Retail news that keeps industry pros in the know
Retail Brew delivers the latest retail industry news and insights surrounding marketing, DTC, and e-commerce to keep leaders and decision-makers up to date.
While AI seems to be generating the most hype these days, innovation isn’t just for fancy new technology. In the world of fast food, Wendy’s is innovating the venerable chicken nugget. Starting this week, the chain’s new Saucy Nuggs will be available nationwide. The offering takes the chain’s popular chicken nuggets and tosses them in a flavorful sauce. So look out, Nvidia. Wendy’s is on the cutting edge.
Here’s what else is going on in retail this week:
In technology roll-outs: On Saturday, Lowe’s launched a pilot offering customers an in-store shopping experience powered by Apple Vision Pro. The home improvement store said the tech will help customers visualize and design their kitchens. This experience was initially available through Lowe’s Style Studio, which launched in February, but the pilot brought it into select stores. Lowe’s was one of the early adopters of using AR, or augmented reality, to reshape digital shopping.
In corporate gatherings: Best Buy is hosting its annual shareholder meeting on Wednesday, just a week after the company’s executives announced an exclusive lineup of 40 new laptops with built-in AI functionality during an earnings call. The news sparked a surge in the company’s stock. The company also announced last week that it’s partnering with Lucky, a data solutions provider, to sell DTC electronics brands using store inventory.
In conferences: Asset management firm Oppenheimer is virtually hosting its 25th annual Consumer Growth and E-Commerce Conference from June 10–12. The company pitched the gathering as an opportunity for retailers to check in on consumer trends ahead of the important back-to-school and holiday shopping season. Major players such as Walmart and Best Buy will be presenting.
In charitable donations: H&M relaunched its “My Chosen Family” campaign focused on celebrating non-biological families in the LGBTQIA+ community, and on Tuesday it’s sponsoring the ACLU’s Pride Reception NYC. Between Wednesday and Friday, it’ll also match donations up to $150,000.