sephora should help put the brand in front of more people.Highsnobiety Launching First Pop-upStreetwear focused media brand, Highsnobiety, is taking its first step into physical retail as a standalone brand. The direct-to-consumer brand is partnering with London department store, Selfridges, to launch its Co.Lab pop-up that will be open through February 9th. Highsnobiety’s use of pop-ups will allow the brand to maintain relevance over time. Launching pop-ups will create a regular sense of novelty that encourages its fan base to shop both in-store and online.NBCUniversal Accelerating Single Ad Technology EffortsNBCUniversal said it is accelerating its efforts to create a single ad technology and sales infrastructure for marketers to run media plans across its TV and digital properties and across local, national, and global markets. The efforts center on One Platform, which will combine existing tools for advertisers to plan, schedule, optimize and measure video ad campaigns. Previously, NBCUniversal had separate tools for traditional linear TV and digital advertising, forcing it and its advertisers to combine orders manually. The news comes as TV networks try to update how they sell ads to better compete with digital media. NBCUniversal will announce a new global ad sales infrastructure in a few weeks as part of the One Platform rollout.The Rise of Instagram as a Shopping Destination for Consumers and BrandsAs brands and influencers have flocked to Instagram, the social media platform is starting to become a major direct-to-consumer sales channel. Instagram has continued to create and extend its shopping features to more companies, and social-savvy direct-to-consumer brands, many of which got their start on the platform, will no doubt take advantage of the tools. For consumers, the ability to shop various brands within one app would eliminate the impracticality of bouncing from one site to the next, placing orders for one product or category of products at a time. For brands, it would mean landing sales right at the consumers’ point of discovery.  Instagram is laying the groundwork to be a powerhouse DTC shopping destination, perfecting shopping features like Buyer Protection before attempting to scale them. In 2019, Instagram also debuted a number of shopping tools, including in-app Checkout, Shopping from Creators, and a drop countdown to build hype before a product release.  The product lead for Instagram Shopping said  “Our goal is to become a leading mobile e-commerce destination that helps you shop your interest, inclusive of when shopping is your interest.” The goal isn’t farfetched, with over 80 percent of Instagram users already saying the app helps them make purchasing decisions. And according to 2018 data from Adobe, social media was the fastest-growing driver of e-commerce referrals from 2016 to 2018.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Wednesday, January 8th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Ikea is the latest in a string of retailers who will no longer sell on Amazon.  First, here are the latest headlines.New Study Underscores Importance of Customer Wait TimesBuy online, pick-up in-store services are becoming a popular method for consumers in a hurry and an increasingly important strategy for retailers. But the amount of time they have to wait to get their order in-store makes all the difference in their likelihood to return. According to a new study, customers who wait less than two minutes to get their buy online, pick-up in-store orders are more than 4 times as likely to return to the store than customers kept waiting for 10 minutes or more. In fact, customers who are kept waiting 10 minutes or more are less than 20 percent likely to come back, underscoring the importance of wait time as a whole.  Nordstrom Stock UpgradedNordstrom is officially separating from the department store pack. J.P. Morgan upgraded the stock to neutral and boosted its price target to $41 dollars from $26 dollars per share. The analysts cited inventory improvements, fewer markdowns, recovery in its off-price Rack unit, accelerating e-commerce and buy online, pick up in-store, and its location in mostly premium malls, among other factors, for the upgrade. Analysts also called the Nordstrom Local expansion along with its new flagship in New York City, a potential accelerator with a “market halo effect.” While the year won’t be smooth sailing for any department store, including Nordstrom, the retailer’s strategies and the diminished presence of Barneys, Hudson’s Bay Co., and Lord & Taylor could present Nordstrom with a “multi-year market share opportunity.”Hudson's Bay Reaches Deal to Go PrivateHudson’s Bay Co has reached a new deal to be taken private by an investor group led by the retailer’s chairman, Richard Baker, the retailer announced late on Friday. The new agreement is for CA$11 dollars a share, an increase from a previous offer of C$10.30 dollars a share. Supporting the agreement this time is Catalyst Capital Group, Hudson’s Bay’s largest minority shareholder and an opponent to the previous deal. Hudson’s Bay plans to hold a special shareholder meeting in February to vote on the deal.  Ikea To No Longer Sell On Amazon Marketplace In The U.S.Ikea will stop selling on Amazon after a U.S. pilot launched in 2018 to sell its Smart Lighting products ended. A spokesperson from the company said, “We are curious and keen on exploring new areas to get new insights on how to reach and serve more of the many people.” The announcement from Ikea is the latest in a string of brands leaving the Amazon marketplace, with many citing lack of control and counterfeits as their reason for exiting the platform. Birkenstock in 2016 said it would no longer sell its products on Amazon after a surge in counterfeit sales, and Nike in November 2019 announced it was exiting the platform to focus on its direct-to-consumer strategy. Ikea didn’t specify what marketplaces it will work with in the future, if any, though that may indicate it has something else in the works. In February 2019, the Swedish retailer teased the idea fo creating its own marketplace, which would include selling its rivals’ products, according to a Financial Times report.ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Tuesday, January 7th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.SmileDirectClub is starting off 2020 strong with a new partnership with Walmart. As part of the deal, SmileDirectClub will debut a host of products across Walmart’s more than 3,800 U.S. stores.First, here are the latest headlines.Bed Bath and Beyond Selling Some of Its Real EstateBed Bath and Beyond announced on Monday it has entered an agreement to sell about 2.1 million square feet of its real estate portfolio to private equity firm Oak Street Real Estate Capital and lease back the space. The spaces include retail stores, a distribution facility, and office space, according to a company press release. The company said the more than $250 million dollars generated from the transaction will go toward investing in Bed Bath and Beyond’s transformation efforts, funding share repurchasing, or reducing its outstanding debt. CEO Mark Tritton in a statement said, “This marks the first step toward unlocking valuable capital in our business that can be put to work to amplify our plans to build a stronger, more efficient foundation to support revenue growth, financial stability and enhance shareholder value.”  Disney+ Already Valued at Over $100 BillionAccording to an estimate from Barclays, Disney’s streaming service is already being valued by investors at more than $100 billion dollars less than two months after the launch of Disney Plus. Barclays pegs Disney’s core business, which includes its movie studio, parks, etc, at $213 billion dollars, leaving Disney’s direct-to-consumer streaming businesses worth around $107 to $108 billion dollars. Shares of Disney are about 6 percent above their closing price on November 11th, the day before Disney Plus launched. The stock is up more than 30 percent in the past year. Barclays said, “Just 6 weeks into launch, Disney is already pricing in a streaming business worth $108 billion, 69 percent of Netflix’s enterprise value which has taken 13 years to get here.” Disney has a market cap of about $260 billion, while Netflix is at about $144 billion.Amazon Expands Footprint in IndiaAmazon is deepening its ties with India’s second-largest retail chain, Future Retail, as the e-commerce giant expands its footprint in one of its key overseas markets. The two companies said they have entered into a long-term business agreement to expand the reach of Future Retail’s stores through Amazon India marketplace. Future Retail operates more than 1,500 stores across India but has not aggressively explored sales online. As part of the agreement, Amazon India will become the authorized online sales channel for Future Retail stores. The two giants said they have agreed to focus on grocery, general merchandise, fashion and apparel, and beauty products.  