Retailers should matter to legislators
Two issues in particular — credit card “swipe fees” and organized retail crime (ORC) — illustrate how slow congressional action and regulatory inertia are costing businesses and consumers alike.
Opinion
Health care’s cost is unsustainable
Businesses’ cost concerns and the profitability struggles of providers point to the urgent need for reform.
One 2025 story overshadows the rest
David Pinto looks at the state of retailing as we head into 2026.
The brick-and-mortar renaissance
Dave Wendland is vice president of strategic relations and a member of the HRG owner group.
A retail tech arms race is imminent
If Walmart, which continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence and other advanced technology, saw the need to join forces with OpenAI, it’s likely other major retailers that intend to maintain their standing in the marketplace will follow suit.
The transformation of MMR and CDR reflects five seminal industry changes
David Pinto looks at the five major changes in the mass retail market and what we did to reflect those changes
Consumers are resilient, and divided
Across income levels, shoppers are making deliberate trade-offs — trading restaurants for home cooking, premium brands for store brands, and full-price retailers for discount grocers.
A guide to viability for independent grocers
Thom Blischok argues that independent grocers can successfully compete with the big chains by leaning into their strengths.
A New Top Item on Shopping Lists: Health
Wellness is also redefining product innovation. Functional foods and beverages are booming, from probiotic yogurts to protein-infused waters and “mental wellness” drinks designed to improve mood or focus.
Instant Checkout: Immediate Disruption
OpenAI — whose ChatGPT first brought the revolution in artificial intelligence to widespread public attention — upped the ante for retailers and CPG companies late last month with the launch of Instant Checkout, a tool that enables users to purchase products without leaving the platform.
Retailing Change is Rampant — Except Where You’d Most Expect it
David Pinto looks at the worldwide reach of mass retailing
What Retailers Can do to Put the Joy Back in Gifting
Lori Zumwinkle examines the new opportunities for retailers this upcoming holiday season
