![\"self-checkout](\"https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/self-checkout-theft.png\")
Companies across industries have begun issuing new fees in response to U.S. tariffs.
\nAnd with those fees, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported Sunday (April 13), comes a message: Please don\u2019t blame us.
\nIn some cases, the report said, these businesses are adding flat fees, while others are charging customers a percentage of the subtotal. The idea is to pass on some of the cost of the tariffs onto consumers, especially on Chinese-made products \u2014\u00a0while placing some responsibility on President Donald Trump.
\n\u201cWe think transparency is the way to go here, and I am giving Trump full credit for his decision to add this tariff to all American consumers,\u201d said Ryan Babenzien, CEO of Jolie, which sells high-end filtered shower heads that are made in China.
\nHe told WSJ to he would add a \u201cTrump Liberation Tariff\u201d to online orders in the weeks ahead, though the amount of that levy will depend on how the larger tariff situation plays out the company\u2019s tariff-cost calculations.
\nOther businesses are being more direct about the tariffs. For example, BigBadToyStore, which sells action figures and collectibles, recently wrote to its customers telling them it would apply a tariff-related fee to preordered items.
\n\u201cI absolutely hate increasing prices to you, but the tariff situation is beyond our control,\u201d wrote Joel Boblit, the company’s president and founder, promising to reduce or remove the charge if the tariffs decreased.\u00a0
\nPYMNTS examined the impact the tariffs are having on the financial services world last week in a conversation with Amias Gerety, partner at QED Investors.
\nThe uncertainty surrounding the tariffs, he told PYMNTS CEO Karen Webster, is the key element undermining financial services, which depend on stability to provide loans, extend credit and make long-term investments.\u00a0
\nConditions being what they are, it\u2019s hard for businesses to make long-term commitments, whether constructing factories, expanding supply chains, or undertaking major projects.\u00a0
\n\u201cFinancial services need certainty,\u201d said Gerety, who served as a Treasury department official under the Obama administration. \u201cIf you\u2019re planning for 10 or 14 years, uncertainty is devastating.\u201d
\nAs companies approach earnings season, investors and executives brace for troubling guidance. Gerety expected sharp downward revisions in forecasts and increased volatility. While first quarter results may seem stable due to positive conditions, they now offer little predictive power given the drastically transformed economic landscape.\u00a0
\nMajor financial institutions, including JPMorgan, have already adjusted their forecasts toward predicting recessionary conditions.
\n\u201cQ1 was still a benign environment,\u201d Gerety said, adding, \u201cbut the environment has changed dramatically, and even guidance will reflect that heightened uncertainty.\u201d
\nThe post Businesses Begin Tacking On Fees in Response to Tariffs appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "Companies across industries have begun issuing new fees in response to U.S. tariffs.\nAnd with those fees, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported Sunday (April 13), comes a message: Please don\u2019t blame us.\nIn some cases, the report said, these businesses are adding flat fees, while others are charging customers a percentage of the subtotal. The idea is to pass on some of the cost of the tariffs onto consumers, especially on Chinese-made products \u2014\u00a0while placing some responsibility on President Donald Trump.\n\u201cWe think transparency is the way to go here, and I am giving Trump full credit for his decision to add this tariff to all American consumers,\u201d said Ryan Babenzien, CEO of Jolie, which sells high-end filtered shower heads that are made in China.\nHe told WSJ to he would add a \u201cTrump Liberation Tariff\u201d to online orders in the weeks ahead, though the amount of that levy will depend on how the larger tariff situation plays out the company\u2019s tariff-cost calculations.\nOther businesses are being more direct about the tariffs. For example, BigBadToyStore, which sells action figures and collectibles, recently wrote to its customers telling them it would apply a tariff-related fee to preordered items.\n\u201cI absolutely hate increasing prices to you, but the tariff situation is beyond our control,\u201d wrote Joel Boblit, the company’s president and founder, promising to reduce or remove the charge if the tariffs decreased.\u00a0\nPYMNTS examined the impact the tariffs are having on the financial services world last week in a conversation with Amias Gerety, partner at QED Investors.\nThe uncertainty surrounding the tariffs, he told PYMNTS CEO Karen Webster, is the key element undermining financial services, which depend on stability to provide loans, extend credit and make long-term investments.\u00a0\nConditions being what they are, it\u2019s hard for businesses to make long-term commitments, whether constructing factories, expanding supply chains, or undertaking major projects.\u00a0\n\u201cFinancial services need certainty,\u201d said Gerety, who served as a Treasury department official under the Obama administration. \u201cIf you\u2019re planning for 10 or 14 years, uncertainty is devastating.\u201d\nAs companies approach earnings season, investors and executives brace for troubling guidance. Gerety expected sharp downward revisions in forecasts and increased volatility. While first quarter results may seem stable due to positive conditions, they now offer little predictive power given the drastically transformed economic landscape.\u00a0\nMajor financial institutions, including JPMorgan, have already adjusted their forecasts toward predicting recessionary conditions.\n\u201cQ1 was still a benign environment,\u201d Gerety said, adding, \u201cbut the environment has changed dramatically, and even guidance will reflect that heightened uncertainty.\u201d\nThe post Businesses Begin Tacking On Fees in Response to Tariffs appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-13T19:31:01-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-13T19:32:31-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/tariffs-fees.jpg", "tags": [ "BigBadToyStore", "Donald Trump", "ecommerce", "Joel Boblit", "Jolie", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "Ryan Babenzien", "small and medium sized businesses", "small businesses", "SMBs", "tariff fees", "tariff markup", "tariffs", "trade war", "What's Hot" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2683066", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/report-five-below-suspends-shipments-from-china-due-to-tariffs/", "title": "Report: Five Below Suspends Shipments From China Due to Tariffs", "content_html": "Discount retail chain Five Below reportedly suspended cargo shipments from China due to the trade war between the country and the U.S.
\nA shipping company used by the retailer told suppliers that Five Below suspended its cargo shipments, that no containers should be delivered to the yard starting Thursday (April 10) and that containers already loaded should be unpacked and returned to the carrier, Bloomberg reported Friday (April 11), citing a letter sent by the shipper to suppliers.
\nIt is not clear if the letter went to all Five Below vendors, or only some, according to the report.
\nReached by PYMNTS, Five Below said in an emailed statement that it has paused orders from China while it evaluates its options for mitigating the tariffs.
\n\u201cFive Below is committed to providing the best trend-right products our customers want and need at a great price,\u201d the statement said. \u201cWe are utilizing several tools to help mitigate tariffs and swiftly assessing the best of many available options for us to continue to bring forward great product at superior value in the current climate. In order to ensure maximum flexibility, we proactively paused orders from China given the escalation in the tariffs as we evaluate all options.\u201d
\nThe most recent tariff increases announced by the U.S. likely pose costs of 90% to 95% for Five Below, the Bloomberg report said, citing an estimate from Oppenheimer analyst Brian Nagel.
\nFive Below Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Kristy Chipman said in March that 60% of the retailer\u2019s total cost of goods are imported from China, either directly or through its domestic vendors, PYMNTS reported at the time.
\n\u201cWe are dealing with the tariffs that are in place today and our mitigation initiatives are well under way,\u201d Chipman said March 19 during the retailer\u2019s quarterly earnings call. \u201cThese initiatives include vendor collaboration, selective price adjustments primarily within our $1 to $5 price points, diversification of sourcing and increasing our focus on product newness.\u201d
\nGlobal container bookings dropped 49% when the period of April 1-8 is compared to the previous week, March 24-31, the Bloomberg report said, citing an estimate from Vizion.
\nIn a blog post announcing that finding, Vizion said that data shows how global shippers are reacting to changes in tariffs.
\n\u201cThis dramatic drop aligned with two key developments: the April 4th U.S. tariff announcement, followed by China\u2019s retaliatory measures announced on April 5th,\u201d the post said. \u201cThe result? A widespread booking freeze, as shippers paused mid-shipment cycle to reassess costs, timelines and broader trade strategy.\u201d
\nThe biggest drops have been seen in discretionary or seasonal categories, the post said.
\nIt was reported April 9 that Amazon canceled orders from multiple vendors in China and other Asian countries after President Donald Trump’s April 2 announcement that the U.S. planned to levy tariffs on goods from more than 180 countries.
