Apple dominated the news this week, with the new iPhone X making headlines (and animoji karaoke taking Twitter by storm — although the actual, intended function of the Face ID technology leaves a bit to be desired). Amazon also had a big news week, with a company veteran taking the helm on its Prime Now, AmazonFresh and Whole Foods strategy and the introduction of its digital cash offering. Here’s what else these giants have been up to, along with the rest of the Frightful Five — Facebook, Google and Microsoft.  Read More...

Retailers large and small can sometimes feel like they are throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what stickswhen it comes to influencing customer behavior. Big Data takes the guesswork out of understanding customers so — according to Vantiv vice president of data products, Nicole Jass — retailers can throw that spaghetti strategically. In a recent interview with Karen Webster, Jass explained that data, properly distilled and synthesized, has the power to change both the merchant’s view of its consumers and the consumer’s view of the merchant — and also what they are willing to buy.  Read More...

Holiday cheer may be in the offing for retailer Macy’s as double-digit boosts in online shopping trends continue. The company missed revenue estimates, but bested earnings per share projections on better inventory management — giving third quarter results a noticeable uplift. And, according to Macy's management, digital will be an ongoing focus and its loyalty programs are gaining traction.  Read More...