SmileDirectClub Inks Exclusive Deal With Retail Giant, WalmartSmileDirectClub announced that it has inked an exclusive deal with retail giant, Walmart, to debut a host of consumer products across its more than 3,800 U.S. stores and the retailer’s website. Initial products include an electric toothbrush, a teeth whitening system with an LED light, whitening toothpaste, a water flosser, and an ultrasonic UV cleaner. SmileDirectClub’s Chief Financial Officer said the deal was a long time coming and that they had been working on the products for over a year.  The deal is a win for the upstart company, as it gets the company instant name recognition inside the walls of the world’s largest retailer where many customers might be unfamiliar with the brand. Plus, the product lines are affordable and could move in good volume, which would benefit SmileDirectClub’s bottom line this year. It could also open the door to having SmileDirectClub’s teeth retainer installation shops inside Walmart stores if the products are successful. The company already has partnerships with CVS and Walgreens, displaying dedicated shops within their stores, and Walmart hasn’t ruled out shops opening at its U.S. locations. The retail giant has prioritized expanded, affordable healthcare services at the front of its stores in the past year, and SmileDirectClub shops would be a good fit.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Monday, January 6th. Here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Tech companies are increasingly looking to establish their presence in New York City, creating job openings and drawing in top tech talent to the city.  First, here are the latest headlines.Walmart Media Group Unveils Self-serve Ad PortalWalmart Media Group, the advertising arm of the retail giant, unveiled a self-serve ad portal enabling marketers to easily purchase search and sponsored product ads. The move aims to give advertisers more transparency and control over their ads. The retailer also revealed deals with third parties like Flywheel Digital as part of the new Walmart Advertising Partners program. The new capabilities promise to streamline and enhance advertisers’ ability to target ads to the right customer at the right time through automation and easy access to data about Walmart shoppers both online and offline. The retail giant’s enhancement of its advertising offerings is part of a larger trend. Other retailers like Amazon and Target have also been improving their advertising platforms as brands look for alternatives to Facebook and Google.Fire TV Passes 40 Million UsersAmazon announced that its Fire TV platform now has over 40 million users, up from the 34 million it claimed in May of 2019. The increase puts Amazon’s platform above competitor, Roku, which reported 32.3 million active accounts during its Q3 2019 results this past November. Roku and Fire TV have proven to be fierce competitors, with Roku’s TV hub spurring Amazon to launch its own free streaming service through its subsidiary, IMDb. While Roku has benefitted from its reputation as a neutral platform providing access to any streaming service, Amazon has been evolving to better support its rivals’ streaming services, including most recently YouTube, YouTube TV, and Apple TV’s app.Little Caesars Launching Delivery Via DoorDashLittle Caesars Pizza has partnered with DoorDash to add delivery to its operations for the first time in its 60-year history, as more chains face pressure to get foods to customers beyond their restaurants. Beginning Monday, Little Caesars will add delivery via DoorDash from most of its nearly 5,000 stores. The new delivery deal could present new competition for rivals Dominos, Pizza Hut, and Papa Johns who have invested heavily in their delivery options. During an interview, Little Caesars Chief Executive said, “The consumer is going toward home delivery.” More restaurants are making their food available through delivery companies as customers increasingly migrate to those online platforms. A recent survey of 2,500 diners found that 26 percent had used an online delivery service in September 2019, up 10 percent from a year earlier.  Tech Giants Look To New York City For Space And TalentSilicon Valley has long been known as the top hub for tech talent and advancement, but could it be facing a new rival? New York has been at the center of the top tech companies search for new office space. Facebook was among those searching for new office space in New York big enough to fit as many as 6,000 workers, more than double the number it currently employs in the city. The company’s move is part of a rush by the West Coast technology giants to expand in New York City. The rapid growth is turning a large part of Manhattan into one of the world’s top tech hubs.Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google already have big offices along the Hudson River, from Midtown to Lower Manhattan, or have been searching for new spaces, often competing with one another for the same space. In total, the companies are expected to have roughly 20,000 workers in New York by 2022. The growth in New York is occurring largely without major economic incentives from the city and state governments following the outcry last year over at least $3 billion dollars in public subsidies that Amazon was offered to build a corporate campus in Queens. The retail giant canceled its plans abruptly in February but is continuing to add jobs in the city at a slower pace.  Tech companies are choosing to tap into New York’s wealth of talent. The number of tech jobs in New York City has surged 80 percent in the past decade according to the New York State Comptroller’s office. Since 2016, the number of job openings in the city’s tech sector has jumped 38 percent. In November, New York had the third-highest number of tech openings among United States cities, behind just San Francisco and Seattle.  Cities across the country and around the world have attempted to establish themselves as worthy rivals to Silicon Valley. New York City is certainly not anywhere near overtaking the Bay Area as the nation’s tech leader, but it is increasingly competing for tech companies and talent.  ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Friday, January 3rd. Here are today’s latest headlines in digital disruption.Once the leading force in the beauty market, department stores have lost their footing to Ulta, the rise of e-commerce, and influencer marketing.First, here are the latest headlines.It's Return SeasonIt’s officially return season. According to a company press release, UPS expects to process 1.9 million returns today. The predicted number reflects a 26 percent year over year increase. Per the release, the increase, “illustrates how e-commerce continues transforming shopping patterns.” A report from Oracle Retail stated that 77 percent of consumers plan to return a portion of their holiday gifts, with 65 percent returning in-store and 32 percent anticipating a return via mail.Survey Shows 40% Have Purchased from DTC BrandsA new survey from communications agency, Diffusion, revealed that 40 percent of Americans have made a purchase from direct-to-consumer brands. Of those shoppers, 14 percent said they made between 1 and 19 percent of their purchases from direct-to-consumer companies. Notable categories for DTC purchasing over traditional retail included health and beauty products, apparel, and tech and gadgets. Shoppers reported the leading reason for choosing direct-to-consumer over traditional retailers was cost, followed by fast, free shipping.  