Merger of Dick's Sporting Goods and Foot Locker

Dick's Sporting Goods plans to buy Foot Locker for about $2.4 billion, aiming to expand its reach and complement its customer base with Foot Locker's urban consumer market and sneaker culture exposure. Despite Foot Locker's struggles, the merger is expected to enhance both companies' positions in the industry.

Consumer Spending Habits in April 2025

American consumers spent more at restaurants, appliance stores, garden and home improvement centers, and home furniture retailers in April. Despite warnings of economic impact from tariffs, spending at dining establishments, appliance stores, and furniture stores saw significant increases compared to the previous year.

Retail Opposition to Trump's Tariff Policy

Big retail has expressed displeasure with President Trump's America First policy of reciprocal tariffs, despite initially supporting his agenda. The National Retail Federation (NRF) now opposes these policies, citing increased costs for American families.

Fluctuating Egg Prices in the U.S.

President Trump campaigned on lowering egg prices in 2024. Wholesale egg prices have decreased significantly, but retail prices for consumers are still high due to factors like avian influenza and inflation. The USDA announced a $1 billion strategy to address the issue, including biosecurity measures and exploring vaccine research.

Connecticut Couple Arrested for $1 Million Lululemon Theft

A Connecticut couple was arrested for allegedly stealing $1 million in Lululemon products using organized retail crime tactics across multiple states. They were caught after a theft in Minnesota and found with stolen goods in their hotel room. The couple is accused of causing significant losses to Lululemon stores.

Walmart Store Closures in 2024

Walmart has closed nine stores across the US in 2024, signaling a bleak future for shoppers. This is part of a larger trend in the retail sector as stores are becoming less relevant.

Wayfair opens its first physical store near Chicago

Online home goods retailer Wayfair is opening its first physical store near Chicago, joining other digitally native companies moving into brick-and-mortar retail. This trend reflects challenges in e-commerce like privacy changes and competition from online marketplaces. Despite the growth of online shopping, the majority of retail sales still happen offline. Direct-to-consumer brands are expanding into physical stores to boost sales and profitability, but face challenges and risks in this transition.

Closure of 99 Cents Only Stores

The discount chain 99 Cents Only is closing all 371 store locations due to a tough economic climate and the impact of the pandemic, inflation, and shifting consumer demand.

Macy's Department Store Restructuring

Macy's plans to close 150 department stores to focus on luxury goods, shifting away from traditional middle-class shoppers. The company will open more high-end stores like Bloomingdale's and Bluemercury, and add smaller stores at outdoor shopping centers.

Macy's Transformation Strategy

Macy's is undergoing a transformation by closing underperforming stores, focusing on luxury brands like Bloomingdale's and Bluemercury, and opening smaller stores away from malls to attract wealthier shoppers. The company is aiming to boost its stock price and sales amidst increasing competition in the retail sector.