\nThe post Report: Five Below Suspends Shipments From China Due to Tariffs appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "Discount retail chain Five Below reportedly suspended cargo shipments from China due to the trade war between the country and the U.S.\nA shipping company used by the retailer told suppliers that Five Below suspended its cargo shipments, that no containers should be delivered to the yard starting Thursday (April 10) and that containers already loaded should be unpacked and returned to the carrier, Bloomberg reported Friday (April 11), citing a letter sent by the shipper to suppliers.\nIt is not clear if the letter went to all Five Below vendors, or only some, according to the report.\nReached by PYMNTS, Five Below said in an emailed statement that it has paused orders from China while it evaluates its options for mitigating the tariffs.\n\u201cFive Below is committed to providing the best trend-right products our customers want and need at a great price,\u201d the statement said. \u201cWe are utilizing several tools to help mitigate tariffs and swiftly assessing the best of many available options for us to continue to bring forward great product at superior value in the current climate. In order to ensure maximum flexibility, we proactively paused orders from China given the escalation in the tariffs as we evaluate all options.\u201d\nThe most recent tariff increases announced by the U.S. likely pose costs of 90% to 95% for Five Below, the Bloomberg report said, citing an estimate from Oppenheimer analyst Brian Nagel.\nFive Below Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Kristy Chipman said in March that 60% of the retailer\u2019s total cost of goods are imported from China, either directly or through its domestic vendors, PYMNTS reported at the time.\n\u201cWe are dealing with the tariffs that are in place today and our mitigation initiatives are well under way,\u201d Chipman said March 19 during the retailer\u2019s quarterly earnings call. \u201cThese initiatives include vendor collaboration, selective price adjustments primarily within our $1 to $5 price points, diversification of sourcing and increasing our focus on product newness.\u201d\nGlobal container bookings dropped 49% when the period of April 1-8 is compared to the previous week, March 24-31, the Bloomberg report said, citing an estimate from Vizion.\nIn a blog post announcing that finding, Vizion said that data shows how global shippers are reacting to changes in tariffs.\n\u201cThis dramatic drop aligned with two key developments: the April 4th U.S. tariff announcement, followed by China\u2019s retaliatory measures announced on April 5th,\u201d the post said. \u201cThe result? A widespread booking freeze, as shippers paused mid-shipment cycle to reassess costs, timelines and broader trade strategy.\u201d\nThe biggest drops have been seen in discretionary or seasonal categories, the post said.\nIt was reported April 9 that Amazon canceled orders from multiple vendors in China and other Asian countries after President Donald Trump’s April 2 announcement that the U.S. planned to levy tariffs on goods from more than 180 countries.\nThe post Report: Five Below Suspends Shipments From China Due to Tariffs appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-11T17:46:58-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-11T18:26:51-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Five-Below-1.jpg", "tags": [ "china", "discount stores", "economy", "Five Below", "imports", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "tariffs", "What's Hot" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2682031", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/amazon-and-walmart-overhaul-supply-chains-as-china-tariffs-bite/", "title": "Amazon and Walmart Overhaul Supply Chains as China Tariffs Bite", "content_html": "When Walmart, the largest retailer in the U.S., abruptly withdrew its first-quarter operating income guidance last week, the message was unmistakable: the tariff storm is shaking the foundations of retail planning. The announcement, citing the need to maintain pricing flexibility amid newly implemented tariffs, is emblematic of the intense pressure facing multinational retailers in a geopolitically charged economic environment.
\nFor retail giants Amazon and Walmart, the realities of today\u2019s macro landscape mark a broader inflection point where the behemoths are recalibrating everything, from procurement strategies to pricing models, in order to stay resilient.
\nWhile the U.S.-led tariff tilt-a-whirl may have been paused for now, the duties in place on China remain. They are continuing to reverberate through the corridors of global retail. For companies like Walmart and Amazon, which rely heavily on Asian suppliers, the increased duties are significantly altering cost structures.
\nWalmart\u2019s withdrawal of income projections was as much about signaling to investors as it was a logistical recalibration. With cost volatility in imported goods, particularly consumer electronics, apparel and home goods, Walmart needs maneuverability to protect its value proposition: low prices. Maintaining that edge while preserving margins is a delicate balancing act that tariffs make even more precarious.
\nAmazon, meanwhile, is taking a more aggressive, if quieter, stance. According to reports, the eCommerce titan has canceled orders from several Asian vendors in the wake of the tariffs. These preemptive cancellations are aimed at curbing financial exposure but have also created ripple effects throughout its sprawling supplier network.
\nIn a parallel development, many Chinese sellers on Amazon are facing a stark choice: raise prices or exit the U.S. market altogether. With tariffs sharply increasing logistics and production costs, profit margins have thinned to unsustainable levels. Some sellers have opted to shift inventory to non-U.S. marketplaces, while others are looking to re-source their goods through Southeast Asia or Latin America \u2014 regions not currently subject to the same trade penalties.
\nAccording to PYMNTS Intelligence research, 60% of CFOs expect the tariffs to bring about additional economic uncertainty and planning challenges. The research also found that\u00a0almost 70% of finance chiefs foresee supply shortages and product delays, with a similar share executing new costs to restructure their supply chains.
\nRead more: Walmart Takes Pricing Fight to Suppliers as Amazon Mulls TikTok Bid
\nEven as Amazon trims its vendor list, it\u2019s pushing the boundaries of operational innovation. In a surprising move, the company has begun testing a pilot program that equips its delivery drivers with defibrillators, enabling them to respond to emergency calls en route.
\nThis initiative, while seemingly out of left field, is aligned with Amazon\u2019s long-term playbook: deepen integration into daily life. Beyond potential PR wins and community goodwill, the program could serve as a proof-of-concept for expanding Amazon\u2019s logistics network into new service categories \u2014 from healthcare to smart-city infrastructure.
\nWhile tariffs tighten profit margins, the battle for consumer loyalty is also pushing retailers to double down on expansion. Sam\u2019s Club, Walmart\u2019s membership-based warehouse chain, has announced plans to open 15 new stores annually. The strategy targets budget-conscious consumers seeking value during times of economic strain.
\nAnd amid the scramble to manage tariffs and revamp operations, Amazon is eyeing a different kind of prize: federal software contracts. As the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) pushes to overhaul outdated systems, the eCommerce giant reportedly sees an opportunity to anchor itself in the $200 billion government IT market.
\n\u200bIn his 2024 letter to shareholders, published Thursday (April 10), Amazon CEO Andy Jassy emphasized the transformative potential of GenAI, stating that it is poised to reinvent virtually every customer experience and enable new ones.\u00a0
\nHe noted that Amazon is investing aggressively in AI technologies, including the development of custom AI chips like Trainium2, to reduce costs and improve performance. Jassy asserted that companies not planning to leverage these intelligent models risk becoming uncompetitive.\u00a0
\nAmazon competitor Walmart is not one of those companies facing that danger. On Wednesday (April 9), Walmart launched Trend-to-Product, a new proprietary tech solution created to support Walmart\u2019s designers and merchants that uses AI and GenAI to analyze and synthesize global data and trends, pulling information from the internet and tastemakers to power the Walmart Fashion team in creating on-trend, high-quality items.
