Pete Gerstberger

Key EMARKETER stat: US ecommerce resale volume will hit $80.60 billion this year, a growth of 3.4% YoY, per our December 2023 forecast. Beyond the chart: Ecommerce resale volume is returning to growth after a 6.9% dip YoY in 2022 and a 2.5% one in 2023, per eMarketer forecast. But it still hasn’t returned to its pandemic high of $85.87 billion in 2021. Growth in the number of online fashion buyers has slowed, leading platforms to search for strategies to boost order values by offering luxury goods and courting wealthy shoppers. #ecommerce #resale #retailsales

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Retail is an ever-evolving industry that has seen its fair share of changes over the years. From traditional brick-and-mortar stores to the rise of e-commerce, product startups have had to adapt and keep up with changing consumer behavior. In recent years, technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences have caused significant disruptions in the retail landscape. Check out our latest blog post where we will discuss the latest trends in retail and how product startups can adapt to these changes. https://lnkd.in/gwqbiBd2 #retail #retailtrends #digitalmarketing #sustainability #ecommerce #customerservice #dataanalytics #omnichannel

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Are retailers moving fast enough as they build out retail media? Are they setting themselves up to be self-sufficient? Get ready for part 2 of our #RetailMedia series on the Middlemen...we talk about how retailers have begun the process of in-housing their technology, and their slow slide toward becoming digital publishers. Why is it happening slowly? Because display ads on retailers never really worked. We also cover Costco's launch of its Off-site retail media offering, and how (this part is a rant) unsophisticated press coverage is stuck treating all retail media capabilities as one monolithic thing, and holding back an understanding of the business. Some shout outs to Mark Williamson of Costco Wholesale and Michael Halverson of Albertsons Media Collective in this episode as well as a lot of talk about the rise, fall and dispersion of talent from Quotient to the rest of the retailers and vendors who are building out retail media. Spotify https://lnkd.in/esFZiWqY Youtube https://lnkd.in/eW_uHuKZ

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Headlines like “Self-Checkout is a Failed Experiment” and “Why Retailers are Losing Faith in Self-Checkout” have been plentiful these past few months, along with story after story of big-name retailers like Target, Walmart, Dollar General and Costco “ditching” the tech. It’s been a veritable tsunami of bad press for self-checkout, and honestly, it’s not all that surprising — after all, consumers have long complained about the finicky machines, which often don’t work and, even when they do, make many customers feel like they’re doing the retailer’s job for them. #retailtech #customerexperience

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AI is exploding across the retail industry and yet most retailers are ill-prepared for taking full advantage of AI’s benefits. While the largest retailers - companies like Walmart, Kroger, and a few others - are transforming their massive businesses into digital operating and business models, traditional retailers continue to be hamstrung by poor quality data and application silos. Developing data discipline, data diversification, and speeding up the gathering, understanding, and use of data are essential to survival in a time of exponential technology growth. Moving to a unified data foundation speeds development and deployment of new AI capabilities. In today’s world, speed doesn’t kill, being slow does. So are you on the path to becoming a Bionic Retailer? Bionic Retail is available here: https://lnkd.in/gNDY8baC #retail #retailstrategy #retailtech #retailinnovation #FMCGretail #supermarkets #CPGretail #grocery #groceryinnovation #grocerytech #grocerystrategy #AI #retailAI Center for Advancing Retail & Technology (CART) #bionicretail #CEO #CMO #CIO #COO https://bionicretail.com/