Survey Shows Adding Recommendations to Item Detail Page Increases RevenueAccording to a case study from Dynamic Yield, E.L.F. Cosmetics found that revenue per user increased after adding product recommendations to item detail pages. Adding a ‘You may love’ section of recommended products garnered a lift in click-through rate of more than 23 percent, per the report. The beauty company also saw a 17.6 percent increase in mobile menu clicks after personalizing the menu based on users’ past shopping behaviors. The case study illustrates the growing importance of personalization to attract customers. A 2018 survey from Accenture and the Retail Industry Leaders Association revealed that 63 percent of consumers are interested in personalized recommendations. Another survey revealed that 93 percent of businesses with advanced personalization strategies increased their revenue in 2018.  Ulta Beauty, Influencer Marketing, and The Rise of E-CommerceAs retailers like Ulta Beauty and Sephora have won over shoppers, the former cosmetics powerhouse – the department store – has lost its strong footing in the market. Social media and influencer marketing has helped see the rise of specialty stores and cultivated a number of billion-dollar upstart beauty brands that are going head-to-head with established players like Estee Lauder. Since 2009, U.S. beauty and personal care sales have risen 52 percent according to market research from Euromonitor. The global cosmetics industry is expected to hit $430 billion dollars by 2022.  It’s an uphill battle for department stores as consumer trends shift. More shoppers are opting for natural looks, and increasingly searching for clean beauty brands to use. Ulta’s strength has been its focus on becoming a one-stop destination for shoppers by offering several services in-store. Its appeal has also been assisted by its celebrity brands. Sephora launched its product line, Clean by Sephora, with the chief merchandiser officer noting, “The past decade has been a time of significant growth and change for the beauty industry.”Department stores are also facing challenges as the rise of e-commerce eats into their normal foot traffic. Many stores are revamping their strategy to re-engage with their beauty customers. Nordstrom has shifted its beauty strategy by dedicating two of its floors in its new Manhattan flagship to the category. The store also recently partnered with Glossier to have pop-up experiences with the popular brand. Macy’s general business manager for beauty said, “Technology and experiential components will continue to be paramount to successful beauty campaigns, launches, and displays.”With the rise of e-commerce and social media, influencer marketing has become a preferred tactic for beauty brands. Social media marketing, coupled with the boom in e-commerce, has bred a mega-industry, with online beauty projected to be worth $38 million dollars by the end of 2023. According to a survey, 58 percent of respondents admitted they purchased a product because of an influencer. “All of the power went from manufacturers and retailers to the consumers themselves...Now we have social media where makeup artists are going on there and showing people exactly what to do.”ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, January 2nd. Today we’ll take a look back at the biggest trends and headlines of 2019 as we start the new year.2019 was a big year for the retail and e-commerce industries. Between record-breaking holiday sales, tariff concerns, CEO departures, and more, there’s a lot to cover. So here are a few of the things we thought were noteworthy in 2019.  Black Friday / Cyber Monday Smash Online Shopping RecordsIn 2019, Black Friday and Cyber Monday broke records. Digital sales were up 20 percent this latest Black Friday, reaching $7.4 billion dollars across 4,500 retail websites that Adobe Analytics tracked. It became the second-largest online shopping day in history. If you thought that was a lot, Cyber Monday 2019 blew it out of the water, reaching a whopping $9.4 billion dollars in online spending. Not only does this indicate the growing importance of retailer’s digital strategies, but it’s a sign of the changing times for the consumer. The convenience of online shopping and the world of Amazon has had a radical effect on the retail landscape and we can’t wait to see how that further develops in 2020.Bezos' Statement Highlights Sustainability DriveSpeaking of Amazon, they made headlines numerous times in 2019. Notably, Jeff Bezos made steep claims to achieve the terms of the Paris Climate Agreement a decade earlier. His statement marks a deeper cause, one that many retailers are working hard on. Sustainability and being aware of environmental impact has taken over global headlines and retailers are feeling the effects. More consumers are looking for brands that create sustainable products and find ways to offset their environmental impact. As a result, businesses like Allbirds have seen incredible success because of their mission to focus on sustainably and ethically-made products in the industry.  Demand for Sustainability Drove Resale IndustryConsumer demand for sustainability has created a boom in the resale industry. Once thought of as taboo, secondhand clothing and resale businesses like ThredUp, The RealReal, Poshmark, and even rental companies like Rent the Runway, are at the top of the pack in a market that’s expected to hit $51 billion dollars by 2023. 2019 saw a lot of new players try to break into this market, even the Kardashians are taking a swing with Kardashian Kloset. Brands like H&M, Urban Outfitters, and Banana Republic are introducing clothing rentals to their strategy to reach the mindful consumer.Amazon and Walmart Led Way in Same-day Grocery Delivery WarsSame-day grocery delivery wars waged on in 2019. Amazon and Walmart led the pack, but Walmart still has the upper hand. The retailer has even been testing autonomous delivery in certain markets. But as Amazon continues to work on its own grocery chain separate from it’s already owned Whole Foods, it will be interesting to see how this continues to develop in 2020.Amazon's Free Shipping Driving Consumer DemandAmazon has also put many retailers in a bind by driving consumer demand for fast and free shipping. Their rollout of same-day delivery drew a line in the sand that not many could cross over because of the margin-cutting impact it would have. Even Amazon saw their profits take a hit after making the transition. Target, after acquiring Shipt, was able to answer the same-day delivery call through the delivery service. Buy-online pick-up in-store services have also risen as a viable option for retailers and it’s one consumers seem to have embraced, driving a 43 percent uptick in buy-online pick-up in-store orders on Black Friday alone. 2020 will force a lot of retailers to look at their logistics and find creative ways to deliver on fast shipping.ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, December 26th, here are today’s headlines in digital disruption.Over the summer, Target announced it was opening mini Disney theme shops within some of its stores, as well as a Disney digital experience in the Target app. With movie-based toys increasing in popularity, this is a winning partnership for the two companies.First, here’s what’s making headlines.  E-Commerce Traffic Rose Significantly the Weekend Before ChristmasAccording to the Verizon Holiday Retail Index, e-commerce traffic rose by double digits the weekend before Christmas. Compared to last year, traffic rose 21 percent on Friday the 20th, 21 percent on Saturday the 21st, and 14 percent on Sunday the 22nd. The analysis from Verizon indicates that the combination of promotions and shipping deadlines drove solid results for the weekend.Super Saturday Breaks Sales RecordsNot only did e-commerce traffic rise, but the last Saturday before Christmas, known as Super Saturday, broke sales records. According to figures from retail consulting and research firm, CGP, Super Saturday sales on the 21st reached a record $34.4 billion dollars, marking the largest single-day in U.S. history. The sales day was 10 percent above Black Friday’s $31.2 billion dollar total this year. Cumulatively, digital sales have comprised 58 percent of the year-over-year growth in holiday retail spending in 2019.  