\nUltimately, the themes this week highlight the significant impact of recent tariffs on retail strategies and supply chains, as well as the efforts by the world\u2019s largest retailers to innovate and expand their operations in response to evolving market conditions.\u200b
\nThe post Amazon and Walmart Overhaul Supply Chains as China Tariffs Bite appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "When Walmart, the largest retailer in the U.S., abruptly withdrew its first-quarter operating income guidance last week, the message was unmistakable: the tariff storm is shaking the foundations of retail planning. The announcement, citing the need to maintain pricing flexibility amid newly implemented tariffs, is emblematic of the intense pressure facing multinational retailers in a geopolitically charged economic environment.\nFor retail giants Amazon and Walmart, the realities of today\u2019s macro landscape mark a broader inflection point where the behemoths are recalibrating everything, from procurement strategies to pricing models, in order to stay resilient.\nTariff Ripple Requires Real-Time Strategic Shifts\nWhile the U.S.-led tariff tilt-a-whirl may have been paused for now, the duties in place on China remain. They are continuing to reverberate through the corridors of global retail. For companies like Walmart and Amazon, which rely heavily on Asian suppliers, the increased duties are significantly altering cost structures.\nWalmart\u2019s withdrawal of income projections was as much about signaling to investors as it was a logistical recalibration. With cost volatility in imported goods, particularly consumer electronics, apparel and home goods, Walmart needs maneuverability to protect its value proposition: low prices. Maintaining that edge while preserving margins is a delicate balancing act that tariffs make even more precarious.\nAmazon, meanwhile, is taking a more aggressive, if quieter, stance. According to reports, the eCommerce titan has canceled orders from several Asian vendors in the wake of the tariffs. These preemptive cancellations are aimed at curbing financial exposure but have also created ripple effects throughout its sprawling supplier network.\nIn a parallel development, many Chinese sellers on Amazon are facing a stark choice: raise prices or exit the U.S. market altogether. With tariffs sharply increasing logistics and production costs, profit margins have thinned to unsustainable levels. Some sellers have opted to shift inventory to non-U.S. marketplaces, while others are looking to re-source their goods through Southeast Asia or Latin America \u2014 regions not currently subject to the same trade penalties.\nAccording to PYMNTS Intelligence research, 60% of CFOs expect the tariffs to bring about additional economic uncertainty and planning challenges. The research also found that\u00a0almost 70% of finance chiefs foresee supply shortages and product delays, with a similar share executing new costs to restructure their supply chains.\nRead more: Walmart Takes Pricing Fight to Suppliers as Amazon Mulls TikTok Bid\nExpansion as Defense in Today\u2019s Environment \nEven as Amazon trims its vendor list, it\u2019s pushing the boundaries of operational innovation. In a surprising move, the company has begun testing a pilot program that equips its delivery drivers with defibrillators, enabling them to respond to emergency calls en route.\nThis initiative, while seemingly out of left field, is aligned with Amazon\u2019s long-term playbook: deepen integration into daily life. Beyond potential PR wins and community goodwill, the program could serve as a proof-of-concept for expanding Amazon\u2019s logistics network into new service categories \u2014 from healthcare to smart-city infrastructure.\nWhile tariffs tighten profit margins, the battle for consumer loyalty is also pushing retailers to double down on expansion. Sam\u2019s Club, Walmart\u2019s membership-based warehouse chain, has announced plans to open 15 new stores annually. The strategy targets budget-conscious consumers seeking value during times of economic strain.\nAnd amid the scramble to manage tariffs and revamp operations, Amazon is eyeing a different kind of prize: federal software contracts. As the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) pushes to overhaul outdated systems, the eCommerce giant reportedly sees an opportunity to anchor itself in the $200 billion government IT market.\nEmbracing Technology to Innovate and Grow \n\u200bIn his 2024 letter to shareholders, published Thursday (April 10), Amazon CEO Andy Jassy emphasized the transformative potential of GenAI, stating that it is poised to reinvent virtually every customer experience and enable new ones.\u00a0\nHe noted that Amazon is investing aggressively in AI technologies, including the development of custom AI chips like Trainium2, to reduce costs and improve performance. Jassy asserted that companies not planning to leverage these intelligent models risk becoming uncompetitive.\u00a0\nAmazon competitor Walmart is not one of those companies facing that danger. On Wednesday (April 9), Walmart launched Trend-to-Product, a new proprietary tech solution created to support Walmart\u2019s designers and merchants that uses AI and GenAI to analyze and synthesize global data and trends, pulling information from the internet and tastemakers to power the Walmart Fashion team in creating on-trend, high-quality items.\nUltimately, the themes this week highlight the significant impact of recent tariffs on retail strategies and supply chains, as well as the efforts by the world\u2019s largest retailers to innovate and expand their operations in response to evolving market conditions.\u200b\nThe post Amazon and Walmart Overhaul Supply Chains as China Tariffs Bite appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-11T04:00:37-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-10T21:11:48-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Amazon-Walmart-tariffs-retail-economy.jpg", "tags": [ "AI", "Amazon", "Amazon vs Walmart", "artificial intelligence", "brick and mortar", "china", "Donald Trump", "ecommerce", "economy", "Featured News", "GenAI", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "sam's club", "Supply Chain", "supply chain management", "tariffs", "trade war", "trump administration", "walmart" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2681117", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/sams-club-accelerates-store-openings-anticipates-more-business-in-tough-times/", "title": "Sam\u2019s Club Accelerates Store Openings, Anticipates More Business in \u2018Tough Times\u2019", "content_html": "Walmart\u2019s warehouse club business, Sam\u2019s Club, reportedly plans to open 15 stores per year, saying its ability to save customers money is even more relevant in uncertain times.
\nThe retailer\u2019s plan for new stores marks an acceleration, as it said two years ago that it would open 30 stores in five years, CNBC reported Wednesday (April 9).
\nSam\u2019s Club CEO Chris Nicholas said in the report that the business expects to gain customers as they look to save money in tough economic times.
\n\u201cIn times of plenty, we do well. But in tough times, we do really well,\u201d Nicholas told CNBC in an interview.
\nNicholas announced the retailer\u2019s plans during Walmart\u2019s investor day held Wednesday, according to the report.
\nHe also said Sam\u2019s Club plans to renovate all of its locations in the U.S., which number about 600, per the report.
\nBoth the remodeled locations and the new ones will adopt an \u201call-digital\u201d format introduced in October at a Sam\u2019s Club in Grapevine, Texas, according to the report. That format includes no checkout lanes, store displays of items sold only online, and a larger area for fulfilling orders placed online and either picked up at curbside or delivered to the customer\u2019s home.
\nSam\u2019s Club also expects to double its membership over the next eight to 10 years, helped in part by the new stores, per the report.
\nOther warehouse clubs have also announced growth plans, with Costco planning to open 28 new stores in its current fiscal year and BJ\u2019s Wholesale Club planning to add 25 to 30 new stores over the next two fiscal years, the report said.
\nIn a press release issued Wednesday ahead of its investor day, Walmart said that it added 373 stores and clubs over the past two years, while renovating another 1,930, and that the convenience of faster delivery, curbside pickup and in-store shopping are helping drive the company\u2019s growth.
\n\u201cHistory tells us that when we lean into these periods of uncertainty, Walmart emerges on the other side with greater share and a stronger business,\u201d John David Rainey, executive vice president and chief financial officer at Walmart, said in the release.
\nThe post Sam\u2019s Club Accelerates Store Openings, Anticipates More Business in \u2018Tough Times\u2019 appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "Walmart\u2019s warehouse club business, Sam\u2019s Club, reportedly plans to open 15 stores per year, saying its ability to save customers money is even more relevant in uncertain times.\nThe retailer\u2019s plan for new stores marks an acceleration, as it said two years ago that it would open 30 stores in five years, CNBC reported Wednesday (April 9).\nSam\u2019s Club CEO Chris Nicholas said in the report that the business expects to gain customers as they look to save money in tough economic times.\n\u201cIn times of plenty, we do well. But in tough times, we do really well,\u201d Nicholas told CNBC in an interview.\nNicholas announced the retailer\u2019s plans during Walmart\u2019s investor day held Wednesday, according to the report.\nHe also said Sam\u2019s Club plans to renovate all of its locations in the U.S., which number about 600, per the report.\nBoth the remodeled locations and the new ones will adopt an \u201call-digital\u201d format introduced in October at a Sam\u2019s Club in Grapevine, Texas, according to the report. That format includes no checkout lanes, store displays of items sold only online, and a larger area for fulfilling orders placed online and either picked up at curbside or delivered to the customer\u2019s home.\nSam\u2019s Club also expects to double its membership over the next eight to 10 years, helped in part by the new stores, per the report.\nOther warehouse clubs have also announced growth plans, with Costco planning to open 28 new stores in its current fiscal year and BJ\u2019s Wholesale Club planning to add 25 to 30 new stores over the next two fiscal years, the report said.\nIn a press release issued Wednesday ahead of its investor day, Walmart said that it added 373 stores and clubs over the past two years, while renovating another 1,930, and that the convenience of faster delivery, curbside pickup and in-store shopping are helping drive the company\u2019s growth.\n\u201cHistory tells us that when we lean into these periods of uncertainty, Walmart emerges on the other side with greater share and a stronger business,\u201d John David Rainey, executive vice president and chief financial officer at Walmart, said in the release.\nThe post Sam\u2019s Club Accelerates Store Openings, Anticipates More Business in \u2018Tough Times\u2019 appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-09T14:57:10-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-09T14:57:10-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Sams-Club.jpg", "tags": [ "brick and mortar", "discount stores", "economy", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "sam's club", "walmart", "warehouse clubs", "Warehouse Stores", "What's Hot" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2669678", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/shein-and-temu-face-massive-roadblock-with-new-package-duties/", "title": "Shein and Temu Face Massive Roadblock With New Package Duties", "content_html": "New tariffs on low-value packages from China could hinder the plans of Shein and Temu.