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Retail is powered by data. The future of retail is digital. Retail success is dependent on positive customer engagement (digital and physical). If you believe the above statements, why - if you are a retailer - would you deliberately hand over to a third-party your customer engagement, a growing revenue stream, and a source of ever more important first-party data? Yet that’s just what retailers and wholesalers have done by signing on to Instacart’s retail media network. If I’m a retailer or wholesaler, I get it. Instacart is the ‘Easy Button’. A one-stop shop for outsourcing online shopping, digital shopper engagement, and retail media. Choosing a third-party like Instacart removes major headaches and resource commitments for retailers. So I don’t blame retailers and wholesalers for partnering with third-parties like Instacart. But at what cost? As Instacart and other third-party marketplaces grow their influence, traditional retailers will increasingly be delegated to simply putting products on the shelf. CPG marketing funds are rapidly evolving towards digital solutions. How long do you think it will be before traditional trade promotion dollars will be dependent on digital capabilities like sophisticated targeting, digital engagement in the store, and digital offer delivery managed across a growing number of channels? All things Instacart is able to provide. So I get it. Grocery retail is incredibly tactical, the need to obsessively control operating expenses to eke out a profit. Thinking strategically and longer-term is a luxury that many retailers and wholesalers do not have. And I have to give Instacart credit. They saw a market opportunity and went after it, pivoting along the way to provide a growing array of tech solutions to retailers in addition to creating and growing their retail media network. Yet as we accelerate up and out technology’s exponential growth curve, that historical tactical focus, putting out the brush fires to survive another day, becomes increasingly dangerous. And understanding that we now live in a world that has never before existed, a world of exponential change, is now imperative for survival. That’s why I wrote Bionic Retail, my latest book. To help the retail industry understand that it is now in a new world and many of the old rules no longer apply. Succeeding in the exponential world requires new thinking and deliberately letting go of many past practices, processes, and beliefs that increasingly constrain retail and innovation. Maybe the ‘Easy Button’ isn’t going to be so easy after all. The Shelby Report ROFDA Instacart #grocery #groceryretail #grocerystrategy #grocerytech #groceryinnovation #retail #retailtech #retailstrategy #retailinnovation #CPG #CPGinnovation #retailmedianetworks #RMN #supermarket Center for Advancing Retail & Technology (CART) https://lnkd.in/gH93nm3A

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In our whitepaper, "Redefining Retail: Crafting Your Journey Towards a Perfect Store Strategy," brands learn how to: - Evaluate perfect store success potential - Build a picture of success - Implement a scorecard system  - Create a field rep workflow and store tracker Download here: https://lnkd.in/eMAs5FNu

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#HotTake: Retail stores aren’t a shortcut to success. Retail offers bigger POs, visibility, and cash flow Yet, it doesn’t ensure brand sustainability Case in point: JLo Beauty Despite celeb status and prime placement at Sephora, She faced challenges resulting in a US exit Retail alone doesn’t secure loyalty or repeat sales Placement isn’t guaranteed forever For lasting success, think beyond the retail PO Some markers of a sustainable brand include: Authenticity, community, differentiated formulas, and true fans Building a lasting brand legacy requires more than a retail presence – 👋🏾 Hi, I’m Monique, a former retail buyer turned beauty industry advisor who helps emerging brands ready to scale at big retail. If you are ready to scale and invest, book a discovery call, and let’s see if we can work together.

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I've just published a new blog on the DIGITS site, where we delve into the recent Target Circle relaunch and its significant impact on the retail landscape. In this post, we explore:   - 1M New Signups since the relaunch  - A 20% increase in weekly offers  - 2.5X higher offer utilization with auto-apply  - Key insights on promotional spend and incrementality Plus, I share strategic tips on how to leverage these changes for maximum success. https://lnkd.in/g9PwNCMx

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According to our Spring U.S. Consumer Footwear Survey, conducted in partnership with Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA), footwear spending projects to be flat this spring and summer—only the athletic sector expects an increase, albeit a modest 2% growth. With that said, we've uncovered three key tactics industry players can implement to meet consumer needs and boost sales in the months to come and beyond. Here's what companies should prioritize:

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Dear Retail Friends,   If you’re a wholesaler, access to data from suppliers and retail customers is critical in enabling optimal service levels with minimal inventory. But getting that data, and acting upon it, can be challenging.   While there are many hurdles to this kind of collaboration, it can be done. And the benefits are numerous – not just for wholesalers, but their suppliers and retail customers as well.   https://lnkd.in/dbxub36v   #supplychain #supplychainoptimization #wholesaledistribution The future of wholesale supply chain collaboration | RELEX Solutions Unlock insights on boosting wholesale collaboration for supply chain efficiency and profit in this expert interview.