E-Commerce Returns Could Be Nearly $42 Billion for Holiday SeasonThe total value of e-commerce returns over the holiday season could reach $41.6 billion dollars. The overall return rate is growing about 10 percent annually, straining storage space as the reverse logistics process can require 15 to 20 percent more space than outbound logistics. A well-run reverse logistics operation will become increasingly important as retailers continue to strive for sustainability goals that include waste components. The returns process results in about 5 billion pounds of waste and 15 million metric tons of carbon emissions from transportation every year, according to a CBRE report.        Disney and Target Join Forces In A Winning PartnershipOver the summer, Target announced it was opening mini Disney theme shops within some of its stores, as well as a Disney digital experience in the Target app. With movie-based toys increasing in popularity, this is a winning partnership for the two companies. Target has always sold Disney-licensed products, but the new arrangement ups the count and gives the retailer exclusive products that are otherwise sold only at Disney stores.Beyond that, the store is creating an "experience," the new way to the customer's heart. This features a lounge area in which movie clips are played on a large screen surrounded by Disney merchandise, music, interactive displays, movie-based games, and props for photo ops. The shops are only available at 25 Target stores, but the company is planning for at least 40 in total.  Target couldn’t have timed the shops more perfectly, coinciding with both the holiday season and the release of two anticipated Disney hits. Disney is already benefiting from the movie hype. CEO Bob Iger said that during the fourth quarter of 2019,  "Consumer products operating income was up 36 percent due to growth in merchandise licensing, as a result of strong revenue growth from sales of Frozen and Toy Story merchandise,”. Target also saw a sales boost during the fourth quarter, part of which was fueled by toys.With its huge reach, including all 50 states, strong customer satisfaction, and well-organized fulfillment options, Target is a natural ally for Disney.  ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Friday, December 20th, Here’s today’s headlines in digital disruption.There’s a lot of buzz around digitally-native brands, but while direct-to-consumer brands struggle to reach profitability, private labels are thriving.First, here’s what’s making headlines.  Hibbett Sports Gets New CEOFormer CEO of City Gear will be stepping into the CEO role at Hibbett Sports. He’ll be replacing Jeff Rosenthal, who announced his plans for retirement earlier this year. According to the chairman at Hibbett Sports, they believe that their newly appointed CEO is uniquely qualified to help strengthen Hibbett’s leadership position in both the customer experience and the active footwear and apparel industry.Secondhand Market Growing RapidlyThe secondhand market is growing rapidly thanks to players like The RealReal, ThredUp, and Poshmark and is showing no signs of slowing down. The growth comes at a time when younger consumers are increasingly concerned about sustainability. Fueled by millennials and Gen Z, the secondhand market is on track to more than double over the next five years, from $24 billion dollars to $51 billion dollars, according to ThredUp.  Influencer Activity on Instagram SurgedInfluencer marketing activity on Instagram surged this year as more brands partner with influencers to reach younger consumers. The number of posts with the #ad hashtag indicating an Instagram post is sponsored has risen 48 percent to more than 3 million this year. Millennials dominated influencer marketing, with more than half of influencer content created by people between the ages of 25 to 34, while only 34 percent of the app’s user base is in that age group.  Digitally-Native Brands Struggle While Private Labels ThriveThere’s a lot of buzz around digitally-native brands and their disruption of traditional retail. But an in-depth look at Bonobos and Walmart’s strategy banking on digitally-native brands reveals some cracks. Bonobos was the most well-known brand that started online and sold direct-to-consumer. With Andy Dunn at the helm, the company built its reputation as the pioneer in the consumer space.  But, like any trailblazing company, Bonobos made mistakes along the way. It built its own e-commerce and logistics infrastructure, at a significant cost, and raised an immense amount of money to do so, nearly $130 million dollars over six years. It sold to Walmart for $310 million dollars, just over its previous private round valuation and for about two times revenue.  Walmart since snapped up Jet.com, Moosejaw, ModCloth, Bare Necessities, and more, in hopes to compete with Amazon through digitally-native brands. However, the strategy hasn’t paid off and it is currently phasing out Jet.com, sold ModCloth to an investment firm, and it’s reported that Bonobos still remains unprofitable. Walmart has since said it plans to incubate its own private label brands as they shift strategies.The speed at which unprofitable digitally-native brands have grown starkly contrasts that of private labels, with companies like Target and Walmart scaling their private labels to billions of dollars in revenue in as little as one year. A built-in audience, a stringent focus on costs and margins, and a diverse marketing strategy makes this possible.  Heading into 2020, private labels will continue to dominate more as rising acquisition costs show no signs of reversing.  ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. We’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Thursday, December 19th. Here is today’s headlines in digital disruption.While many blame Amazon for driving high consumer expectations, it also seems to have clear benefits for retailers trying to keep up by driving businesses to create new resources and fulfillment networks for smaller retailers.First, here’s what’s making headlines.  Third-Party Delivery Services Now $10 Billion IndustryThe online shopping trend has affected more than just retailers. Consumers have also shifted to ordering their food online through delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash. According to Technomic, consumers looking for convenient food delivery spent $10.2 billion dollars through third-party delivery services in 2018. Restaurants have scrambled to be a part of the new $10 billion dollar industry, with McDonalds forming partnerships with Uber Eats, DoorDash, and GrubHub. The fast-food chain is now forecasting $4 billion dollars in global delivery sales in 2019. While there’s no doubt food-delivery apps are changing the industry, it remains to be seen if they can achieve profitability. GrubHub, the only profitable delivery provider, reported third-quarter net income of $1 million dollars, down from $23 million dollars a year earlier. DoorDash and Postmates are both looking to go public in 2020.  Jared, James Allen Partner for Concept StoreJared is partnering with digitally-native jeweler, James Allen, for a new concept store. Jared is known for its professional diamond consultants and personalized service. James Allen is one of the largest online diamond and bridal jewelry retailers, with a collection of over 250,000 thousand certified loose diamonds. The Jared and James Allen store is designed to provide a modern, elevated omnichannel shopping experience where customers feel comfortable shopping at their own pace. In a switch from traditional jewelry displays, the display cases open in the front, allowing shoppers to view jewelry from all angles. Bill Brace, the executive general manager of Jared said,  “Our collaboration with James Allen allows Jared the opportunity to create a new and richer experience for our customers and create a modern environment for jewelry shopping.” Amazon Banning FedEx Ground or Home for Third-Party SellersAmazon is banning third-party sellers from using FedEx Ground or Home on Prime orders beginning this week. Amazon cited a decline in performance as its reason behind preventing sellers from using the carrier. According to the company, the temporary ban will continue, quote, “until the delivery performance of these shipping methods improves,” end quote. FedEx Express will still be available to Amazon Prime sellers and standing non-Prime orders can still be shipped through FedEx Ground and Home.  