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.
Opinion
Health care’s cost is unsustainable
Businesses’ cost concerns and the profitability struggles of providers point to the urgent need for reform.
One 2025 story overshadows the rest
David Pinto looks at the state of retailing as we head into 2026.
The brick-and-mortar renaissance
By Dave Wendland, vice president of strategic relations and a member of the HRG owner group.
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 retail tech arms race is imminent
If Walmart, which continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence and other advanced technology, saw the need to join forces with OpenAI, it’s likely other major retailers that intend to maintain their standing in the marketplace will follow suit.
The transformation of MMR and CDR reflects five seminal industry changes
David Pinto looks at the five major changes in the mass retail market and what we did to reflect those changes
A guide to viability for independent grocers
By Thom Blischok, chairman and chief executive officer of the Dialogic Group LLC.
Instant checkout: Immediate disruption
OpenAI — whose ChatGPT first brought the revolution in artificial intelligence to widespread public attention — upped the ante for retailers and CPG companies late last month with the launch of Instant Checkout, a tool that enables users to purchase products without leaving the platform.
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.
Retailing change is rampant — except where you’d most expect it
David Pinto looks at the worldwide reach of mass retailing.
What retailers can do to put the joy back in gifting
Lori Zumwinkle examines the new opportunities for retailers this upcoming holiday season.
Safe at Home: A public health initiative
By William M. Simpson, President & CEO, DisposeRx, Inc.
Assault on vaccines is a call to arms for Rx
Now changes in federal policy are beginning to have a direct impact on what goes on in the pharmacy.
Elayne Kwait: Always anticipated, never forgotten
David Pinto looks at the laudatory life of Elayne Kwait, who passed away after a long illness last month. He recalls her role in helping put an indelible stamp on chain drug retailing in the 20th century.