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Dollar General is enhancing its retail media program by teaming up with solutions provider Criteo. The commerce media platform will work with the retailer's Dollar General Media Network (DGMN) arm to support onsite sponsored ad offerings. Through this arrangement, brand partners can access inventory and campaign execution and utilize Criteo’s self-service demand-side platform. Among other capabilities, brands can leverage DGMN’s inventory within their private market through Criteo’s retailer monetization platform. In addition, the technology enables brands to reach Dollar General’s digital customers who often build lists online before making their weekly in-store purchases. Omnichannel insights will be available for marketers to see if sales are taking place online or in-store. | Progressive Grocer https://lnkd.in/gATgumgr #retail #retailmedia #grocery #shoppers #media #digital

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"Expert Advice" Feature: A Brilliant Example of Integrating Expert Content on E-commerce Pages One frequent question from e-commerce clients is how to best optimize category pages. Often, content optimization is limited because stores are constrained by their SKUs, filtering options, existing modules, and more. A common suggestion is to integrate existing informational content, like product selection guides and blog posts, onto relevant category pages. While this idea is compelling, a common concern is that such content might hinder the purchasing process. REI has a fantastic solution: creating a dedicated tab at the top of category pages labeled "Expert Advice". This effortlessly connects informational content to the category. Clicking on this module reveals category-related articles (Best Hiking Boots, How to Break in Hiking Boots). This is one of the most creative examples of integrating informational content onto a commercial page. It allows users and search engines to connect informational content to the main page without disrupting the purchasing process. #ecommerce #contentmarketing #ux #seo #digitalmarketing #retail #expertadvice #categorypages

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🚀 Insights from Walmart CEO Doug McMillon on eCommerce and Omnichannel Retail. Brilliant interview, thanks Stratechery. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation: 🔹 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭’𝐬 𝐞𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐄𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Initially, the potential of eCommerce was underestimated, but the acquisition of Jet.com was a game-changer. It brought in essential expertise and new perspectives, enabling Walmart to aggressively pursue and integrate digital retail. 🔹 𝐎𝐦𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Leveraging its vast network of physical stores, Walmart has created a seamless omnichannel experience. With stores in close proximity to customers, especially for groceries, Walmart has a unique competitive edge. Integrating supply chain and technology across channels has enhanced both customer experience and operational efficiency. 🔹 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: The transition to a tech-savvy retailer required adopting agile methodologies and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Significant investments in automation and AI are optimizing Walmart’s supply chains and inventory management, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to retail technology. 🔹 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞: Integrating grocery with eCommerce has been a major advantage for Walmart. The grocery business drives frequent customer visits and supports the broader eCommerce strategy, solidifying Walmart’s market position by offering a comprehensive shopping experience both online and in-store. 🔹 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬: Walmart’s marketplace and its advertising platform, Walmart Connect, are crucial areas of focus. These initiatives aim to diversify revenue streams, enhance customer acquisition, and leverage Walmart's scale in both physical and digital retail. Do you follow Walmart's journey? #EmerceConsulting #Ecommerce #RetailInnovation #Omnichannel #Walmart #Leadership #TechnologyInRetail

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“70% of our customers said they would not buy from us unless they touched and felt the product.” 💬 Here’s another digitally native brand that has seen the power of opening physical stores. Check out the episode to hear the story of apparel retailer UNTUCKit’s growth into brick & mortar and the importance of treating the customer as the channel.    #brickandmortar #retail #retailindustry #customerexperience #retailing 