Amazon Drives Fulfillment Network ExpansionWhen the founder of Supply, a specialty shaving products company, wanted to boost sales almost four years ago, he turned to Amazon. He added the company’s razors and shaving bowls to the marketplace in 2016 and was able to use the e-commerce giant’s fulfillment service to ship orders, supplementing what they were handling themselves. Three years later, he pulled Supply products from Amazon, citing fulfillment costs and seller fees shaved margins, among other issues. He said, “If you’re trying to build something, a brand, a relationship with customers, Amazon’s not a good place...Before I took it off Amazon, they started advertising their Amazon razors on my page.”  He turned to Shopify, which this year started rolling out its own distribution service.  For company’s like Supply, Amazon’s vast market reach and power could be a good thing. The e-commerce giant’s dominance of digital sales has sparked a fast-growing ecosystem of startups and services aimed at matching Amazon’s growing network and at helping retailers and brands meet rising consumer expectations. The new businesses are creating competition for Amazon, even as the giant itself continues to disrupt traditional retail and distribution strategies.Some of the new companies cater to brands that might sell on Amazon but don’t want to pay fulfillment charges, or that view Amazon as a competitor. Some major brands have distanced themselves from the e-commerce giant, with Nike recently deciding not to sell on Amazon anymore. Instead, they chose to use tools they’ve either built themselves or brought in from other companies.Businesses like Shopify, Wix.com, and Squarespace help sellers set up their digital stores and process payments. And a growing lineup of new software firms offer tailored technology to tell retailers where to keep their inventory. Players well known for helping customers with their online stores, like eBay and Shopify, plan to offer physical distribution services, using technology to create a network of third-party warehouse operators.  Traditional logistics providers are even developing e-commerce services for direct-to-consumer brands and small businesses. FedEx Chief executive said in a September interview that, “The way the war is going to evolve, it’s essentially going to be Amazon with their 150 fulfillment centers...against the Walmarts with 4,700 stores or the Targets with 1,800 stores or the Best Buys with 1,000 stores.”  While the Amazon Marketplace continues to dominate e-commerce, it appears to have also driven vast amounts of opportunities and resources for retailers trying to keep up.    ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.  Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. I’m Vincent Phamvan, and we’ll see you tomorrow.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Wednesday, December 18th. Here's today’s headlines in digital disruption.As we enter a new era of entertainment where streaming services online is becoming a more popular alternative to cable subscriptions, Disney has made key strategic moves to stay at the top of the market. But is it enough to compete with players like Netflix and Amazon?First, here’s what’s making headlines.Mobile Shopping Dominating in Fashion RetailAccording to a report, mobile phone shopping accounted for nearly 67 percent of traffic for fashion retail sites and 52 percent of sales. Mobile conversion rates increased by 53 percent since last year’s holiday season. Recent reports have indicated mobile shopping is a crucial element to holiday shopping this year, with BounceX predicting that consumers would shop more on mobile than desktop and another report from BillTrust indicated more than half of shoppers planned to shop via mobile devices for gifts this year.Lyft Launching Car Rental ServiceRide-hailing company, Lyft, announced that it’s launching its own car rental service. The service is available in the company’s main smartphone app and will work like traditional car rental companies, starting in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Uber previously entered the rental space with a partnership with car-sharing company Getaround, but shut the program down at the end of 2018. Both Uber and Lyft have also rented and leased cars on their platforms in the past, but Lyft’s new service is the biggest attempt at taking a bite out of the rental car market, which is dominated by just a few players who are already trying to prevent losing customers to ride-hailing companies.H&M Reports Stronger SalesH&M reported stronger quarterly sales, indicating that the fast-fashion retailer’s efforts to adapt to changing consumer habits and increased competition are starting to pay off. The company reported a 9 percent rise in fourth-quarter sales and its shares climbed almost 2 percent. H&M has relied on selling low-price apparel in bulk but is now overhauling that strategy as consumers shift to online shopping, where the brand faces fierce competition from digital-only rivals. The company is now speeding up its supply chain and stocks its stores more efficiently through customer data analysis to stay competitive in an evolving consumer landscape.Disney Adapts To The Evolving Entertainment IndustryMedia companies have faced many challenges as more people stream content over the internet instead of paying for cable subscriptions, but Walt Disney has managed to stay on top in the movie business. The company released six of the eight highest-grossing films so far in 2019, with titles like Avengers: Endgame, The Lion King, and Toy Story 4 helping it reach $10 billion dollars at the global box office. Disney’s success can ba party attributed to a series of strategic acquisitions over the past decade. In 2009, the company bought Marvel for $4.3 billion dollars. The deal came shortly after Disney purchased Pixar for $7.4 billion dollars. And in 2012, Disney acquired Lucasfilm for $4 billion dollars. The company’s acquisitions have paid off, with Disney’s box-office haul representing over 30 percent of money made in the U.S. film industry in 2019, up from 11 percent in 2009 according to data from Comscore.But as Disney enters into 2020, it’s facing a dramatically changing media landscape. Competitors like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple have upped their spending on content and created a fierce streaming war, with all platforms vying for a share of consumers’ wallets and Hollywood talent. Disney has made moves to retain its competitive edge in the new streaming age. In the last year, it closed a $71 billion dollar acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s entertainment assets, launched Disney+, gained control of Hulu, and released the highest-grossing movie in cinematic history, Avengers: Endgame.With its first 24 hours, Disney+ had 10 million sign-ups, and analysts predict the company will hit 20 million subscribers before the end of the year. Bob Iger, Disney’s CEO, has said that within a year of Disney+’s launch, the number of original shows and movies will go from 10 to 45. He also noted that within five years, there will be more than 60 original projects on the service. The company is also forecasting it will have between 60 million and 90 million subscribers by the end of 2024.While Disney+ has had a strong launch, it still remains to be seen if it will be enough to compete with Big Tech companies in the long run. Iger has also announced he will be stepping down in 2021, leaving uncertainty around who will lead the company in this new era of entertainment. In the last decade, Iger has helped grow Disney’s market cap from $60 billion dollars to more than $265 billion dollars.ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. I’m Vincent Phamvan, and we’ll see you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionThis is Today in Five, for today, Monday, December 16th, I'm Vincent Phamvan with today’s headlines in digital disruption.The ugly Christmas sweater craze is more than a tradition for one retailer, it’s their entire business. Ugly Christmas Sweater.com has found success selling bizarre and fun holiday sweaters online.  Hulu Launches Ad Experience Targeting Binge-WatchersHulu launched a new ad experience that allows brands to specifically target binge-watchers. The ads will utilize machine learning techniques to determine when someone has begun to binge-watch a show and will display contextually relevant ads acknowledging a binge is underway. Hulu says it made sense to target binge-watchers because it’s such a common way for people to watch their favorite shows. 