The Latest
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Small businesses may take the brunt of tariffs, even when they’re based in the US
Small-scale boutiques, brands and factories don’t have the deep pockets, diverse supply chains or flexibility enjoyed by chains like Walmart.
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How J.C. Penney’s new brand positioning is subverting consumer expectations
Out-of-home ads that don’t feature labels want consumers asking “It’s from where?” as the retailer pushes to modernize while promoting value.
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Harry Potter charms Chicago: Take a look inside the new store
The Magnificent Mile location has a “Goblet of Fire” theme and features the largest Butterbeer Bar in the U.S.
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As TikTok Shop’s fate remains in balance, social commerce gains traction
The social media app with its popular e-commerce feature is in a state of suspense after a ban was once again delayed. Here’s a look at what this means for retail and how experts feel brands should respond.
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EBay taps AI to make listing easier for sellers on mobile
The marketplace is continuing to build on creating a seamless listing experience with new mobile AI tools.
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Trump pauses most reciprocal tariffs, hikes China’s further
The U.S. will now charge a 125% duty on imports from China, while most other countries will be subject to a 10% rate for 90 days.
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Amazon pilots AI app feature that can buy items from third-party sites
Buy for Me can purchase eligible products from third-party sites without customers leaving the Amazon Shopping app.
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Peloton names new COO, chief commercial officer
As a result, the retailer’s chief supply chain officer is leaving the business and the company is on the hunt for a new chief of information.
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Victoria’s Secret hires Savage x Fenty vet in leadership overhaul
The lingerie company named Adam Selman as its executive creative director and appointed three brand presidents.
Updated April 9, 2025 -
Tariffs are the latest test of beleaguered US consumers
Before the expansive levies were announced, spending power was already weakened by high prices and rising debt, among other forces, analysts say.
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Any Levi’s tariff-related price bumps will be ‘surgical,’ but impact of trade policy still unclear
Chief Financial and Growth Officer Harmit Singh this week said the last time the company faced a similarly murky challenge was during the pandemic.
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China raises tariffs on US to 84%, matching Trump’s increase
The retaliatory duties, taking effect Thursday, were originally set at 34% before the White House raised its own rates further.
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Deep Dive
The enduring appeal of pens and paper in a digital era
Analog forms of communication are far from dead. U.S. indie brands are capitalizing on a dedicated customer base that has had to look abroad for special stationery goods.
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Etsy marries AI and human touch with curated collections
The feature builds on the marketplace’s holiday gift recommendation tool. But Chief Product Officer Nick Daniel said the company is “just scratching the surface” with AI.
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CVS taps former UPS finance chief as new CFO
Brian Newman will guide CVS’ finances at a challenging time for the retail pharmacy and health insurance giant.
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Beyoncé’s Cécred tells real women’s stories in first brand campaign
Cécred also rolled out this week to over 1,400 Ulta Beauty stores and online, making it the biggest exclusive hair launch in the beauty retailer’s history.
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Ulta pauses on Target expansion efforts, for now
CEO Kecia Steelman didn’t comment on plans for next year, but said the break in 2025 is geared at investing in the current 610 locations.
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DTC footwear brand Vivaia opens first US store
The 900-square-foot space located in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood follows a brief pop-up in that location late last year.
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Column
The Weekly Closeout: Hudson’s Bay hunts for a buyer and tariffs hit apparel hard
The department store is soliciting offers for part or all of its business. Meanwhile, one analyst said new tariffs put “all 2025 guidance at risk.”
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Under Armour, Unless partner on plant-based sportswear collection
The regenerative sportswear collection is “designed to decompose rather than pollute,” according to Under Armour Brand President Eric Liedtke.
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Trump threatens 50% tariff on China if retaliatory duties stay
In response, China’s Ministry of Commerce said it has no intention of backing down and vowed to install countermeasures if Trump’s threat holds.
Updated April 8, 2025 -
Deep Dive
Fashion industry reacts to sweeping tariff changes
Experts say the new policies are likely to raise prices and weaken consumer confidence, and are unlikely to bring U.S. manufacturing back.
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Big Lots stores begin to open under new ownership
Variety Wholesalers will commence the first wave of openings Thursday, where customers will find remodeled stores and new merchandise categories.
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Target launches campaign highlighting spring merchandise
The campaign comes after the mass merchant announced a multibillion-dollar investment in stores, technology and supply chain.
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Retail leaders sound off on AI’s use-cases
From Toys R Us’ experimentation with video to Meta’s new ad capabilities, here’s how the tech is being used across the industry.