\nAs the Financial Times (FT)\u00a0reported\u00a0Wednesday (April 9), the White House has upped duties on those packages to 90% of their value, or a flat fee of $75 that would increase to $150. The duty goes into effect May 2, with the flat-fee hike happening after June 1.
\nThe shift follows President Donald Trump\u2019s closing of a loophole that allowed Chinese imports under\u00a0the \u201cde minimis\u201d threshold\u00a0of $800 to arrive duty-free.
\nAs the FT notes, this increase is a major blow to eCommerce fast fashion retailers Shein and Temu in the U.S., considered to be their largest market. The two companies have been able to compete by offering what the report characterizes as \u201ceye-wateringly cheap\u201d products, in part by avoiding import duties.
\nAnalysts warn that closing the de minimis loophole will both upend the business models of these cheap retail platforms and other Chinese eCommerce firms while also slowing deliveries, the report added.
\nBrittain Ladd, a U.S. supply chain consultant who has worked for Amazon and Dell, told the FT that ports would be flooded with packages.
\nLadd added that the commerce department had introduced a new software system to manage the duty payments, but there would still be delays as \u201cthe volume of packages that have to be processed is massive.\u201d
\nMeanwhile, PYMNTS on Wednesday examined the way\u00a0artificial intelligence (AI)\u00a0can help businesses mitigate some of the impacts of the tariffs.
\n\u201cTariffs,\u00a0like any crisis, are extremely dynamic \u2014 and the latest round that imposed tariffs on all U.S. importers is a perfect example,\u201d Leagh Turner, CEO of Coupa Software, told PYMNTS.
\n\u201cThey impact businesses in different ways depending on their country, product type and trade relationships. That makes it difficult for leaders to predict the full impact to their business.\u201d
\nBut with AI, that report added, companies can monitor and understand shifting tariff policies in real time, allowing them to pivot more quickly.
\n\u201cAI-powered trade policy monitoring scans government announcements and regulatory updates to forecast potential tariff shifts,\u201d\u00a0Tarun Chandrasekhar, president and CPO at\u00a0Syndigo, said in an interview with PYMNTS.
\nHe added that historical analysis of earlier trade policies and macroeconomic trends can find patterns that can provide brands with insight into how possible future\u00a0tariff increases\u00a0or decreases could affect them, such as how tariffs on specific materials impacted sales of certain clothing items.
\nThe post Shein and Temu Face Massive Roadblock With New Package Duties appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "New tariffs on low-value packages from China could hinder the plans of Shein and Temu.\nAs the Financial Times (FT)\u00a0reported\u00a0Wednesday (April 9), the White House has upped duties on those packages to 90% of their value, or a flat fee of $75 that would increase to $150. The duty goes into effect May 2, with the flat-fee hike happening after June 1.\nThe shift follows President Donald Trump\u2019s closing of a loophole that allowed Chinese imports under\u00a0the \u201cde minimis\u201d threshold\u00a0of $800 to arrive duty-free.\nAs the FT notes, this increase is a major blow to eCommerce fast fashion retailers Shein and Temu in the U.S., considered to be their largest market. The two companies have been able to compete by offering what the report characterizes as \u201ceye-wateringly cheap\u201d products, in part by avoiding import duties.\nAnalysts warn that closing the de minimis loophole will both upend the business models of these cheap retail platforms and other Chinese eCommerce firms while also slowing deliveries, the report added.\nBrittain Ladd, a U.S. supply chain consultant who has worked for Amazon and Dell, told the FT that ports would be flooded with packages.\nLadd added that the commerce department had introduced a new software system to manage the duty payments, but there would still be delays as \u201cthe volume of packages that have to be processed is massive.\u201d\nMeanwhile, PYMNTS on Wednesday examined the way\u00a0artificial intelligence (AI)\u00a0can help businesses mitigate some of the impacts of the tariffs.\n\u201cTariffs,\u00a0like any crisis, are extremely dynamic \u2014 and the latest round that imposed tariffs on all U.S. importers is a perfect example,\u201d Leagh Turner, CEO of Coupa Software, told PYMNTS.\n\u201cThey impact businesses in different ways depending on their country, product type and trade relationships. That makes it difficult for leaders to predict the full impact to their business.\u201d\nBut with AI, that report added, companies can monitor and understand shifting tariff policies in real time, allowing them to pivot more quickly.\n\u201cAI-powered trade policy monitoring scans government announcements and regulatory updates to forecast potential tariff shifts,\u201d\u00a0Tarun Chandrasekhar, president and CPO at\u00a0Syndigo, said in an interview with PYMNTS.\nHe added that historical analysis of earlier trade policies and macroeconomic trends can find patterns that can provide brands with insight into how possible future\u00a0tariff increases\u00a0or decreases could affect them, such as how tariffs on specific materials impacted sales of certain clothing items.\nThe post Shein and Temu Face Massive Roadblock With New Package Duties appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-09T08:38:43-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-09T08:38:43-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Trump-tariffs-Shein-Temu.png", "tags": [ "china", "de minimis threshold", "ecommerce", "fast fashion", "import duties", "imports", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "shein", "tariffs", "temu", "trade", "trade war", "What's Hot" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2646811", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/levi-strauss-becomes-d2c-first-company-as-that-business-reaches-52-of-revenue/", "title": "Levi Strauss Becomes \u2018D2C-First Company\u2019 as That Business Reaches 52% of Revenue", "content_html": "Levi Strauss & Co. said it saw better-than-expected financial results in the first quarter as it continued to increase its focus on the direct-to-consumer (D2C) business.
\nAt the end of the quarter, the D2C business accounted for 52% of the apparel company\u2019s total global net revenues, according to a Monday (April 7) earnings release.
\nThat figure was up 2 percentage points from a year earlier and, as it accounted for more than half of revenues, marked a milestone in the company\u2019s transformation into \u201ca D2C-first company,\u201d Michelle Gass, president and CEO of Levi Strauss, said Monday during a quarterly earnings call.
\n\u201cDirect-to-consumer continues to be the primary growth driver, up 12%, fueled by positive comp growth, successful new openings and strong eCom performance,\u201d Gass said.
\nThe shift to D2C will result in \u201cmore productive and profitable doors,\u201d Gass said, adding that the company expects to build several hundred more stores in the future.
\nLevi Strauss aims to have D2C account for 55% of its business over the longer term, even as it expands its wholesale business as well, she said.
\nThe wholesale business was up 5% during the quarter, driven by door expansion, more space at existing stores and a wider lifestyle assortment.
\n\u201cConsistent with our strategy to diversify our channels of business, U.S. department stores now represent just 7%, which is less than half of what it was 10 years ago,\u201d Gass said.
\nIn another change, Levi Strauss announced in the earnings release that it reclassified its Dockers business as \u201cdiscontinued operations\u201d in the first quarter. The company disclosed during the fourth quarter that it plans to sell the Dockers business, and it said in the Monday earnings release that it aims to complete a sale during the current fiscal year.
\nAsked about the impact of tariffs, Gass said during the call that Levi Strauss is well positioned to navigate this challenge because almost 60% of its revenue is generated outside the U.S. and it has an \u201cagile global supply chain\u201d and deep vendor relationships.
\nHarmit Singh, chief financial and growth officer at Levi Strauss, said during the call that the company has already imported to the U.S. most of the product it needs for the spring and early summer.
\nSingh added that in terms of share of product imported into the U.S., China accounts for 1%; Mexico, 5%; and Vietnam, mid- to high-single digits.