75 percent of consumers in the U.S. say they binge-watch, and on Hulu specifically, nearly 50 percent of ad-supported viewing hours are spent during binge-watching sessions. Among the brands to use the new ad format are Kellogg’s, Maker’s Mark, and Georgia-Pacific.  LuLulemon Says Cites Men as Promising CustomersLululemon built its brand by driving the athleisure trend with women, but it’s now saying its most promising customers are men. Lululemon’s chief executive, Calvin McDonald, said total revenue for men’s apparel grew 38 percent in the third quarter, citing strong sales of outwear, pants, and underwear. Executives also told investors that 21 percent of Lululemon’s $3.8 million dollars in sales last year came from men’s products. McDonald said the company plans to double its men’s business by the end of 2023.Walmart Loses a Top Digital ExecutiveOne of Walmart’s top digital executives is stepping down. Andy Dunn, founder of Bonobos and senior VP of digital consumer brands at Walmart, announced he was leaving the company in a LinkedIn post. Dunn joined Walmart in June of 2017 when the retail giant acquired Bonobos. Dunn didn’t give any indication about why he was leaving Walmart, but his departure comes at a time when Walmart is scaling back its efforts to acquire digitally native brands to focus on incubating more of its own brands.  The Ugly Christmas Sweater Craze Drives One Retailer’s BusinessIt’s holiday party season and one company has built its entire business around the ugly Christmas sweater craze. At first, the company sold sweaters with just a retro reindeer or Santa, but now they feature Popeye’s chicken sandwiches and biscuits and lobsters from Red Lobster, and they’re going viral. The co-founder of Ugly Christmas Sweater.com has turned the business into one of the biggest sellers of ugly holiday sweaters, with the company’s latest Popeye’s chicken sandwich sweater becoming an instant success.  In just a few years, ugly Christmas sweaters have evolved from a byproduct of hipster culture to an annual tradition embraced by entire families. According to the company’s co-founder, they first noticed the ugly holiday sweater trend in 2011, when people were having ugly sweater parties at home. After going on eBay and seeing some of the sweaters going for $100 to $300 dollars, he decided to get in on the action. He and his brother launched Ugly Christmas Sweater.com in 2012, funding it with $5,000 dollars of their own money.  The first year, they made $40,000 dollars in sales, but the following year, revenue jumped 300 percent and it kept climbing. The co-founder said that competition has grown, with retailers like Costco, Walmart, Macy’s, and Nordstrom all selling ugly sweaters,  “so we’re always thinking about how we can stay ahead and stay competitive.”  The styles have evolved to contain more bizarre selections like 3D sweaters and even politically-themed designs. “But it’s all in the spirit of fun,” said the co-founder.  ClosingDon’t forget, Simplr can help you scale up for the holidays with 24/7 customer service support. Learn more at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of Today In Five. I’m Vincent Phamvan, and we’ll see you tomorrow.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionWith your Retail E-Commerce Briefing for today, Friday, December 13th, I'm Vincent Phamvan.As you’ve seen in the past few months, the lines between retail and consumer services are quickly fading. Next week, we’ll be rebranding this podcast as Today in Five, a daily briefing on all things digital disruption.Unilever acquired Dollar Shave Club for $1 billion dollars over three years ago and the service still isn’t making money. Executives discovered the average cost of acquiring each new customer was about the same online as in stores.First, here are some retail headlines.  Old Navy Partners with Postmates for 24 Hour DeliveryOld Navy has formed a partnership with delivery service, Postmates. The retailer has offered same-day buy online, pick up in-store services since last year, but with the new Postmates partnership, customers will now be able to have merchandise delivered to them within 24 hours. The new option will be available through the end of January, but according to a Postmates spokesperson, they’re exploring longer-term opportunities. Old Navy hopes the partnership will help bring in a surge of last-minute holiday shoppers.  Ulta Beauty Q3 Net Sales Up 8% Over 2018    Ulta Beauty announced net sales of $1.68 billion dollars for the third quarter, an almost 8 percent increase from last year. The beauty retailer has continued to post strong sales, but the weak cosmetics market is still having an impact. Ulta had to lower its guidance Q2 and CEO, Mary Dillon, said that the U.S. makeup category was in a “down cycle,”  since 2017 and has continued through 2019. They noted that consumers were still buying makeup, even for natural looks, but skincare products now make up a large part of the retailer’s continued success as the category has grown in popularity with younger consumers. As a result, the retailer expanded its skin bar, which offers services like facials and mineral infusions.  Nectar Focusing on Partnerships with Physical RetailersOnline mattress startup, Nectar, has turned its focus on partnerships with physical retailers. The company’s CEO said 80 percent of consumers still don’t want to buy a mattress online. He noted there was a tremendous amount of opportunity for growth with those 80 percent of consumers who want to try a mattress in-store first. The brand has signed on over 1,000 retail partnerships over the past 10 months and is seeing faster sales growth in-store than with online sales. They believe the trend will continue. The CEO noted that they think the investments in retail partnerships are worthwhile and ultimately end up costing less than what they spend on online marketing.  Digitally-Native Brands Find Profitability In Traditional Brick-And-MortarNectar isn’t the only digitally-native brand to notice the importance of traditional brick-and-mortar. That reality is hitting many of the world’s biggest companies that have collectively invested billions of dollars in digitally-native direct to consumer brands. Upstart brands are also realizing they have to move into stores to gain critical visibility and reach consumers who want to buy household staples in one trip instead of through a subscription model.  Unilever acquired Dollar Shave Club for $1 billion dollars over three years ago and the service still isn’t making money. Executives discovered the average cost of acquiring each new customer was about the same online as it was in stores. Dollar Shave Club is expected to break even next year, but Unilever has determined it, “doesn’t make financial sense to sell staples as an online subscription.”  The Chief Executive of Procter & Gamble said the company is still trying to figure out how to turn recently acquired brands into profitable businesses. He said, “There are many, many launches that grow fast, and people call them successes because they grow fast...We’re in the world of having to create value, not just grow. A business model that makes money is a higher challenge.”  ClosingJust a reminder, starting Monday, you’ll see this podcast show up with a new name: Today in Five, a daily briefing covering digital disruption.Find out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of the podcast. We’ll see you next week with a new and improved name, Today in Five.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionWith your Retail E-Commerce Briefing for today, Thursday, December 12th, I'm Vincent Phamvan.Walmart has partnered with robotics company, Nuro, to test driverless grocery delivery in Houston. Autonomous grocery delivery is still in its early stages, but as big players like Walmart pilot the new technology, it could see a wider rollout in the coming years.First, here are some retail headlines.  