November 15, 2017

Who’s Left Standing

If you want your brand to exist in 5 years, you must do at least two of three things

Your stores survived 2017. Congratulations are in order. But don't get too comfortable; the carnage is far from over. Investors are still dumping retail stocks and store closings continue at a record pace. 2017 might very well go down as one of the worst for the existing retail industry ever. Until 2018, that is. If...

November 15, 2017

Research Issue 29

What Will Continue to Stand?

Placemaking in Retail Development

Much of the conversation around the retail industry this past year has centered on the trends of online consumer experiences and the relevance, or lack thereof, of "brick-and-mortar" stores. While we know consumers find convenience and value in online experiences, the value of "brick-and-mortar" to retail companies ranges from expanding brand reach to maintaining brand...

November 15, 2017

Trends Issue 29

The X-Factor

Think Expectations, Then Experience

The X-Factor, as defined by the Oxford English Dictionary, is "an indefinable but important element, esp. one that sets something or someone apart." Applied to the retail industry, it's worth asking: What sets certain store brands apart? For Walmart, it's everyday low prices (“Save Money, Live Better.") At Target, a high-style brand with low prices...

November 15, 2017

Trends Issue 29

A Few of our Favorite Things

The Best of 2017

This special holiday issue of WayfinD wouldn't be complete without a list of some sort that encompasses all of the stuff we loved about 2017 – because let's face it, we're optimists; glass half full kind of people. So let's look back on 2017 with a smile, awe and a little bit of crazy for...

November 15, 2017

What If... Issue 29

What if your e-com sales surpassed your store sales?

A surge is coming in online sales, and it's quickly becoming a reality that online sales could, and most likely will, surpass in-store sales for first time in history. According to Adobe's holiday retail report, online sales are expected to rise 13.8% this holiday season. Are you ready? Surveys conducted show this projected increase in...