This is a video episode which you can watch here.

Takeaways

• Feinman transitioned from Bloomingdale's to Goodwill for a mission-driven role.
• Goodwill's technology was outdated, requiring significant upgrades.
• AI has transformed Goodwill's e-commerce operations, increasing efficiency.
• The demographic of Goodwill shoppers has shifted towards younger consumers.
• Goodwill uses data analytics to optimize store locations for donations and sales.
• E-commerce sales at Goodwill have increased by 25% year-over-year.
• The return rate for Goodwill's e-commerce is impressively low at 0.26%.
• Michael emphasizes the importance of testing new technologies before full implementation.
• Goodwill is exploring international shipping to expand its market.
• Leadership and innovation are crucial for adapting to retail challenges.

Chapters

00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data

01:37 Feinman's Journey in Retail

04:05 Technology Roadmap at Goodwill

08:36 E-Commerce Strategy and Operations

12:19 The Future of E-Commerce and AI Innovations

18:25 Challenges and Opportunities in Retail Technology

25:00 Consumer Behavior and Returns Management

30:48 Innovation and Leadership in Retail

37:15 Conclusion and Future Outlook

This is a video podcast episode, which you can watch here.

Read Coresight Research reports on sustainability and AI in retail.

Visit the Retail Technology Hub to explore reports, data and competitive landscapes on technology.

Takeaways

• BTS is the second largest retail season after winter holidays.
• Total BTS spending is set to total around $38 billion this year.
• Families are focusing more on essential items and discounts for BTS shopping.
• Retailers are adjusting strategies to capture budget-conscious shoppers.
• Economic indicators show mixed signals but overall consumer spending remains resilient.
• New tariffs are significantly impacting retail pricing and supply chains.
• Retailers are diversifying sourcing to mitigate tariff impacts.
• Category-specific strategies are crucial for navigating the BTS season.
• Communication of value and pricing transparency is key for retailers this season.
• Retailers should remain agile and data-driven to adapt to changing consumer behavior.

Chapters

00:00 This Week in Research: New Reports and Data

02:03 The Importance of BTS for Retailers

03:35 Consumer Spending Trends and Categories

07:12 Economic Indicators and Consumer Behavior

11:51 Impact of New Tariff Regime on Retail

20:53 Retail Strategies Amid Tariff Challenges

24:08 Category-Specific Retail Strategies

34:11 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook

Check out the Coresight Research US Back to School series of reports to dive into US consumers' shopping expectations for the BTS season in more detail.

This is a video podcast episode, which you can watch here.

Takeaways

• Data is integral to matching suppliers with retailers.
• Fit challenges in merchandising are both physical and technological.
• Retailers are increasingly adopting direct-to-consumer strategies.
• Physical retail spaces are evolving into showrooms and experience centers.
• Retail media is shifting toward more personalized and generative approaches.
• Marketplace strategies allow retailers to experiment with inventory models.
• Tech-first approaches are essential for modern retail operations.
• Market uncertainties are driving retailers to explore new categories and suppliers.
• Collaboration between brands and retailers is becoming more critical for success.

Chapters

00:00 This Week at Coresight Research: New Reports and Data

03:01 The Role of Merchandising in Retail

06:05 Understanding Fit: Technology and Product

09:10 Challenges in Product Assortment and Profitability

12:03 The Blurring Lines Between Retailers and Brands

15:09 The Future of Physical Retail Spaces

17:52 The Evolution of Retail Media

20:54 Marketplace Strategies and Inventory Management

23:58 Tech-First Approaches in Retail

27:08 Navigating Market Uncertainties

29:57 Final Thoughts and Predictions for 2025

Dive further into retail challenges and tech-driven solutions with the recent, in-depth report from Coresight Research and Rithum: Unlocking Success: The Pathway to Profitability for US Brands and Retailers