Chewy Q3 Sales Up 40%Online pet retailer, Chewy, reported that third quarter sales grew 40 percent to $1.23 billion dollars from $875.6 million dollars last year. The numbers beat analysts’ estimates, causing shares to rise over 3 percent in after-market trading. Chewy, which was acquired by PetSmart in 2017, grew its active customer base 33 percent in the most recent quarter to over 12 million. Pet owners are projected to spend over $75 billion dollars on their animals this year alone according to the American Pet Products Association. Chewy’s CEO said, “We believe that there is significant market opportunity ahead of us.”Stitch Fix Reports GrowthStitch Fix also reported good numbers for the latest quarters. The company reported net revenue of $445 million dollars, reflecting 21 percent year-over-year growth according to a press release. The styling service also reported that its active client base hit 3.4 million, increasing 17 percent year-over-year. The increase comes after the company rolled out new tech features, including direct-buy options like “Shop Your Looks”, which is “hyper-curated and algorithmically personalized to every client,” and “Shop New Colors”, which lets customers buy previously purchased items in new colors, prints, and sizes.Amazon Reconsidering NYCLess than a year after its plans for a second headquarters in New York fell through, retail giant Amazon is reconsidering. According to CNBC, Amazon plans to lease 335,000 thousand square feet of office space in Manhattan. A state representative said the decision was a victory since the expansion didn’t yield the $3 billion dollar performance-based incentives leaders promised Amazon in exchange for 25,000 thousand jobs. The new space will bring a fraction of the jobs Amazon had promised for its second headquarters, housing more than 1,500 employees according to the Wall Street Journal. An Amazon spokesperson said the new office space will open in 2021.  Walmart Partners With Nuro To Test Autonomous Grocery DeliveryAccording to a press release, Walmart has partnered with robotics company Nuro to debut autonomous grocery delivery in Houston. Over the next few months, Nuro delivery will be made available to Walmart customers who have opted into the service in the Houston area. The program will expand to the general public later in 2020. In a statement from the retailer, they believe that the pilot will give them valuable insight and enable them to develop and refine their service.  Autonomous grocery delivery is still in its early stages, but as big players like Walmart and Kroger test the new technology, it should see a wider rollout in the coming years. Nuro recently got $940 million dollars in financing and plans to expand to new cities, form new partnerships, and scale its fleet. Kroger launched a driverless test with Nuro earlier this year and Domino’s followed suit.  Though big players seem on board with the driverless technology, consumers are still unsure, expressing concerns over safety. States and cities are also still working through regulations as the tech becomes more common.    ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of the Retail E-Commerce Briefing. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. See you tomorrow.

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionWith your Retail E-Commerce Briefing for today, Wednesday, December 11th, I'm Vincent Phamvan.Facebook is in talks to lease a building in Manhattan, a deal that would make it one of New York City’s largest corporate tenants.First, here are some retail headlines.  Uber May Extend Delivery to Most RetailersIn a statement from the CEO of Uber, the popular ride-hailing company could extend its food delivery service to offer delivery services for retailers. He said, “We can extend that food delivery model to essentially every single local retailer so that anything you want in New York City can be delivered to you, hopefully in under 30 minutes.” The statement comes at a time when Uber is widening its fast-growing food delivery app to include groceries and other goods.  Disney+ May Hit 20 Million Subsribers By End of YearDisney Plus is estimated to hit 20 million subscribers before the end of the year. Analysts previously estimated the streaming service to hit 14.3 million subscribers but upped their estimates after healthier than expected app downloads and subscriptions indicated by Verizon. Disney Plus has had a successful launch in an increasingly crowded market. In the coming months, AT&T’s Warner Media will launch HBO Max and NBCUniversal will launch its streaming service, Peacock. Apple’s streaming service launched earlier this month, but with a limited streaming library.  Duolingo Valued at $1.5 BillionLanguage-learning app, Duolingo, is now valued at $1.5 billion dollars after a $30 million dollar investment by Alphabet. The new round of funding made Duolingo the first Pittsburgh-based tech start-up to be valued at more than $1 billion by venture capital investors. The company has raised a total of $138 million dollars to date. Duolingo has also made the CNBC Disruptor 50 list for two consecutive years and has seen a big jump in bookings, from $1 million less than three years ago to $100 million. According to a general partner at CapitalG, “Duolingo has been adding user and revenue at an impressive pace, continuing to solidify their position as the number one way to learn a language globally...The team has demonstrated that sticking to their mission providing free education is not only good for the world but also good for business.”  Facebook Considers Big New York Office ExpansionFacebook is in talks to lease a building in Manhattan, a deal that would make it one of New York City’s largest corporate tenants. According to sources familiar with the matter, the social media giant is interested in a vast amount of space at the Farley Building in Midtown Manhattan. The new space would be in addition to Facebook’s recent deal to lease 1.5 million square feet at the new Hudson Yards development, which the company announced last month.  A lease at Farley and Hudson Yards, combined with its existing offices in the city, would bring Facebook’s total footprint to more than 3 million square feet of New York office space, putting the company in the top ranks of the city’s largest corporate tenants. If the Farley deal is completed, the leases would create space for more than 14,000 Facebook employees. Amazon had previously planned on opening its second headquarters in the city, promising to create over 20,000 jobs before the retail giant abruptly canceled its plans.New York is becoming a prime location for tech companies. When Amazon backed out of its headquarters plan in the city, many thought it would discourage other players from considering the location, instead, interest has grown. Google, Apple, and Spotify have acquired office spaces in the last two years and others with existing presences are looking to expand.  In an emailed statement, a Facebook spokeswoman said, “It’s hard to predict future growth, but we believe New York is a vibrant market with a tremendous pool of talent.”      ClosingWant to stand out? Simplr can help deliver wow moments for your customers through unparalleled customer service support. Visit simplr.ai to learn more. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of the Retail E-Commerce Briefing. See you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionWith your Retail E-Commerce Briefing for today, Tuesday, December 10th, I'm Vincent Phamvan.Rent the Runway just formed a partnership with W Hotels to create a unique clothing rental experience. The company has embraced partnerships as they’ve continued to grow and it’s since influenced how traditional retail players innovate.  First, here are some retail headlines.  IKEA Buys Majority Stage in OptoroIKEA announced it bought a majority stake in U.S. startup, Optoro. The tech startup helps retailers manage returns more efficiently, which is a growing need as shopping moves online and return volumes grow. IKEA will roll out Optoro’s functionality to distribution centers, stores, and its customer support center in the United States, and will look at taking it to other markets. In a statement, a company executive said,  “Optoro’s solution will enable us to eliminate much of the waste created in the reverse supply chain, from minimizing the carbon emissions released in return shipping to finding the best next homes for returned items.”  