Earlier this year, we released the 20th edition of Retail Innovations, our annual exploration of the most cutting-edge concepts driving retail forward. For our second #ThemeThursday, we’re diving into “Enriched Business Models”, with a focus on TikTok Shop. As companies seek to diversify their offerings…
We’re excited to share that three of our McMillanDoolittle consultants have been named to the prestigious RETHINK Retail Top Retail Experts (TRE) list for 2025! This distinction celebrates their thought leadership, expertise, and commitment to driving innovation in the Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods industry….
Back-to-school shopping is one of the biggest spending events of the year. According to the National Retail Federation, total college spending is expected to reach $87 billion this year—a slight dip from last year’s $94 billion but still significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels. As college…
Investment in the development of employees pays off. One study conducted by ICF International Inc. reported that the median company return on such programs was 7X the initial investment. Opportunities for ongoing learning and development can be powerful motivators for employees and can help solidify…
CHICAGO, IL- Aug. 5th, 2019 In this report McMillanDoolittle details shifting consumer expectations across all retail categories – and the blind spots the leaders of both legacy retailers and digital natives must overcome as they adapt to an integrated retail landscape. In Different Leaders /…
From pop-up shops to Digital Natives opening retail stores, some new concepts have recently hit the Chicago market. Stores are still relevant, and creating engaging experiences that drive customers to visit remains a top priority. We are sharing a few stores to visit if you…
Recently, the Specialty Food Association (SFA) released its annual State of the Specialty Food Industry Report, which highlighted that small or specialty food brands are driving the most growth and innovation. According to the report, total sales in specialty foods grew by 10.3% versus 3.1%…
In good company, Nike and creative genius Virgil Abloh recently opened the Re-Creation pop-up in Chicago as a destination for sustainability, workshops, give back programs, product exclusives and local influencers. The store goes well beyond traditional retail and shows the true meaning of redefining the…
Walmart stores have 300 million unique visitors a month – more than the big online players. They’ve decided to leverage those visits and the data they provide on spend and in-store/online behavior to create a compelling and profitable ad channel for their own business, as…
Yes. And no. According to a 2019 Coresight Research study, some 36.8% of U.S. consumers bought groceries online in the past year, up significantly from just 23.1% a year prior. Not surprisingly, it’s older millennials (30-44) who are leading the charge, with 45% having purchased groceries…
