Halloween Spending is Set to Hit $13.5 Billion
Americans are expected to spend a record $13.5 billion on Halloween in 2026, according to a new NRF forecast. But alongside the spending boom, shoppers are looking for ways to make their celebrations feel personal and get more use from what they buy.
Key Factors That Are Driving Consumer Shopping Behavior
A new consumer survey found a variety of key factors that are driving consumer shopping behavior. Ahead of the holiday shopping season, these results are crucial for retailers looking to stand out against the competition.
CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows Sales Growth in June
Retail sales climbed for the ninth month in a row during June as positive factors overcame challenges to the economy, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor.
5 Numbers Every Retailer Should Track
To track business performance, retailers should keep track of a handful of key measurements that provide an ongoing pulse of the business, identify trends and take corrective action before small issues become major problems.
4 Proven Fixes for Common Retail Call Center Pain Points
Retail call centers shape customer perception at every touch point. When communication breaks down, customer trust erodes quickly. Addressing these issues with targeted solutions creates a more reliable support experience and can encourage repeat business.
When Marketing Should Say “No”
In retail marketing, enthusiasm can be both an asset and a liability. And for retailers, the pressure to participate can feel relentless. Yet effective marketing is not about saying yes to every opportunity. In fact, the discipline to say “no” is often what separates focused retailers from those who scatter resources without meaningful results.
Staying Competitive in the AI Era: A Small Retailer’s Survival Guide
Small retailers face many challenges as the market grows and technology advances, including rising costs and improved competition. AI tools can make it easier for retailers to compete in the new business market by allowing them to use the same resources as industry giants. AI enhances the customer experience while making a small retailer's operations smarter and more efficient.
How Economic Uncertainty Is Reshaping What (and Where) Consumers Buy in 2026
The impact of inflation, high interest rates and global supply chain disruptions is still fresh for consumers, influencing what they buy, how they purchase and where they shop. Considering these factors can inform retailers about pricing, channels and potential collaboration.
The Ultimate 2025 Holiday Gift Guide
The holiday season is nearly here, and with the Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping weekend upon us, consumers are getting ready to celebrate the season of giving. Whether you're looking for gifting inspiration or just want to treat yourself, our Ultimate 2025 Holiday Gift Guide has something for everyone.
Wakefern Selects New Platform for Personalized Marketing Campaigns
Supermarket customer intelligence and engagement ecosystem Birdzi announced that Wakefern Food Corp., the largest retailer-owned cooperative in the U.S., will implement Birdzi’s customer intelligence platform to better understand shopper needs and enhance promotional outreach.
Credit Card Fees Account for $3 Billion of Back-to-School Costs
The “swipe” fees that banks charge merchants to process credit card transactions will drive up the price of school and college supplies by $3 billion this year and cost the average family between $20 and $30.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act Signed Into Law
On July 4th, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law by President Trump. Often referred to as the "Big Beautiful Bill," this budget reconciliation law represents a significant legislative package that enacts various tax and spending policies, forming a core part of the current administration's agenda.
NFIB Highlights Benefits of Small Business Tax Deduction in MN
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), a small business advocacy organization, has released two new digital tools to help small business owners, policymakers and the public in Minnesota understand the significant economic impact of the 20% Small Business Tax Deduction and what’s at stake if Congress fails to make it permanent.
KT Winery Expands Retail Presence
Women-led wine brand KT Winery is increasing its retail footprint this year. The company’s wine – which is currently available at Target, Total Wine, Safeway and Food City, as well as being served aboard one of the world’s largest airlines – plans to add almost 200 retail locations in Florida, Georgia, California and Pennsylvania before the end of 2025.
Stamps.com Launches $25,000 Grant to Support Small Businesses
Stamps.com, a provider of office mailing and shipping solutions, just launched its $25,000 “Small Business Flexibility Grant.” The call for applications is open through the end of May, in celebration of Small Business Month.
Consumers Desire Trust and Transparency
In an era of volatility and evolving social norms, modern consumers are navigating a highly complex landscape in which trust and transparency are paramount. InvestBev released a white paper, “Transparency: An Industry Imperative,” which offers an in-depth look at how consumer shifts toward trust and wellness are transforming the beverage industry.
Haiti Mama: A Journey of Hope and Empowerment
Through their subscription boxes, one non-profit business is focusing on giving back and working to make a positive change in the world. Introducing Haiti Mama, which works to preserve and restore families in Haiti through community social work, education and employment.
AI a Catalyst for Reshaping Warehouse Efficiency
With Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the forefront of many of the latest technology integrations, warehouses can now better streamline inventory management, optimize the workforce and increase safety, just to name a few perks.
IV20 Brings Together the Alcohol and Cannabis Communities
Blending the worlds of alcohol and cannabis has been attempted before, but has never been successfully done due to federal and regulatory complications. IV20 made its successful debut by blending together different terpenes, resulting in the spirit tasting and smelling like cannabis, but it's 100% vodka.
Top Toys and Gifts for the Holidays
As a record number of people (183.4 million) are expected to shop during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a new survey from the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics reveals the most popular toys and gifts consumers plan to purchase this holiday season.
