June 5, 2019
April 3, 2019
The last month of Q1 2019 brought news focused on retail innovations as it relates to technology and customer service. KWI client NARS Cosmetics announced it will be rolling out virtual try-ons via a partnership with Perfect Corp. where clients can use the virtual reality technology via iPads. In addition, two DTC retail brands have been named unicorns with Glossier raising $100m and Rent the Runway announced a $125m investment, making both brands worth more than $1 billion. And KWI client Quay Australia made headlines for launching a sunglass line with Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez.
March 11, 2019
When you think of a salesperson with a mobile device, you probably think of Apple. They were one of the first major brands to invest in the mobile point of sale experience using the iPod touch in 2009. Apple’s success has paved the way for a tremendous growth in mobile POS systems. An RIS News study found that half of department stores had already implemented a mobile POS plan or planned to do so within 12 months. For the past five years, we have been working with our clients to implement in-store mobile POS systems. We’ve seen the positive impact for these clients and the incredible benefits to anyone’s retail business.
March 8, 2019
It’s been another busy month in the world of retail as many blue-chip brands reported earnings and many retailers made their way to ShopTalk in Vegas. We saw headlines about stores shutting physical locations including JCPenney, Victoria’s Secret, Payless, and Gymboree to name a few. But not all was doom and gloom. Gap announced it would spin off Old Navy into a separate company and that it would acquire children’s retailer Janie and Jack. And Allbirds announced it was expanding to China, opening its first physical stores in the country.
With the school year wrapping up and focus turning to summer, many retailers are preparing for a summer lull. But things are still busy on the technology and innovation side of things, brands continue to look to new ways to engage customers and keep them coming back time and again. KWI customer, Stance, is one example, and announced that its unique socks will be available in some airport kiosk locations. We’d also like to congratulate our long-term client, Bluemercury, on their 20th anniversary as they continue to bring luxury skincare and cosmetics to local communities. This Forbes article gives a sneak inside the brand’s history and what makes it work.