\nGass said during the call: \u201cI\u2019d say our supply chain is more agile today than it ever has been. We make pivots all the time. We will continue to do so as we look to address the issues both in the short, medium and long term.\u201d
\nThe post Levi Strauss Becomes \u2018D2C-First Company\u2019 as That Business Reaches 52% of Revenue appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "Levi Strauss & Co. said it saw better-than-expected financial results in the first quarter as it continued to increase its focus on the direct-to-consumer (D2C) business.\nAt the end of the quarter, the D2C business accounted for 52% of the apparel company\u2019s total global net revenues, according to a Monday (April 7) earnings release.\nThat figure was up 2 percentage points from a year earlier and, as it accounted for more than half of revenues, marked a milestone in the company\u2019s transformation into \u201ca D2C-first company,\u201d Michelle Gass, president and CEO of Levi Strauss, said Monday during a quarterly earnings call.\n\u201cDirect-to-consumer continues to be the primary growth driver, up 12%, fueled by positive comp growth, successful new openings and strong eCom performance,\u201d Gass said.\nThe shift to D2C will result in \u201cmore productive and profitable doors,\u201d Gass said, adding that the company expects to build several hundred more stores in the future.\nLevi Strauss aims to have D2C account for 55% of its business over the longer term, even as it expands its wholesale business as well, she said.\nThe wholesale business was up 5% during the quarter, driven by door expansion, more space at existing stores and a wider lifestyle assortment.\n\u201cConsistent with our strategy to diversify our channels of business, U.S. department stores now represent just 7%, which is less than half of what it was 10 years ago,\u201d Gass said.\nIn another change, Levi Strauss announced in the earnings release that it reclassified its Dockers business as \u201cdiscontinued operations\u201d in the first quarter. The company disclosed during the fourth quarter that it plans to sell the Dockers business, and it said in the Monday earnings release that it aims to complete a sale during the current fiscal year.\nAsked about the impact of tariffs, Gass said during the call that Levi Strauss is well positioned to navigate this challenge because almost 60% of its revenue is generated outside the U.S. and it has an \u201cagile global supply chain\u201d and deep vendor relationships.\nHarmit Singh, chief financial and growth officer at Levi Strauss, said during the call that the company has already imported to the U.S. most of the product it needs for the spring and early summer.\nSingh added that in terms of share of product imported into the U.S., China accounts for 1%; Mexico, 5%; and Vietnam, mid- to high-single digits.\nGass said during the call: \u201cI\u2019d say our supply chain is more agile today than it ever has been. We make pivots all the time. We will continue to do so as we look to address the issues both in the short, medium and long term.\u201d\nThe post Levi Strauss Becomes \u2018D2C-First Company\u2019 as That Business Reaches 52% of Revenue appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-08T21:19:20-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-08T21:19:20-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Levi-Strauss-4.jpg", "tags": [ "branded stores", "D2C", "direct-to-customer", "Earnings", "ecommerce", "Levi Strauss", "Michelle Gass", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "What's Hot" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2619449", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/best-buy-launches-creator-program-with-influencer-storefronts/", "title": "Best Buy Launches Creator Program With Influencer Storefronts", "content_html": "Best Buy\u00a0has debuted a platform that lets creators and influencers collaborate with the retailer.
\nThe company\u00a0announced\u00a0its Best Buy Creator program Tuesday (April 8) in conjunction with Best Buy Storefronts, a \u201ccurated shopping experience\u201d where customers can shop tech from their favorite influencers and creators.
\n\u201cStorefronts give creators the ability to create a one-stop shop to highlight tech features in their content and earn a commission on sales referred through their storefront, with no commission cap,\u201d Best Buy said in a news release.
\nAccording to the release, a number of leading tech influencers are joining the launch with their own storefronts. These include\u00a0Linus Sebastian\u00a0of Linus Tech Tips, who has more than 16 million YouTube subscribers and 8 billion views; tech reviewer\u00a0Judner Aura, also known as UrAvgConsumer; and tech and lifestyle creator\u00a0Jenna Ezarik.
\n\u201cWe know shoppers love to be inspired and discover innovative tech from their favorite content creators,\u201d said Jennie Weber, Best Buy\u2019s chief marketing officer. \u201cWe\u2019re excited to launch the Best Buy Creator program and empower creators to turn their passion and authenticity into a shoppable retail experience that\u2019s fun, inspirational and convenient.\u201d
\nBest Buy had hinted at the\u00a0launch of this program\u00a0last month during its quarterly earnings call.
\n\u201cInfluencers and creators will be able to build their own branded digital storefronts on Best Buy\u2019s website, which we expect to drive increased traffic, engagement and sales,\u201d CEO Corie Barry said at the time.
\nMeanwhile, recent PYMNTS Intelligence research has found that while influencers do live up to their name in convincing shoppers to make purchases, the picture is more complicated.
\nThe report\u00a0\u201cGenerational Pulse: Just How Influential Are Influencers?\u201d found a considerable percentage of consumers make some purchasing decisions based on the recommendations, comments or links provided by influencers.
\nHowever, that share falls significantly in terms of regular purchases, with only 1 in 8 consumers reporting that they follow the lead of influencers when it comes to being incentivized to make frequent purchases.
\n\u201cAnd clicking through to the buy button hardly occurs in a vacuum,\u201d PYMNTS wrote. \u201cThe data shows that 95% of consumers\u00a0do some other form of research \u2014 leading to product reviews and platforms \u2014 in tandem with taking the influencers\u2019 opinions into account.\u201d
\nThe post Best Buy Launches Creator Program With Influencer Storefronts appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "Best Buy\u00a0has debuted a platform that lets creators and influencers collaborate with the retailer.\nThe company\u00a0announced\u00a0its Best Buy Creator program Tuesday (April 8) in conjunction with Best Buy Storefronts, a \u201ccurated shopping experience\u201d where customers can shop tech from their favorite influencers and creators.\n\u201cStorefronts give creators the ability to create a one-stop shop to highlight tech features in their content and earn a commission on sales referred through their storefront, with no commission cap,\u201d Best Buy said in a news release.\nAccording to the release, a number of leading tech influencers are joining the launch with their own storefronts. These include\u00a0Linus Sebastian\u00a0of Linus Tech Tips, who has more than 16 million YouTube subscribers and 8 billion views; tech reviewer\u00a0Judner Aura, also known as UrAvgConsumer; and tech and lifestyle creator\u00a0Jenna Ezarik.\n\u201cWe know shoppers love to be inspired and discover innovative tech from their favorite content creators,\u201d said Jennie Weber, Best Buy\u2019s chief marketing officer. \u201cWe\u2019re excited to launch the Best Buy Creator program and empower creators to turn their passion and authenticity into a shoppable retail experience that\u2019s fun, inspirational and convenient.\u201d\nBest Buy had hinted at the\u00a0launch of this program\u00a0last month during its quarterly earnings call.\n\u201cInfluencers and creators will be able to build their own branded digital storefronts on Best Buy\u2019s website, which we expect to drive increased traffic, engagement and sales,\u201d CEO Corie Barry said at the time.\nMeanwhile, recent PYMNTS Intelligence research has found that while influencers do live up to their name in convincing shoppers to make purchases, the picture is more complicated.\nThe report\u00a0\u201cGenerational Pulse: Just How Influential Are Influencers?\u201d found a considerable percentage of consumers make some purchasing decisions based on the recommendations, comments or links provided by influencers.\nHowever, that share falls significantly in terms of regular purchases, with only 1 in 8 consumers reporting that they follow the lead of influencers when it comes to being incentivized to make frequent purchases.\n\u201cAnd clicking through to the buy button hardly occurs in a vacuum,\u201d PYMNTS wrote. \u201cThe data shows that 95% of consumers\u00a0do some other form of research \u2014 leading to product reviews and platforms \u2014 in tandem with taking the influencers\u2019 opinions into account.\u201d\nThe post Best Buy Launches Creator Program With Influencer Storefronts appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-08T14:37:24-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-08T14:37:24-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Best-Buy.jpg", "tags": [ "Best Buy", "Best Buy Creator program", "creator economy", "digital transformation", "ecommerce", "Influencers", "News", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "Social Media", "What's Hot" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2566318", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/stop-the-steal-smart-stores-help-brands-meet-consumers-in-new-settings/", "title": "Stop the Steal: Smart Stores Help Brands Meet Consumers in New Settings", "content_html": "Inventory keeps retailers in business. Inventory keeps consumers loyal to their preferred to merchants. Inventory makes impulse buying possible and keeps sales flowing.
\nInventory has also, for a long time, been a bit of a hit-or-miss proposition \u2014 merchants might have too much stock on hand, languishing on shelves, ripe for markdowns. Or there might be too little on hand, which would send disappointed customers to the nearest competitor. In at least some cases, and notably so during recent years and with the rise of self-checkout, theft depletes inventory.
\nIn fact, studies have shown that a significant percentage of consumers have admitted to using self-checkout kiosks to aid them in their stealing; locked-up inventory, on the other hand, tends to discourage shopping \u2014 and, certainly, browsing, which depends on a tactile experience. You can\u2019t examine a new shaving cream\u2019s ingredients, for example, if it\u2019s sequestered behind an alarmed sheet of plastic.
\n
In the report recently done in collaboration between PYMNTS Intelligence and Cantaloupe, \u201cOvercoming Retail Challenges: Smart Stores to the Rescue,\u201d we found that with the rise of \u201csmart stores,\u201d which connect security and analytics, the state of inventory management improves, and keeping the right goods in stock, and on hand, becomes more science than art.
