Walmart US CEO says retailer is "thinking like a startup" | Wegmans plans rapid 4-store expansion in N.C. | C-store operator revs up charging station plans
The new Walmart+ service, unveiled this month along with pilot programs for two drone delivery services, are evidence that the company is adopting the innovative mindset of a technology startup, says Walmart US President and CEO John Furner. Furner details Walmart's latest tech efforts, offering insight into how they work and where they may be headed in the future.
Win the next generation of consumers Winning the hearts and minds of Gen Z is paramount for brands. Fetch, the stickiest shopping app for Gen Z, offers a powerful platform for advertisers to connect authentically with the younger generation and create lifelong consumer relationships. With the ability to reward every purchase and a gamified user experience, Fetch delivers value and personalization at every consumer touchpoint. Explore the infographic to learn more.
Wegmans, which opened its first store in North Carolina in Raleigh in 2019 and recently added a second site in the West Cary neighborhood, is planning to debut at least four more locations in the state. The grocer will open new stores in Wake Forest and Chapel Hill in spring 2021, and also confirmed its intention to open more sites in Cary and Holly Springs in the near future.
Alimentation Couche-Tard, parent of convenience store chain Circle K, will roll out electric car charging stations at stores in Canada and the US over the next year. The company, which has 14,350 stores worldwide, has gained experience operating charging stations in Norway for several years, CEO Brian Hannasch said.
Fashion retailer Express is teaming with designer and "Queer Eye" star Tan France on a virtual summit to kick off the retailer's new Dream Big Project. The project will raise funds for a different cause each quarter, starting with a fund that's offering microloans for small businesses hurt by the pandemic.
Walgreens partnered with DoorDash this summer to launch a 30-minute delivery service of nonprescription items in 16 US markets, the latest move in the pharmacy retailer's ongoing effort to boost omnichannel options, Walgreens executive Stefanie Kruse said. Other efforts started before and during the pandemic have ramped up, including telehealth options, as well as curbside and drive-thru pickup programs.
Rebecca Minkoff figured out how to safely hold an in-person show during New York Fashion Week by incorporating social distancing, masks and support from partners, including home improvement retailer Lowe's. Minkoff's boho rock girl-inspired collection will be matched with a line of face masks set to launch in the coming weeks.
As autumn closes in, Trader Joe's is preparing to roll out pumpkin products and other items inspired by the season, ranging from candy to frozen foods. The goal of the upcoming pumpkin push is to keep in-store traffic high, since Trader Joe's is among the few grocers that have decided against online services during the pandemic.
August retail sales saw a gradual improvement from July and larger year-over-year gains. Just over half the retail categories saw month-over-month gains, with the biggest monthly gain among clothing stores. Read more.
Fashion Institute of Technology students have designed customizable uniforms and apparel pieces for 2.5 million Girl Scouts in grades six through 12. "With this collection, our shared goal was to not only design trendy attire but also make sure that girls would feel inspired, proud and powerful while wearing each piece," said Nidhi Bhasin, Girl Scout alum and Fashion Institute of Technology student. Read more.
Shake Shack now offers curbside pickup at 68 of its 193 restaurants, after a test of the practice at 10 locations in July. The chain also plans to transform as many as 10 units into "Shack Track" formats, with drive-thru and walk-up windows that make it easier for customers to pick up mobile orders.
