Sarasota awaits the next move by Walmart Michael Pollick/Sarasota Herald-Tribune The City Commission’s rejection of Walmart’s plans to develop a supercenter on Ringling Boulevard may end up being but a small episode in a prolonged effort that could involve litigation by the Arkansas-based merchant. “They have three options now,” said city attorney Robert Fournier. “Walk […]
Archives for 2013
Retail Rap: 2013 Outlook
Any discussion about what’s on tap for 2013 has to start with the economy and consumer spending. Even though there are signs of recovery, including recent successes by the Dow and an improving housing market, consumers still appear to be nervous to open their wallets. In the latest edition of my Retail Rap column with […]
Does Social Responsibility = Retail Opportunity?
Wal-Mart recently unveiled an ambitious plan to hire 100,000 veterans over the next five years. While I certainly hope this initiative helps spur other retailers do institute similar plans, the announcement made me wonder about the social consciousness of retailers. Are they doing these things out of the goodness of their hearts, or because it […]
The Price is Right?
Target made headlines recently by announcing that the price-match guarantee that we saw during the holiday shopping season will now be a full-time offer throughout the year. I’m sure I wasn’t the only retail analyst who saw how big of a deal this could end up becoming. But a closer look at the fine print […]
Holiday-style promotions become a year-round affair
Holiday-style promotions become a year-round affair Justine Griffin/Sarasota Herald-Tribune Following a relatively flat 2012 holiday shopping season, retail chains are extending holiday-time promotions to spur sales, touching off what analysts say will be an unpredictable spending climate throughout this year. In many cases, the tactics this year are ones merchants kicked off in 2012, ranging […]
Smartphones key mobile growth
Smartphones key mobile growth Kim Leonard/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Shoppers tapping away at smartphones played a big role in ringing up a 171 percent increase in holiday sales via mobile websites developed and tracked by Branding Brand. The South Side-based mobile commerce company monitored 84 retail sites, compared the latest numbers to holiday 2011 and concluded the […]
