Future Retail Newsletter #117

Retailers including JCPenney, GNC, and Signet Jewelers are closing thousands of locations in June as shoppers shift their behaviors and the coronavirus pandemic continues to cripple their bottom line.

Curbside pickup has exploded in popularity over the past few months and retailers and mall operators are rushing to catch up.

COVID-19 has accelerated digital transformation and put company values in sharper focus. The challenge business leaders face is to understand what’s really driving the change; which changes matter now; which changes will stick as the pandemic recedes from daily reality to memory; and what action you should take as a result.

Although economies are slowly beginning to open, it looks as though social distancing is here to stay for a while. How can companies maintain that trend, and what are the design possibilities that may help?

Vogue Business innovation editor Maghan McDowell talk with Snap’s Carolina Arguelles and Gucci EVP Robert L Triefus about the potential for augmented reality commerce in fashion and luxury retail.

While consumer adoption of VR has been slow, companies are taking advantage of increased interest while enterprise use continues to grow.

Microsoft said the closing of its physical locations will “result in a pre-tax charge of approximately $450 million, or $0.05 per share,” which it will record in the current quarter ending June 30.

The beauty industry’s foray into shoppable livestreaming continues in North America as a growing number of brands are adopting the feature.

Kanye West is about to unveil a new website for his fashion label Yeezy. The design turns the rules of e-commerce on its head.

How are we doing? Please take a moment to provide your feedback on our Future Retail Newsletter.

Check out previous editions of the Future Retail Newsletter for even more on tech, innovation, design, and retail.