Reading this on a mobile device? Try our optimized mobile version here: http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/dAoiCaiGapCcyeuJCidawJCicNDcfF
  | Global retail industry news |  |
- KFC: A tale of two chickens
Yum! Brands' KFC is finding explosive popularity in overseas markets, including developing countries such as Ghana, but the US chicken chain's popularity is waning at home as newer rivals grab market share. The focus on global brand building is stirring unrest among US franchisees, who blame the strategy and disjointed marketing for their lower sales. Bloomberg Businessweek (29 Mar.)       | Principles of Checkweighing - Building an Effective Program
This essential guide is an invaluable resource of checkweighing information and a definitive reference providing an insight into all aspects of checkweighing from basic principles to implementation of a comprehensive program. Request your free copy now! |
 - UK government to adopt "virtually all" of high-street plan
The UK government said this week that it will adopt nearly all of consultant Mary Portas' recommendations to revitalize high streets, including creating town teams to manage the retail areas and ensure more affordable parking and launching a £10 million innovation fund. Portas said the plans don't go far enough. "I would have liked greater central intervention in critical areas such as change of use, parking, business rates and the sign-off of new out-of-town developments." The Guardian (London) (29 Mar.), BBC (30 Mar.) - H&M to create new retail brand in 2013
Sweden-based fast-fashion retailer H&M revealed plans Thursday to launch a new retail chain next year. H&M, which debuted higher-end sister chain COS in 2007, gave few details on the new brand but did say it won't be a luxury version of COS. Women's Wear Daily (subscription required) (29 Mar.)  | VoIP phone systems deliver impressive benefits for businesses large and small. From advanced features like unified communications to significant cost savings, there's a compelling case to switch to VoIP. Read through these free guides for the very latest information on the phone system market. |
 - Apple supplier promises better working conditions
A major Apple supplier in China vowed Thursday to improve working conditions in its factories after a report by the Fair Labor Association revealed multiple violations of Chinese laws and industry codes including having employees work more than 60 hours per week, often without enough pay to meet their basic needs. "They have publicly promised to make changes in a manner that they will have to deliver on it," said association CEO Auret van Heerden. The Wall Street Journal (29 Mar.), The New York Times (tiered subscription model) (29 Mar.)  | Data powers all your online channels and as a marketer you are involved with how this information is being used to reach customers. Federal regulations require protection of that consumer data to avoid potential risks and lawsuits. Watch these videos to learn how to create a comprehensive data privacy strategy. |
 - M-commerce set to soar in Brazil
Brazil's consumers command the biggest share of e-commerce in Latin America but fewer than 1% of online sales are made on mobile devices. That's poised to change in the near future, providing opportunities for the country's entrepreneurs to launch new m-commerce ventures, this story says. Forbes (29 Mar.)  | Leveraging Cloud Security to Weather Threatening Storms
Web attacks and retribution campaigns are on the rise, and they have become more frequent, more random and more extreme. This paper assesses the current cyber threat environment and discusses the use of distributed cloud services as an effective means to protect against evolving, modern-day IT threats. |
 - Survey: UK retailers plan to boost mobile investments
Nearly half of UK consumers own a smartphone, and high street retailers are looking for ways to use the mobile trend to drive sales. Nearly one-quarter say they plan to invest in mobile payment methods during the next year, and 14% aim to add virtual shop windows, according to Virgin Media Business. Techworld (U.K.) (29 Mar.)  | Retailers use video surveillance as a valuable tool to combat shrinkage, which can account for more than 2% of retail sales for some U.S. organizations. Shrink is up 6.6% in 2011 over 2010. This 6-page whitepaper from 3VR gives real examples on how retailers are increasing sales with video surveillance & analytics. Download it free today. |
 - Spain's Zara maps global expansion course
Zara's affordable fast-fashion model has proved successful in Europe, largely because the company's strategy of manufacturing closer to home instead of outsourcing to China means stores can stock the latest looks faster than its rivals. The strategy means challenges when it comes to expanding in China, and the Inditex-owned brand may need to build a larger base of designers and manufacturers in Asia. The Economist (23 Mar.) - Prada's Asia gamble pays off in higher profits
Prada's sales in Asia rose 42% last year, and the growth pushed profits up 72% in 2011, as spending in China and other Asian markets offset slower growth in Europe and the US, the company said. Analysts expect China to unseat Japan as the largest luxury goods market by the end of the decade. The Wall Street Journal (29 Mar.)  | RadioShack has a global presence and a variety of innovative products and services. With reasonable investment levels and hundreds of potential markets, a RadioShack franchise represents an exciting opportunity for you to associate with a powerful retail brand. Click here to learn more. |
 | NRF News |  |  | | - NRF Supply Chain Summit speakers discuss issues impacting regulation, responsibility and management
Attendees of NRF's Global Supply Chain Summit, May 6 to 8 in Atlanta, will learn from experienced leaders and retail experts about meeting the complex challenges of supply chain management. Rajan Penkar, SVP and president of supply chain for Sears Holdings Corp., will headline the event and discuss supply chain implications of an integrated retail model. Alison Levine, adjunct professor at the U.S. Military Academy, will share the importance of taking risks and developing teams prepared for the unpredictable. And Kirk Lippold, commander of the USS Cole, will emphasize the importance of leadership and accountability in the crux of a difficult situation. Learn more and register.
| SmartQuote | | | |  | One is never more on trial than in the moment of excessive good fortune."
--Lew Wallace,
American general, statesman, lawyer and author  |
| | This SmartBrief was created for cpgbrokers.data@blogger.com
|
Gucci stores in 11 cities including New York, Paris and Tokyo have launched a personalized men's tailoring service called "Made to Measure," with a glossy ad campaign that features actor James Franco. 
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please comment thoughtfully CPG Brokers, your best resource to optimize your in store self exposure and maximize sku distribution.