Alongside today’s digital acceleration, consumer expectation for diverse and rapid delivery solutions and real-time availability have placed greater strain on companies’ operational capabilities. For retailers that lack the necessary operational network to meet these expectations, a frustrating online or delivery experience has become a point of friction for shoppers, leading to cart abandonment and lost dollars. In order to connect consumers to orders in a timely manner, small-, mid-, and even large-scale retailers are partnering with organizations, from big box retailers to eCommerce giants and transportation companies, to leverage their networks and share resources.

To better meet consumer needs, brands and retailers are taking aggregated information about consumers and their buying behaviors to inform product design. By harvesting customer feedback through technology to inform the product development process, retailers are better positioned to accommodate consumers’ lifestyles and preferences, while learning how best to achieve a well-designed product that resonates with customers on a deeper level.

Beyond offering products, there is a need across communities for retailers and brands to provide services at a local level that address personal consumer growth as well as systemic change. As they look to strengthen community ties and support their customers, retailers and brands are building greater trust and buy-in by not only committing to inclusive and equitable pledges but integrating these initiatives into their business model on a permanent basis. By tying social impact initiatives to their revenue outlook, retailers can not only meet real needs, but also ensure initiatives are sustainable and continue to grow.

American Eagle believes brands who compete for shoppers in similar product categories shouldn’t also be competing over quicker delivery times and fulfillment logistics. 

Over the last two years, families around the country have welcomed millions of new pets into their homes.

Pretzel is an online shopping assistant designed explicitly for best-in-class post-purchase experiences, working on behalf of shoppers to fill needs and keep track of everything from item sizes to return windows, all in one platform.