Indicators belie deeper economic truth
AI investment has been a major growth engine for the U.S. economy.
Scot Meyer
Walmart and Google announce an agentic AI e-commerce integration at NRF's "Big Show"
The announcement came Sunday at the National Retail Federation’s “Big Show,” where Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, joined John Furner, Walmart’s incoming CEO, on stage to discuss the retailer’s transformation and the role artificial intelligence will play in its future.
Retailers should matter to legislators
Two issues in particular — credit card “swipe fees” and organized retail crime (ORC) — illustrate how slow congressional action and regulatory inertia are costing businesses and consumers alike.
Consumers are resilient, and divided
For nearly one-fifth of consumers, though, the holidays will mean cutting back — constrained by stagnant incomes and persistent unease about the economy’s direction.
A new top item on shopping lists: Health
Wellness is also redefining product innovation. Functional foods and beverages are booming, from probiotic yogurts to protein-infused waters and “mental wellness” drinks designed to improve mood or focus.
Coffee Chat: Pascal Houdayer, Boiron
Boiron’s CEO on integrative Health, homeopathy and the future of holistic care.
Senators voice support for PBM reform
Sens. Ron Wyden (D., Ore.) and Mike Crapo (R., Ind.) joined pharmacy advocates from the across the country at a rally on Capitol Hill this morning to press members of Congress to pass meaningful PBM reform as soon as possible.
Craig Jelinek to step down as Costco CEO
Costco Wholesale Corp. chief executive officer Craig Jelinek intends to step down from that role, effective January 1, 2024.
AI among the hot topics at this year’s Industry Day
Two short spans of time — one just over 7 seconds and the other just under 15 minutes — were among the many talking points at The Emerson Group’s 2023 Industry Day last week. The day-long event brought together retailers and suppliers, brand innovators and other thought leaders to discuss the future
The ‘time is now’ to redefine pharmacy’s role
In its 90th year, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) remains focused on the same yet ever-evolving goal: Leading the future of an industry dedicated to advancing health and wellness for all Americans.
Amazon Prime to include free grocery delivery
Amazon.com Inc. will offer free two-hour grocery delivery to its Prime members, the company said on Tuesday. The move eliminates an additional $14.99 per month fee that Prime members previously had to pay to access the company’s Amazon Fresh grocery delivery service.
WE hosts reception, panel discussion
WE, Empowering Women to Advance Wellness, hosted a reception and panel discussion on mentoring at the National Association of Chain Drug Stores Total Store Expo in Boston.
Judy Sansone to retire from CVS
CVS Health said Saturday that Judy Sansone, the company’s senior vice president of front store business and chief merchant, has decided to retire in September.
GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer close joint venture
GlaxoSmithKline said Thursday that it has closed a previously announced joint venture deal with Pfizer Inc. that will combine their respective consumer healthcare businesses. The move will create the world’s largest supplier of over-the-counter medications.
Walmart names new VP for O-T-Cs
Walmart has transitioned two merchandising executives to new roles. Annie Walker has been named the new vice president of merchandising operations, apparel, for Walmart U.S. She will report to Kevin Pate.