#retail-transformation

#retail-transformation

For the past decade, it seems that while technology has become increasingly advanced, the online shopping experience has remained largely the same: endless scrolling, reviews we don't fully trust and price comparisons that often create more confusion than clarity. Despite improvements in logistics and payments, the core workflow-search, scroll, compare, repeat-has barely evolved. With the rise of A.I., that equilibrium is finally breaking.

According to Empire State Realty Trust, it has inked two new retail leases with Hoka and Tecovas to join its "North Sixth Street Collection" of stores in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, N.Y. The real estate company noted that Hoka is set to occupy a 4,148-square-foot retail store at 91 N. 6th Street, while Tecovas will take over the 4,174-square-foot space at 89 N. 6th Street. Details of when the stores will open to the public were not disclosed. FN has reached out to Hoka and Tecovas for comment.

Sephora isn't just shaping beauty-it's shaping culture. From its trendsetting beauty festival to partnering with Hulu for its Faces of Music docuseries to sponsoring women's sports, the brand has become a force at the intersection of beauty, entertainment, and lifestyle. Under the leadership of Artemis Patrick, CEO of Sephora North America, the company is amplifying this influence while also embarking on its largest capital project yet: a full redesign of all 600+ North American stores over the next five years.

URW has announced plans to redevelop Croydon town centre, transforming the Whitgift Centre into a mixed-use area with housing, shops, and green spaces, incorporating community feedback.

Brands are looking for better ways to operate, especially as consumer preferences shift towards sustainability. Resale models lead to improved profit margins and customer loyalty.

As AI becomes the curator and advisor in shopping, traditional retail's digital mall model will collapse, forcing major brands to reinvent their strategies.