Paying for return shipping is the hardest part of returning an online order for 25% of US digital shoppers, nearly double the share who cite waiting for a refund (18%), according to a November 2025 survey from Locus and Dynata.
Lowe’s wants to hook Gen Alpha on home improvement with the introduction of theLowe’s Kids Club, a rewards program with perks like in-store workshops, access to digital content, and a lollipop with every visit.
Criteo bets on ChatGPT commerce in a pitch deck as its new ad pilot promises fast setup and measurable AI traffic.
The Senate is tightening teen ad targeting; the House will vote on a bill that bars behavior-based ads for under-17s, pushing brands toward contextual plays.
TJX, Ross Stores, and Burlington are bullish about their 2026 prospects as they gain share with shoppers.
Chatbot use is increasing basket sizes and conversion rates.
Beehiiv is challenging Substack, as an ad network and flat fees lure creators; but scaling inventory and measurement will test its $50 million goal.
Inflation and tariffs temper seasonal sales, shifting momentum to ecommerce.
As device sales stall, AI coaching and community features make subscriptions stickier than fitness gadgets.
Consumer interest in chatbot-based checkout isn’t quite there, but AI-based discovery is on the rise.
The issuer builds on an industry trend of cuts that reflect economic fragility.
Consumers find credit management within card options favorable to fintechs.
Microsoft’s 2027 console-PC hybrid may turn fragmented players into one measurable media buy.
Parents aren’t as informed on the latest vaccine recommendations, stretching appointments with risk and safety talks.
Many act on their advice—even over doctors’—reshaping how young consumers make decisions about healthcare.
Steady telehealth use among patients supports many market players, but winners will pair Rx access with user experience, AI, and caring providers.
Even with deep discounts, sharper digital marketing will be needed to raise awareness among cash-pay patients.
On today’s podcast episode, we discuss the three big questions surrounding Spotify right now: What will the audio giant do about AI slop? Can it generate significant revenue from advertising? Will people sit down in their living rooms and turn on a podcast to watch, en masse? And more. Join Senior Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, along with Senior Analyst Ross Benes and Senior Editor Daniel Konstantinovic. Listen everywhere, and watch on YouTube and Spotify.
Podcast growth outpaces social, with trusted hosts driving purchases and attention other feeds can’t match.