\n\u201cNext-gen self-service commerce is redrawing the boundaries of conventional retail, enabling businesses to embed commerce directly within consumer environments and capture previously inaccessible market opportunities,\u201d PYMNTS wrote.
\nUnderpinning it all \u2014 and especially where inventory has been concerned \u2014 artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and even weighted shelf sensors, have improved record keeping in terms of the items that are in demand (or are not).
\nThese advanced technologies such as those found in Cantaloupe\u2019s Smart Stores, which include weighted-shelf technology and built-in tracking cameras, help keep an eye on which items are being sold with 99% accuracy. IoT-enabled systems, which enable data to cross a broad range of devices and anticipate which inventory needs to be replaced \u2014 and when \u2014 weave real-time visibility into inventory levels.
\nThere\u2019s the ability, too, to adjust pricing in order to help boost consumer interest in buying an item (and thus render inventory management more efficient). As a result, there\u2019s the dual satisfaction, on the part of the merchant, of avoiding stockouts and increasing sales.
\nThe data show that self-service retailers can recalibrate stock allocations and product assortments with precision and in a fluid manner as consumers\u2019 tastes change \u2014 and the proof is in the top line. Surveys of the Smart Store metrics show that early adopters of these solutions have already reported an average 30% increase in sales relative to pre-implementation levels.
\nThere\u2019s also the reduced operational cost tied to staff \u2014 better inventory management means that less time and money, in terms of back-room and shelf-stocking efforts, must be expended just to keep products available.
\nThe convergence of smarter technologies in the service of retail has improved commerce even in settings that might not be conventionally thought of as retail. Consider the example where, as PYMNTS Intelligence and Cantaloupe found, a college campus, after replacing vending machines with Smart Stores drove a more than 250% weekly increase in sales. Revenues surged, from $450\u2013$600 to $1,600 per week. Restocking efficiency was just as compelling, with a restocking time of only 1.5 minutes per Smart Store unit.
\nThe post Stop the Steal: Smart Stores Help Brands Meet Consumers in New Settings appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "Inventory keeps retailers in business. Inventory keeps consumers loyal to their preferred to merchants. Inventory makes impulse buying possible and keeps sales flowing.\nInventory has also, for a long time, been a bit of a hit-or-miss proposition \u2014 merchants might have too much stock on hand, languishing on shelves, ripe for markdowns. Or there might be too little on hand, which would send disappointed customers to the nearest competitor. In at least some cases, and notably so during recent years and with the rise of self-checkout, theft depletes inventory.\nIn fact, studies have shown that a significant percentage of consumers have admitted to using self-checkout kiosks to aid them in their stealing; locked-up inventory, on the other hand, tends to discourage shopping \u2014 and, certainly, browsing, which depends on a tactile experience. You can\u2019t examine a new shaving cream\u2019s ingredients, for example, if it\u2019s sequestered behind an alarmed sheet of plastic.\n\nIn the report recently done in collaboration between PYMNTS Intelligence and Cantaloupe, \u201cOvercoming Retail Challenges: Smart Stores to the Rescue,\u201d we found that with the rise of \u201csmart stores,\u201d which connect security and analytics, the state of inventory management improves, and keeping the right goods in stock, and on hand, becomes more science than art.\n\u201cNext-gen self-service commerce is redrawing the boundaries of conventional retail, enabling businesses to embed commerce directly within consumer environments and capture previously inaccessible market opportunities,\u201d PYMNTS wrote.\nUnderpinning it all \u2014 and especially where inventory has been concerned \u2014 artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and even weighted shelf sensors, have improved record keeping in terms of the items that are in demand (or are not).\nAdvanced Technologies \nThese advanced technologies such as those found in Cantaloupe\u2019s Smart Stores, which include weighted-shelf technology and built-in tracking cameras, help keep an eye on which items are being sold with 99% accuracy. IoT-enabled systems, which enable data to cross a broad range of devices and anticipate which inventory needs to be replaced \u2014 and when \u2014 weave real-time visibility into inventory levels.\nThere\u2019s the ability, too, to adjust pricing in order to help boost consumer interest in buying an item (and thus render inventory management more efficient). As a result, there\u2019s the dual satisfaction, on the part of the merchant, of avoiding stockouts and increasing sales.\nThe data show that self-service retailers can recalibrate stock allocations and product assortments with precision and in a fluid manner as consumers\u2019 tastes change \u2014 and the proof is in the top line. Surveys of the Smart Store metrics show that early adopters of these solutions have already reported an average 30% increase in sales relative to pre-implementation levels.\nThere\u2019s also the reduced operational cost tied to staff \u2014 better inventory management means that less time and money, in terms of back-room and shelf-stocking efforts, must be expended just to keep products available.\nThe convergence of smarter technologies in the service of retail has improved commerce even in settings that might not be conventionally thought of as retail. Consider the example where, as PYMNTS Intelligence and Cantaloupe found, a college campus, after replacing vending machines with Smart Stores drove a more than 250% weekly increase in sales. Revenues surged, from $450\u2013$600 to $1,600 per week. Restocking efficiency was just as compelling, with a restocking time of only 1.5 minutes per Smart Store unit.\nThe post Stop the Steal: Smart Stores Help Brands Meet Consumers in New Settings appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-08T04:00:34-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-07T21:59:38-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/smart-stores-inventory.png", "tags": [ "cantaloupe", "Consumer Spending", "Featured News", "inventory", "inventory management", "News", "PYMNTS Intelligence", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "Self-Checkout", "smart stores", "Technology", "Theft" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2558597", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/3-ways-retailers-are-leaning-more-on-acquirers-for-data-and-strategy/", "title": "3 Ways Retailers are Leaning More on Acquirers for Data and Strategy", "content_html": "For retailers and merchants, payments are no longer just a \u201ccheck the box\u201d exercise.
\nAs the world evolves and shopper expectations continue to mature, businesses are increasingly relying on payment processors and merchant acquirers, not only for the bread-and-butter services of transaction processing but also for valuable data insights and strategic guidance.\u00a0
\nLook no further than the fact that Stripe\u2019s application for a Merchant Acquirer Limited Purpose Bank (MALPB) charter has been accepted by the state of Georgia\u2019s Department of Banking and Finance for proof that the acquirer and retail landscape is entering a new era.
\nThe evolving relationship between retailers and acquirers reflects broader changes in how data is leveraged for strategic decision-making. The accelerated digital transformation of the retail sector, coupled with shifting consumer behaviors and competitive pressures, has underscored the importance of granular, real-time insights.
\nAcquirers, armed with a treasure trove of transactional data, are uniquely placed to help retailers optimize their operations, enhance customer experiences and drive revenue growth. From personalizing customer experiences to fortifying security measures and optimizing payment strategies, the influence of acquirers on retail strategy is growing rapidly.
\nRead also: Retail Customers Demand Simpler Checkout Experiences
\nGiven the realities of today\u2019s commerce landscape, more and more retailers are looking to their acquirers for insights into optimizing their payment strategies. This can include everything from streamlining checkout processes to implementing alternative payment methods that appeal to new customer demographics.
\n\u201cMerchants are acutely aware that frictionless experiences drive sales,\u201d Guida Sousa, senior vice president, product management at Mastercard, told PYMNTS, noting that consumers demand immediacy, security and seamless experiences.
\nPayment optimization is no longer just about lowering fees. Retailers are looking to acquirers for guidance on improving authorization rates, reducing chargebacks and even strategically routing transactions to achieve cost savings.
\nData from the PYMNTS Intelligence study \u201cThe Online Features Driving Consumers to Shop With Brands, Retailers or Marketplaces,\u201d done in collaboration with\u00a0Adobe, indicated that 50% of consumers consider the ease of a merchant\u2019s checkout process when choosing where to shop.
\n\u201cEverybody wants to streamline the checkout process. That\u2019s what is driving payments,\u201d Justin Downey, vice president of product\u00a0at\u00a0Maverick, told PYMNTS. \u201cIf you create too many hurdles in the checkout process, you might lose the payment.\u201d
\nBy analyzing transaction data across various channels, acquirers can help to identify inefficiencies as well as suggest improvements that may be able to enhance both customer satisfaction and profitability. For example, cross-border retailers are increasingly working with acquirers to localize payment options, providing a smoother experience for international shoppers.