Target Plans Times Square Small-Format StoreTarget announced its plans to open a new small-format store in Times Square. Expected to open in 2022, the store would be the retailer’s 10th opened or planned small-format store in Manhattan, which the company describes as a priority growth market for the company. Target has found success opening its small-format concept stores, with the company’s COO John Mulligan noting the retailer opened seven small format stores in the third quarter and another six in November with plans to open 30 small-format stores per year. On a conference call, Target CEO Brian Cornell said the expansion of its smaller stores was taking Target into new neighborhoods.  “Those are guests that were not shopping Target on a regular basis before, they are now.. Target has been stealing market share and expanding sales this year, posting improved performances with each quarter. The store’s growth stems from the retailer’s investments in both its private labels and its stores.Crocs CEO Says Teens are Loyal CustomersAccording to Crocs CEO, Andrew Rees, teen shoppers are more loyal than you’d think. Rees said, “When they’re buying something that provides a lot of value, they stick with it.”  Teens are choosing to wear Crocs more and more. The company ranked as the seventh most popular footwear brand among teens this fall, its highest ranking ever, according to a survey from Piper Jaffray. Last fall, Crocs ranked 13th. According to Rees, teens are important because they influence parents and siblings, along with sharing on social media. They’re an important consumer because they’re able to bring more people to the brand.  Rent the Runway and W Hotels Create New Rental ExperienceRent the Runway has partnered with Marriott International’s W Hotels to create a truly unique rental experience. At four W Hotels locations, visitors will have the option to pay a $69 dollar fee and pick four styles from Rent the Runway’s curated selection to wear during their stay. The clothing options will take into account the climate of the area and surrounding activities like skiing or swimming. Rent the Runway will ship the items to W Hotels where they’ll be delivered to people’s hotel rooms. At checkout, the clothes can be left behind in the room. Rent the Runway will also have mini closets stocked with outfits at the four hotels in case sizes don’t work or customers want additional items during their stay. Rent the Runway COO, Maureen Sullivan, said the plan is to grow to other properties in W Hotels’ portfolio over time.  Rent the Runway how been expanding on its partnerships recently. It has drop-off boxes in select WeWork and Nordstrom locations, along with a growing number of stores in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Washington D.C. The apparel rental service has also been expanding outside of its original category, adding home goods and kids apparel to its portfolio. Earlier this month, the company announced it would be renting out athletic apparel and ski attire from brands like Lululemon and Aztech Mountain.  When any company experiences rapid growth like Rent the Runway has, issues are bound to happen. In September, the company briefly stopped taking new customers due to a supply chain issue causing systemwide slowdowns. Customers complained about canceled and delayed orders, but by October, the company seemed to be back on track. Sullivan said, “If we are going to have problems, I want them to be growth-driven problems...It’s a privilege as a company we play this role in our customers’ lives.” .With sustainability and affordable value at the forefront of consumers’ minds, disruptor brands like Rent the Runway, thredUP, and StitchFix have challenged traditional retailers, forcing some players to shift their focus. More consumers are opting for rental or resale options instead of restocking their closets with items they won’t wear often. Urban Outfitters, Express, and Gap’s Banana Republic are just a few of the brands that have since launched their own rental platforms.  Rent the Runway hit a $1 billion dollar valuation earlier this year and was also named number five on CNBC’s Disruptor 50 list for 2019.ClosingFind out how Simplr can cut your customer service response time through cutting-edge technology and on-demand talent at simplr.ai. That’s S-I-M-P-L-R.ai.Thanks for listening to this latest episode of the Retail E-Commerce Briefing. See you tomorrow. 

From the Simplr studios in San Francisco, this is your daily briefing.  IntroductionWith your Retail E-Commerce Briefing for today, Friday, December 6th, I'm Vincent Phamvan.Glossier has formed a partnership with Nordstrom. Seven of the department store’s locations will feature Glossier You, a fragrance by Glossier, in dedicated pop-up sections through February 16th.First, here are some retail headlines.  Record Number of Shoppers Between Thanksgiving and Cyber MondayAccording to a report from the National Retail Federation, a record 189.6 million U.S. shoppers went to stores and retail websites from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday, up 14 percent from last year. Around 124 million shoppers went to stores and around 142 million shopped online, while 75 million did both. Black Friday was the busiest day for stores, followed by Small Business Saturday, and for the first time, Black Friday beat Cyber Monday as the busiest day for digital with 93 million shoppers compared to 83 million shoppers for Cyber Monday.  Lululemon Could Reach Nike-like ProfitsAccording to analysts with Cowen & Co, Lululemon could be on track to reach Nike-like profits. In a report, the analysts see a path for the athleisure brand to reach a $40 billion dollar market cap, generate $1 billion dollars in cash flow a year, and reach a return on investment rate of 44 percent. The analysts cited, “consistent innovation, luxury-like brand positioning, and community-based model,” as Lululemon’s growth factors. They also pointed to potential growth in menswear and international sales, as well as targets for $4.3 billion dollars in women’s apparel that would put the brand in line with powerhouse retailers like Nike and Adidas current global women’s apparel businesses.J. Crew to Spin Off MadewellJ. Crew announced that it had reached an agreement to spin off its Madewell denim brand and take it public in the first quarter of next year. The announcement came as the retailer reported a 1 percent revenue rise to $625 million dollars in the third quarter, with J. Crew sales falling 4 percent and Madewell sales rising 13 percent to $151 million dollars according to a company press release. Executives said digital sales drove more than half of those sales. Executives from the company said that the company and its lenders have agreed to terms that were also approved by a special committee, paving the way for the creation of two separately managed companies that will have  “sustainable capital structures.”    Glossier Partners With Nordstrom For New Pop-UpsGlossier is embracing wholesale through a new partnership with Nordstrom. The makeup unicorn will be featured in seven Nordstrom stores, including the recently opened New York City flagship and stores in Seattle and Chicago. Each location will include a temporary space dedicated to the Glossier You fragrance and is designed to give the full Glossier experience with pink decor and sales associates in matching jumpsuits.  Glossier is the latest in a growing trend of direct-to-consumer companies partnering with large retailers. Target now carries Harry’s grooming products, Nordstrom also features digital brands from Reformation, to Everlane, to Away. Glossier resisted the trend until recently, with founder Emily Weiss saying she didn’t want to give up control over how her products were sold. The brand has instead expanded through two stores in New York and Los Angeles, a series of global pop-ups, and through digital channels.  The decision to partner with Nordstrom came down to the category. Weiss told Business of Fashion that Glossier You is,  “one of the most generationally defining, important fragrances,” but convincing consumers required branching out. Weiss noted in a statement that fragrances are difficult to sell online.  The Glossier pop-ups will be open through February 16th and the fragrance is the only Glossier product that will be sold at the Nordstrom locations.ClosingThanks for listening to this latest episode of the Retail E-Commerce Briefing. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. See you tomorrow.