Traditional retailers know they must play the digital game to keep up with digital-first competitors like Amazon, but some, like Nordstrom, have been around for more than 100 years. It’s not easy teaching an old brand new tricks, and that’s why many such retailers are instead opting to acquire startups that can then build the capabilities their customers want. Nordstrom was the latest to do so with its BevyUp and MessageYes acquisitions, but it was far from the first or the only.  Read More...

Grocers seek to meet customers where they are on digital platforms, and Kroger is amping up its investments in digital expansion, expanding its home delivery and enhancing its grocery pickup footprint. With more than 1,000 pickup and nearly 900 delivery locations already, it now aims to cover more customers with more omnichannel options, according to chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen. He explains the Kroger's efforts toward a seamless digital shopping experience and integrating ClickList into its other digital offerings.  Read More...

Some retailers see virtual reality as a gimmick, but Barneys New York isn’t one of them. The luxury specialty retailer is leaning on cutting-edge technology to drive its spring Mantle campaign, and it’s not the only retailer treating the trend as more than just a passing fad. Big box retailer Walmart has also been experimenting with the tech — but, like many researchers, it has discovered that virtual reality’s most powerful application may not be in the store at all.  Read More...