\nAs detailed in PYMNTS Intelligence\u2019s work with\u00a0Carat from Fiserv, \u201cPlatform Business Survey: The Rise of Embedded Payments,\u201d we found that adding payment features to services has enabled independent software vendors and marketplaces to generate revenue by bring payments more prominently to the forefront of the commerce experience. Data suggests that 65% of ISVs and marketplaces that do not currently offer payment capabilities plan to add embedded financial products for payment acceptance.
\nSee more: Embedded Finance Boom Continues to Reshape Financial Ecosystems
\nCollaboration between retailers and acquirers is key to creating a layered approach to security, and with the surge in online shopping, fraud prevention and risk management have become central to retail operations. Acquirers are increasingly serving as crucial allies in identifying suspicious activity and mitigating potential losses.
\nUsing sophisticated algorithms and machine learning models, acquirers can flag anomalies in transaction data that may indicate fraud. Retailers are leveraging these insights to enhance their own fraud detection systems and streamline their response mechanisms.
\nOn Thursday (April 3), Visa unveiled three new value-added services designed to make accepting payments easier and more secure for acquirers, payment facilitators, retailers, marketplaces and shops, underscoring how the marketplace is responding to the needs of its stakeholders with innovative solutions.
\nUltimately, the rise of omnichannel shopping has created the need for a seamless experience across physical and digital touchpoints. By partnering with acquirers who can unify payment data from various sources, retailers can create a cohesive view of the customer journey. The data acquirers process offers invaluable insight into spending patterns across different segments, which retailers can use to craft highly targeted marketing strategies.
\nBy synthesizing this information, retailers can refine their marketing efforts, tailor loyalty programs and improve product recommendations.
\nThe post 3 Ways Retailers are Leaning More on Acquirers for Data and Strategy appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "For retailers and merchants, payments are no longer just a \u201ccheck the box\u201d exercise.\nAs the world evolves and shopper expectations continue to mature, businesses are increasingly relying on payment processors and merchant acquirers, not only for the bread-and-butter services of transaction processing but also for valuable data insights and strategic guidance.\u00a0\nLook no further than the fact that Stripe\u2019s application for a Merchant Acquirer Limited Purpose Bank (MALPB) charter has been accepted by the state of Georgia\u2019s Department of Banking and Finance for proof that the acquirer and retail landscape is entering a new era.\nThe evolving relationship between retailers and acquirers reflects broader changes in how data is leveraged for strategic decision-making. The accelerated digital transformation of the retail sector, coupled with shifting consumer behaviors and competitive pressures, has underscored the importance of granular, real-time insights.\nAcquirers, armed with a treasure trove of transactional data, are uniquely placed to help retailers optimize their operations, enhance customer experiences and drive revenue growth. From personalizing customer experiences to fortifying security measures and optimizing payment strategies, the influence of acquirers on retail strategy is growing rapidly.\nRead also: Retail Customers Demand Simpler Checkout Experiences\nRetailers Seek Digital Commerce Solutions to Add Efficiency and Deter Shrink\nGiven the realities of today\u2019s commerce landscape, more and more retailers are looking to their acquirers for insights into optimizing their payment strategies. This can include everything from streamlining checkout processes to implementing alternative payment methods that appeal to new customer demographics.\n\u201cMerchants are acutely aware that frictionless experiences drive sales,\u201d Guida Sousa, senior vice president, product management at Mastercard, told PYMNTS, noting that consumers demand immediacy, security and seamless experiences.\nPayment optimization is no longer just about lowering fees. Retailers are looking to acquirers for guidance on improving authorization rates, reducing chargebacks and even strategically routing transactions to achieve cost savings.\nData from the PYMNTS Intelligence study \u201cThe Online Features Driving Consumers to Shop With Brands, Retailers or Marketplaces,\u201d done in collaboration with\u00a0Adobe, indicated that 50% of consumers consider the ease of a merchant\u2019s checkout process when choosing where to shop.\n\u201cEverybody wants to streamline the checkout process. That\u2019s what is driving payments,\u201d Justin Downey, vice president of product\u00a0at\u00a0Maverick, told PYMNTS. \u201cIf you create too many hurdles in the checkout process, you might lose the payment.\u201d\nBy analyzing transaction data across various channels, acquirers can help to identify inefficiencies as well as suggest improvements that may be able to enhance both customer satisfaction and profitability. For example, cross-border retailers are increasingly working with acquirers to localize payment options, providing a smoother experience for international shoppers.\nAs detailed in PYMNTS Intelligence\u2019s work with\u00a0Carat from Fiserv, \u201cPlatform Business Survey: The Rise of Embedded Payments,\u201d we found that adding payment features to services has enabled independent software vendors and marketplaces to generate revenue by bring payments more prominently to the forefront of the commerce experience. Data suggests that 65% of ISVs and marketplaces that do not currently offer payment capabilities plan to add embedded financial products for payment acceptance.\nSee more: Embedded Finance Boom Continues to Reshape Financial Ecosystems\nUnlocking Greater Personalization and Fraud Detection\u00a0\nCollaboration between retailers and acquirers is key to creating a layered approach to security, and with the surge in online shopping, fraud prevention and risk management have become central to retail operations. Acquirers are increasingly serving as crucial allies in identifying suspicious activity and mitigating potential losses.\nUsing sophisticated algorithms and machine learning models, acquirers can flag anomalies in transaction data that may indicate fraud. Retailers are leveraging these insights to enhance their own fraud detection systems and streamline their response mechanisms.\nOn Thursday (April 3), Visa unveiled three new value-added services designed to make accepting payments easier and more secure for acquirers, payment facilitators, retailers, marketplaces and shops, underscoring how the marketplace is responding to the needs of its stakeholders with innovative solutions.\nUltimately, the rise of omnichannel shopping has created the need for a seamless experience across physical and digital touchpoints. By partnering with acquirers who can unify payment data from various sources, retailers can create a cohesive view of the customer journey. The data acquirers process offers invaluable insight into spending patterns across different segments, which retailers can use to craft highly targeted marketing strategies.\nBy synthesizing this information, retailers can refine their marketing efforts, tailor loyalty programs and improve product recommendations.\nThe post 3 Ways Retailers are Leaning More on Acquirers for Data and Strategy appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-07T11:42:28-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-08T22:28:15-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/retailers-merchant-acquirers-data-analysis.jpg", "tags": [ "B2B", "B2B Payments", "commercial payments", "consumer data", "data", "data analysis", "merchant acquirers", "News", "omnichannel commerce", "partnerships", "payment providers", "payments", "payments data", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "retailers", "What's Hot In B2B" ] }, { "id": "https://www.pymnts.com/?p=2541316", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/news/retail/2025/walmart-takes-pricing-fight-to-suppliers-as-amazon-mulls-tiktok-bid/", "title": "Walmart Takes Pricing Fight to Suppliers as Amazon Mulls TikTok Bid", "content_html": "As global economic conditions grow increasingly complex, major retail players like Walmart and Amazon are making strategic moves to secure their footholds and expand their influence.
\nFrom navigating supplier negotiations to forging partnerships and exploring new technological frontiers, the marketplace\u2019s largest retail and eCommerce companies appear to be constantly reshaping their strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
\nIn anticipation of potential tariffs that could disrupt supply chains and inflate costs, Walmart has reportedly been lobbying its suppliers to reduce prices. Despite discussions with the Chinese government and warnings of potential retaliation, the retail giant has allegedly approached suppliers in China with requests to cut prices by as much as 10% per tariff round. This proactive measure aims to preserve Walmart\u2019s reputation for low prices even amid rising economic pressures.\u00a0
\nThese negotiations come at a time when tensions between the United States and China continue to cast uncertainty over international trade. Walmart\u2019s strategic response underscores its dedication to maintaining cost competitiveness, even if it requires pushing suppliers to absorb part of the economic burden. It is a high-stakes gamble aimed at securing price stability for its vast customer base.
\nWalmart\u2019s ambitions extend beyond price negotiations. The company is actively exploring new avenues to enhance customer experience and broaden its financial ecosystem. In a significant move, Walmart has reportedly partnered with Klarna, a leading buy now, pay later (BNPL) service provider, offering $15 million in warrants as part of the deal.
\nThis partnership highlights Walmart\u2019s recognition of the growing popularity of flexible payment options. Klarna\u2019s BNPL model appeals to consumers who prefer deferred payment structures, particularly amid inflationary pressures that strain household budgets. By integrating Klarna\u2019s services into its ecosystem, Walmart aims to appeal to a broader demographic and enhance the shopping experience for value-conscious customers.
