TECHNOLOGY

11 Trends Expected to Drive Holiday Shopping
From increased budgets to a desire for free shipping to gifts for pets, PwC’s “2016 Holiday Outlook” report predicts the following trends will drive the upcoming holiday season: 1. Bigger holiday budgets: Shoppers will likely spend 10% more this holiday season; an average of $1,121 each. And consumers with annual household incomes less than $50,000 will likely increase their percentage spending levels even more than consumers overall.
Aldo creates single view of omnichannel shoppers
As consumers connect with their favorite brands, they expect a consistent shopping experience. With the help of Salesforce.com, The Aldo Group consolidated shopper data across its enterprise so it can create a singular shopping experience. By adding a cloud-based platform, Aldo gained 360-degree views of each shopper, a move that provides better insight into their preferences and allows the chain to engage with consumers more effectively.

No shopping on Turkey Day

For the second year in a row, Staples will close its stores on Thanksgiving. Shoppers, however, will be able shop the office supplies giant’s e-commerce site.
Zappos.com takes loyalty to a new level

Zappos.com has found a new way to “wow” its passionate shoppers. In a strategic move to drive engagement, the online shoe retailer launched its first-ever loyalty program. Called Zappos Rewards, the progression-based program will allow customers to earn points toward future purchases, get free expedited shipping on all orders, and receive early access to exclusive products and sales.
Report: Chicago startup teams with Target to take on Amazon Alexa voice search

A Chicago startup has landed partnerships with four major online retailers, including Target, to launch a product meant to rival Amazon’s Alexa, according to the Chicago Tribune.
NRF Study: Facebook leads digital marketing spend

Interactive media continues to shake up retailers’ digital marketing strategies.
Skechers app bridges physical and digital retailing

Skechers now allows shoppers to manage their shopping experience from the palm of their hand.
Sears steers Uber’s rewards program

Sears is hitching a ride with Uber — and inviting its loyal shoppers along. A new program, called Rider Rewards, is designed to award Sears shoppers for using Uber’s ride service. Customers that link their Sears Shop Your Way loyalty plan to their Uber account will earn $2 in loyalty points for every Uber trip they take. Besides points, the loyalty program also tailors deals to members. Drivers can also take advantage of the program, and earn up to $1,000 in certain markets.
Online menswear retailer switches to RFID tags to improve ops

The Black Tux has implemented new RFID tags to speed delivery and improve order accuracy. The online formal wear rental company has implemented RFID tags from Fujitsu Frontech North America Inc., including its new washable UHF RFID fashion tag as well as its rugged linen tag to reduce garment processing time and improve order accuracy.
Survey: Election outcome unlikely to affect holiday spending

Americans will open their purses for holiday shopping regardless of whether Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump wins the election. A survey of American voters by RetailNext found the vast majority will not let the outcome of election 2016 affect their planned spending this coming holiday season.