Today on Total Retail

Target announced that it’s rolling back diversity, equity and inclusion programs — including some that aim to make its workforce and merchandise better reflect its customers. In a memo sent to its employees, the Minneapolis-based retailer said it will end its three-year DEI goals, stop reports to external diversity-focused groups like the Human Rights Campaign’s…

New York Yankees’ superstar Alex Rodriguez was one of over 450 speakers to take the stage at NRF 2025 last week in New York City. From legacy brands such as Tommy Hilfiger to technology innovators like Nvidia, the Big Show was packed with content and attendees. In fact, over 40,000 people from over 100 countries,…

For retailers aiming to stay ahead, operational excellence is a non-negotiable. From temperature challenges to equipment malfunctions, potential disasters can arise at any moment. The ability to swiftly detect and address them is critical. Easily the difference between preserving inventory and losing sales, it's crucial that retail managers integrate effective process management practices that minimize…

With many recent natural disasters — hurricanes, forest fires and flooding — serving as a constant reminder of the threat of climate change, the environment is playing an increasing role in decision-making for retailers and consumers alike. But how motivated are consumers to reduce their carbon footprint through sustainable products and eco-friendly home delivery options?…

By the end of 2024, over 30 sales tax holidays took place across 20 states, offering shoppers temporary tax breaks on items such as school supplies, clothing and appliances. These events are designed to drive consumer spending and boost retailers’ bottom lines, but for many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), they're more of a burden…

The retail industry faces mounting pressure to maintain precise control over inventory as it moves through increasingly complex supply chains. Today's retailers need real-time visibility into both location and condition of goods — from distribution centers to store shelves. Traditional approaches to inventory management often create blind spots between key handoff points, leading to operational…

In a move meant to create an integrated, automated supply chain, Walmart has struck a deal with artificial intelligence-enabled robotics technology company Symbotic. Walmart said in a press release it would invest $520 million in Symbotic's AI-powered robotics platform, which will accelerate online pickup and delivery options and develop new pickup and delivery fulfillment systems.…

As we begin 2025, e-commerce continues to be a significant cornerstone in retail with trends driven by evolving consumer habits and rapid technological advancements. Customers continue to discover more online, and opportunities to purchase quickly follow. Recent retail reports show continued growth in e-commerce sales. This is a trend I believe will persist through the…

As retailers approach 2025, the political season has brought into focus significant opportunities to learn from consumers based on their tendencies exhibited throughout the election cycle and its outcomes. The brands that perform best in 2025 and the following years will make powerful use of four major strategies. Define Your Brand’s Version of Americanism There…

At a growth rate of 21.8 percent for 2024, retail media is the fastest-growing form of ad spend in the U.S., according to data from eMarketer. As impressive as that growth rate is, retail media faces challenges hampering its growth. Dominance in Retail Media For one, data from eMarketer shows that Amazon.com will account for…