\nRead more: Shopping Tools in Focus for Amazon and Walmart
\nNot to be outdone, Amazon continues to demonstrate its technological prowess with new innovations designed to enhance its market dominance. Recently, the eCommerce giant unveiled an AI-driven agent capable of autonomously shopping and placing orders. This tool promises to streamline the customer journey by anticipating user needs and optimizing the purchasing process through predictive analytics.
\nAdditionally, Amazon has reached a resolution with Nokia over a global patent dispute concerning streaming technologies. This settlement not only resolves a long-standing legal issue but also allows Amazon to proceed with its ambitions to enhance streaming services, potentially through its various digital platforms.
\nAmazon\u2019s broader technological ambitions are also evident in Project Kuiper, its ambitious initiative aimed at providing low-latency broadband internet through a constellation of satellites. Recently, the company announced the successful launch of its first two prototype satellites.
\nProject Kuiper is a clear response to the growing demand for high-speed internet access in underserved regions. While competitors like SpaceX\u2019s Starlink have already established a substantial presence in the satellite internet market, Amazon\u2019s entry could significantly alter the competitive landscape.
\nPerhaps most intriguing is Amazon\u2019s reported bid to acquire TikTok, as the popular social media platform faces potential bans in the United States due to national security concerns. By acquiring TikTok, Amazon would gain a powerful tool for influencing consumer behavior, particularly among younger demographics.
\nMoreover, such an acquisition could allow Amazon to integrate TikTok\u2019s influential advertising ecosystem into its own retail infrastructure, providing a seamless link between content discovery and direct purchasing. While the deal remains speculative, it highlights Amazon\u2019s willingness to pursue unconventional strategies to remain at the forefront of consumer engagement.
\nSee also: How CFOs Can Manage for Today\u2019s Supply Chain Choke Points
\nThe strategic moves by Walmart and Amazon reflect a broader industry trend: the necessity of adapting to changing market conditions through innovation, collaboration and technological advancement. As these retail giants push boundaries and expand their spheres of influence, the retail landscape will likely continue to evolve in unexpected ways.
\nFor Walmart, maintaining cost competitiveness through aggressive supplier negotiations and embracing new financial technologies reflects its enduring commitment to providing value. For Amazon, technological innovation and diversification through projects like Kuiper and potential social media acquisitions signal an ambition to extend its influence beyond retail into broader areas of connectivity and consumer engagement.
\nUltimately, the moves made by these companies underscore a common imperative: the need to anticipate change and act decisively to seize emerging opportunities. As tariffs loom, technological breakthroughs accelerate and new partnership models emerge, Walmart and Amazon\u2019s strategic choices will likely serve as blueprints for other industry players navigating an increasingly complex global marketplace.
\nThe post Walmart Takes Pricing Fight to Suppliers as Amazon Mulls TikTok Bid appeared first on PYMNTS.com.
\n", "content_text": "As global economic conditions grow increasingly complex, major retail players like Walmart and Amazon are making strategic moves to secure their footholds and expand their influence. \nFrom navigating supplier negotiations to forging partnerships and exploring new technological frontiers, the marketplace\u2019s largest retail and eCommerce companies appear to be constantly reshaping their strategies to maintain a competitive edge.\nWalmart\u2019s Supplier Negotiations Amid Looming Tariffs\nIn anticipation of potential tariffs that could disrupt supply chains and inflate costs, Walmart has reportedly been lobbying its suppliers to reduce prices. Despite discussions with the Chinese government and warnings of potential retaliation, the retail giant has allegedly approached suppliers in China with requests to cut prices by as much as 10% per tariff round. This proactive measure aims to preserve Walmart\u2019s reputation for low prices even amid rising economic pressures.\u00a0\nThese negotiations come at a time when tensions between the United States and China continue to cast uncertainty over international trade. Walmart\u2019s strategic response underscores its dedication to maintaining cost competitiveness, even if it requires pushing suppliers to absorb part of the economic burden. It is a high-stakes gamble aimed at securing price stability for its vast customer base.\nForging New Partnerships and Capitalizing on Buy Now, Pay Later Trends\nWalmart\u2019s ambitions extend beyond price negotiations. The company is actively exploring new avenues to enhance customer experience and broaden its financial ecosystem. In a significant move, Walmart has reportedly partnered with Klarna, a leading buy now, pay later (BNPL) service provider, offering $15 million in warrants as part of the deal.\nThis partnership highlights Walmart\u2019s recognition of the growing popularity of flexible payment options. Klarna\u2019s BNPL model appeals to consumers who prefer deferred payment structures, particularly amid inflationary pressures that strain household budgets. By integrating Klarna\u2019s services into its ecosystem, Walmart aims to appeal to a broader demographic and enhance the shopping experience for value-conscious customers.\nRead more: Shopping Tools in Focus for Amazon and Walmart\nAmazon\u2019s Technological Pursuits and Expansive Vision\nNot to be outdone, Amazon continues to demonstrate its technological prowess with new innovations designed to enhance its market dominance. Recently, the eCommerce giant unveiled an AI-driven agent capable of autonomously shopping and placing orders. This tool promises to streamline the customer journey by anticipating user needs and optimizing the purchasing process through predictive analytics.\nAdditionally, Amazon has reached a resolution with Nokia over a global patent dispute concerning streaming technologies. This settlement not only resolves a long-standing legal issue but also allows Amazon to proceed with its ambitions to enhance streaming services, potentially through its various digital platforms.\nProject Kuiper: Amazon\u2019s Ambitious Satellite Internet Initiative\nAmazon\u2019s broader technological ambitions are also evident in Project Kuiper, its ambitious initiative aimed at providing low-latency broadband internet through a constellation of satellites. Recently, the company announced the successful launch of its first two prototype satellites.\nProject Kuiper is a clear response to the growing demand for high-speed internet access in underserved regions. While competitors like SpaceX\u2019s Starlink have already established a substantial presence in the satellite internet market, Amazon\u2019s entry could significantly alter the competitive landscape.\nA Bid for TikTok: Amazon\u2019s Play for Social Media Relevance\nPerhaps most intriguing is Amazon\u2019s reported bid to acquire TikTok, as the popular social media platform faces potential bans in the United States due to national security concerns. By acquiring TikTok, Amazon would gain a powerful tool for influencing consumer behavior, particularly among younger demographics.\nMoreover, such an acquisition could allow Amazon to integrate TikTok\u2019s influential advertising ecosystem into its own retail infrastructure, providing a seamless link between content discovery and direct purchasing. While the deal remains speculative, it highlights Amazon\u2019s willingness to pursue unconventional strategies to remain at the forefront of consumer engagement.\nSee also: How CFOs Can Manage for Today\u2019s Supply Chain Choke Points\nNavigating Uncertainty Through Innovation and Adaptation\nThe strategic moves by Walmart and Amazon reflect a broader industry trend: the necessity of adapting to changing market conditions through innovation, collaboration and technological advancement. As these retail giants push boundaries and expand their spheres of influence, the retail landscape will likely continue to evolve in unexpected ways.\nFor Walmart, maintaining cost competitiveness through aggressive supplier negotiations and embracing new financial technologies reflects its enduring commitment to providing value. For Amazon, technological innovation and diversification through projects like Kuiper and potential social media acquisitions signal an ambition to extend its influence beyond retail into broader areas of connectivity and consumer engagement.\nUltimately, the moves made by these companies underscore a common imperative: the need to anticipate change and act decisively to seize emerging opportunities. As tariffs loom, technological breakthroughs accelerate and new partnership models emerge, Walmart and Amazon\u2019s strategic choices will likely serve as blueprints for other industry players navigating an increasingly complex global marketplace.\nThe post Walmart Takes Pricing Fight to Suppliers as Amazon Mulls TikTok Bid appeared first on PYMNTS.com.", "date_published": "2025-04-04T04:00:49-04:00", "date_modified": "2025-04-03T22:14:03-04:00", "authors": [ { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "PYMNTS", "url": "https://www.pymnts.com/author/pymnts/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05cc0fdcc9e387e4f3570c17158c503?s=512&d=blank&r=g" }, "image": "https://www.pymnts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Amazon.jpg", "tags": [ "acquisitions", "Amazon", "Amazon vs Walmart", "B2B", "B2B Payments", "commercial payments", "digital transformation", "ecommerce", "Featured News", "Klarna", "News", "partnerships", "Project Kuiper", "PYMNTS News", "Retail", "Supply Chain", "tariffs", "TikTok", "walmart", "What's Hot In B2B" ] } ] }