Product Sourcing

A differentiated merchandise assortment is one of the top ways retailers can remain competitive in an economic downturn. Retailers that offer unique, exclusive or sustainable products become differentiated shopping destinations unto themselves. However, as consumers demand more authentic, responsibly made products that either improve communities or better the planet, retailers need to expand their wholesale…

When it comes to luxury goods, the perception of exclusivity and premierness are two very important elements. However, the truly paramount aspect of luxury items that allows for the high price point associated with them is their absolute authenticity. If the authenticity isn't absolute, then it's not luxury. Would it be OK if you were…

As consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands and retailers strive to strengthen their relationship with the consumer, particularly in a retail climate increasingly affected by inflation and supply chain issues, there are two converging trends to consider — enriching the omnichannel shopping experience and meeting specific consumer need states in new ways.  These aren’t new trends, but…

Endless articles and news coverage about the supply chain have surfaced over the last six months, so what's left to be said about the topic? Actually, a lot. The real issue with the supply chain begins at the source and, sourcing, at most companies, rarely has a seat at the proverbial table. Much like the…

J.C. Penney announced on Monday that it's adding Forever 21 to its portfolio of national fashion brands. Shoppers will be able to find Forever 21 products at 100 of the 650 J.C. Penney stores across the nation, as well as on the retailer's website. Apparel items that will be available include tops, bottoms and dresses. The…

Rapper Kayne West filed a lawsuit against Walmart on June 24, alleging that the retailer is knocking off one of his latest shoe designs, Yeezy Foam Runners. According to documents obtained by TMZ, West’s team filed the lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court, citing California’s Unfair Competition Law, which prohibits deceptive business practices. The lawsuit also claims that Walmart…

The pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated the shift to e-commerce by half a decade, with more people than ever before opting to shop online for items like groceries that have always dominated traditional brick-and-mortar retail. Now that customers have experienced the convenience of shopping online for products they never imagined, it’s unlikely that they’ll return to…

COVID-19 has created significant market and supply chain disruptions due to unprecedented shifts in both supply and demand. With retailers and brands cutting inventory, resulting in limited product availability, it's more important than ever that retailers and brands make fast, accurate product design, selection, and pricing decisions to lock in their share of scarce supply.…

As we consider the most significant trends impacting purchasing today, consumer demand for private brands continues to remain a focus, as well as the need for convenient and digitally enhanced shopping solutions. Among the ongoing effects of the pandemic, COVID has forever shifted customer behavior with respect to how consumers shop and what they purchase.…

Retail recovery audits are a proven mechanism for recouping cash lost due to overpayments. A large retailer can recover millions in lost profit and create process improvements that stop leakage from happening in the first place. With today’s renewed focus on accelerating working capital and improving cash flow, getting the audit process right is more…