Today on Total Retail

Leaders across practically every industry have spent the last two years laser-focused on generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). So laser-focused, in fact, that Gartner predicts the technology is sliding into the “Trough of Disillusionment,” where confidence starts to waver as the most talked-about GenAI products struggle to meet expectations. There’s light at the other end of…

At this year’s Shoptalk conference, retail media was an absolute top-line focus. The latest industry studies tell us that retail media spend is on track to increase by 88.5 percent through 2028, evolving into a $97.91 billion marketplace. That’s how eager advertisers are to take advantage of the value they see in retail media networks (RMNs).…

Retailers offering online services should be aware of a cybersecurity threat that can impact operations, customer satisfaction, and revenue: automated bots. Leading the charge to an unprecedented surge in malicious bot-driven activity in the retail industry are scalping bots, sophisticated programs designed to purchase high-demand products in bulk. The retail industry is particularly vulnerable. Research…

Ten years after acquiring the Family Dollar brand in an effort to fit it into its wider bargain store business, Dollar Tree is selling off the retailer for $1 billion. The Virginia-based company announced Wednesday it was selling Family Dollar to private capital firms Brigade Capital Management and Macellum Capital Management. The deal is expected…

American consumers have become value-obsessed, shaping their shopping behaviors. In the last quarter of 2024, McKinsey reported that 74 percent of U.S. shoppers admitted to trading down — i.e., switching retailers, delaying purchases, or seeking better value — despite spending more overall than in previous years when adjusted for inflation. However, with recent reports showing…

Three decades into the e-commerce revolution, a truly personalized and seamless online shopping experience remains elusive. Brands and retailers still struggle to make it easy for consumers to find what they want. Consumers prefer online shopping for its convenience and expect a tailored experience. Unfortunately, they often don’t get it. The red cashmere sweater they…

Simple, one-time transactions contribute to revenue and the bottom line. More importantly, sustained customer relationships optimize lifetime value, which a brand can build by following the Marketing Rule of 7. The Marketing Rule of 7 is a simple yet powerful strategy based on the concept that consumers need to encounter a brand’s message at least…

As connected TV (CTV) consumption continues to rise, advertisers have a unique opportunity to engage high-intent shoppers at scale. Whether consumers are researching products, comparing brands, or making final purchase decisions, CTV is a powerful channel for influencing buying behavior throughout the customer journey. According to eMarketer, 43 percent of CTV viewers find TV ads…

Kroger countersued Albertsons on Tuesday, escalating a legal battle between the companies following the collapse of their proposed $25 billion merger in December. Albertsons terminated the merger immediately after courts blocked it and sued Kroger, alleging a breach of contract that led to the deal falling apart. Albertsons asked for billions in damages along with a $600 million…

Retail media is one of the fastest-growing advertising channels. Estimates from eMarketer anticipate that U.S. retail media ad spending will increase by 88.5 percent from 2024 to 2028. This growth will bring significant investment from retailers as they expand their marketplace offerings. However, unchecked excitement could lead to a rushed retail media deployment that fails…