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Puzzled by Apple's decision to release the VisionPro Headset? You are not alone. I am right there with you.   Wes Davis' story for The Verge gave me a lot more to think about on the topic of just how ill-timed and, even worse, regrettable, the final decision to start selling the gadget to anyone capable of paying the $3,500.00 price has proven to be.   Thanks to Davis for pointing out the nearest "pricey" consumer headset, the Meta Quest 3 weighs in at a distant $500 average sales price (ASP).   Should Apple investors be asking management to explain the decision-making process leading up to start selling a gadget now proven, at least for early adopters like Davis, to be something a lot less than a satisfactory purchase. I think so. What do other readers and even Apple investors think?   #apple #visionproheadset #consumergadgets #vr #consumerduds   https://lnkd.in/eN3RXYZf

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My colleagues @Brian and @Catherine delve into the importance of practicality in Retail's AI-driven future. Emphasizing the significance of informed decisions based on tangible business advantages over unrealistic hype and speculation. Discover how pairing AI with practical strategies success.

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Amazon continuing its test & learn strategy to expand its grocery business. Also noteworthy is that it includes grocery retailers on Amazon.com, not just its own grocery ( continuing to build an ecosystem and offer more to customers) Excerpts: Dive Brief: Amazon announced Tuesday a new grocery subscription available to Prime members and customers using EBT. The subscription, which costs $9.99 per month for Prime members and $4.99 per month for non-Prime members with an EBT card, provides free grocery delivery on orders over $35 across Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market and grocery retailers on Amazon.com such as Cardenas Markets and Save Mart.   The subscription adds to the string of changes Amazon is making to its grocery offerings as it looks to sharpen its presence as a grocer as well as bolster its Prime membership. Dive Insight: Amazon is positioning its new grocery subscription as a “low, monthly fee” that “pays for itself” after one delivery per month. “Our goal is to build a best-in-class grocery shopping experience — whether shopping in-store or online — where Amazon is the first choice for selection, value, and convenience,” Tony Hoggett, senior vice president of worldwide grocery stores at Amazon, said in an emailed statement. “We have many different customers with many different needs, and we want to save them time and money every time they shop for groceries.” Grocery delivery has been one area in particular that Amazon has grappled with recently. In January 2023, Amazon Fresh raised its threshold for free delivery to $150 but then 10 months later lowered that minimum to $100. A month later, Amazon said it started offering grocery delivery and free pickup to non-Prime members in all markets where its Amazon Fresh stores and online services operate, with plans to expand grocery delivery and free pickup from Whole Foods to shoppers who aren’t Prime members. #amazon #grocery #ecosystem

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Retail Today / Retail Renaissance: We are almost at the halfway point in 2024. What are the emerging trends? What retailers get it? #retailtrends Retailers that understand consumers are looking for “value”, not just price. BUT “low prices” still drive sales. It’s a “needs vs wants” environment, unless you can capture the aspirational shoppers attention. #lowprices RETAIL OVERVIEW: The retail industry is being driven by the “Big Three”, WALMART, AMAZON, COSTCO but watch TJX! #walmart #amazon #costco #tjx Home Improvement: HD and Lowes still off their Covid peak years. Ace Hardware with a flash of positive sales. #homedepot #lowes #acehardware Off-Price: This sector is on 🔥🔥🔥, getting stronger everyday. Ross, HomeGoods, Ollie’s, Burlington, Nordstrom Rack, etc… #ross #ollies #burlington #nordstromrack Mid-Tier Department Stores: Yes, Macy’s flashed some positive news but this sector is under tremendous pressure. Kohl’s, JCP and Macy’s are under attack from Fast-Fashion and they lost GenZ. #macys #jcpenny #kohls Speciality Retail: The good news, merchandise/product still matters! You can still make it a “wants” experience with the right product. Dick’s, Abercrombie, Hoka, Vuori, etc… There are hundreds of great brands driving sales through exciting products. #specialityretail Opportunity: Customers are focused on “value” but give them a compelling reason to buy, either through merchandise or experience, maybe both! #merchandise #product #retail #retailindustry #brandexperience #TopRetailExpert

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