Research continues to show that while online shopping continues to grow across most demographics, the youngest customers, Gen Z’s remain very comfortable shopping in-store, particularly if it includes a high level of experience, both through tech and touch. Walker Sands research shows 59% of 18 to 25-year-olds prefer a “brand experience”, but it... See more

1- NICHE RICH: Continued Customer Segmentation Refinement

5-THE LINCHPIN: Data and Technology

Resale Gets Real

First described as the “store with no inventory” when introduced in late 2017, it is indeed very much more. The store is built around three key offerings: online order pickup and return, styling services, and tailoring and alterations. Other services vary by location but include nail services, bars, gift wrapping, even stroller cleaning...For... See more

Bridging the Gap Between Convenience and Connection

Just as most retailers came to the realization that being online or offline was no longer an and-or proposition, the same appears to be happening with retail resale and rental.

They (Nordstrom) have remained true to their original proposition of exceptional service, combined with a great product, merchandising, and design. They have also been unafraid to make bold experiments, such as with Nordstrom Local, a concept that fits beautifully into the new world of unified commerce, at the crossroads of online and offline.

The internet has reduced the opportunity costs involved in launching retail concepts, of every size. Overlay that with prevailing attitudes of many Millennials to make a job, rather than take a job, and you have the makings of many new startups. Add some crowdfunding and the power of influencer marketing to take a product from obscurity to ubiquity... See more