Sprouts' growth plan includes new markets, prototypes | Fred's to close 104 more stores in restructuring | H&M creates new rewards program with bigger perks
May 17, 2019
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Sprouts Farmers Market is entering new markets this year, with plans to open more than half of its future stores in new territory, according to company executives. The grocer has also introduced prototype stores centered around customer experience improvements in the meat, deli, seafood and bakery departments.
Discount retailer Fred's will shutter 104 stores by the end of next month, in addition to the 159 closures announced last month. The closures, part of an ongoing restructuring, will leave the retailer with about 300 locations.
Fashion retailer H&M has debuted a new, two-tier loyalty program with expanded rewards for its biggest-spending customers. Perks will include discounted blowouts at Drybar, invitation-only events and free-shipping offers.
Brands in The Estee Lauder Companies' portfolio are adapting to changing ideas of masculinity and seeking to reach more men who are interested in beauty. The shift is being led by Asian trends and Gen Z's view of gender as being non-binary, Vice President Doug Jensen said.
Coffee shop Dunkin' is introducing limited-edition nail polishes in 10 US cities with colors inspired by its beverages. The polishes were developed in partnership with Lauren B. Beauty.
Vegan beauty brand Glamsquad has launched a new line that includes a face mist, lip balms and a face primer. The brand launched a hair-care collection last year that now generates about 60% of total sales, Chief Marketing Officer Poupak Sionit said.
Walmart's investments to boost innovation and productivity fueled a surge in first-quarter US sales and helped boost e-commerce sales 37%, CEO Doug McMillon said. The retailer now offers its click-and-collect program at 2,450 stores and it has made same-day delivery an option from almost 1,000 locations.
Automation is poised to take on more of the repetitive tasks that have been part of retail jobs, a shift that's expected to free up staff for more fulfilling work and create new higher-tech positions. Executives from retailers including Walmart, IKEA and Kroger are focusing on training and preparing employees for the jobs of the future.
