Back-to-school shoppers start early, but focus on value as spending hits record levels
"Affordability is a concern for families and a top priority for retailers as we enter the back-to-school season."
Retail News
Health and Wellness Retail Goes All in on AI
More than 50 AI-enabled exhibitors are set for the 2026 NACDS Total Store Expo.
CRN welcomes new member companies
“CRN continues to attract companies that are committed to advancing science, quality, and responsible innovation throughout the dietary supplement supply chain,” said Steve Mister, president and CEO of CRN.
Retail sales continue to climb in June
Health and personal care stores remained among the strongest retail performers as consumers continued spending during June.
Merchants encourage NCUA to withdraw flawed rule blocking Illinois swipe fee law
The rule “rests on an inaccurate understanding of the modern credit and debit card payments ecosystem and, as a result, does not provide a sound legal basis” for preempting the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act, MPC said.
Sam’s Club, Weight Watchers partner to expand affordable wellness access
The partnership brings together two trusted membership brands amid growing consumer interest in healthy living.
Retailers accelerate imports ahead of expected tariffs
A new NRF report forecasts record container traffic in July as retailers frontload inventory due to trade uncertainty and potential higher import costs.
PLMA: Private label extends unit sales lead in first half of 2026
Private label has outpaced national brands’ unit trend over the past five years, though store brands’ dollar share momentum has softened of late.
Dollar General delivers back-to-school savings
With over 70 back-to-school items priced at $1 or less and flexible shopping options like myDG Delivery, DG makes preparing for the school year easier and more affordable.
Walmart and Sam's Club lower prices to help customers get the most out of summer
Customers and members can save on everything from weekly groceries to family road trips.
Kroger hires Emilee De Martino as EVP and chief people officer
De Martino succeeds Tim Massa, who announced he will be retiring September 18.
Walmart makes personalized wellness more accessible
Walmart is offering GLP-1 support, pharmacy guidance and nutrition assistance and will also hold Wellness Day on July 25.
Amazon ramps up Venezuela disaster response with aid airlift
An Amazon Air flight from Miami to Caracas will carry around 500,000 emergency supplies as the company enhances support for hospitals and shelters.
NRF releases 2026 Top 100 Retailers ranking
“Companies are doing quite well,” said David Marcotte, senior vice president of global insights and technology at Kantar.
Kroger to acquire Giant Eagle chain
Giant Eagle operates 197 supermarkets and 11 standalone pharmacies across northern Ohio, western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland and Indiana.
Amazon ignites Fourth of July savings for Prime Members
Prime members can save $0.50 per gallon on fuel during the Fourth of July weekend, plus savings on barbecue grocery items.