REI Re/Supply returns feature

A Conversation with REI On Its Approach to Recommerce, Returns

| Mike O'Brien

Outdoor gear retailer REI has been at the forefront of recommerce, creating a successful channel by viewing returns not as a cost center but a revenue driver. It also helps REI achieve its sustainability goals while also spurring growth. Matthew Bergerson, REI’s DVP of returns and circular economy, talks about the company’s views on reverse logistics, circularity, sustainability and its customer ethos.

Trove recommerce trade-in feature

Recommerce Platform Trove Looks to European, 3PL, Vertical Expansions

| Mike O'Brien

Recommerce platform Trove has raised $30 million in a Series E round, bringing its total haul to more than $150 million as integrates its software with major 3PLs, eyes European expansion and plans to add vertical categories later this year beyond its sweet spot of outdoor and luxury retailers and brands. Trove powers recommerce for Carhartt, lululemon, Patagonia, REI, Allbirds and Levi Strauss.

new Black Friday feature

When Black Friday Comes, 2022 Edition

| Mike O'Brien

Black Friday looked good compared to an average day this year or even a year ago, but less so when compared to 2019. Online, sales were healthier, but just a 2.3% gain from 2021, Adobe said. Lululemon Athletica, American Eagle Outfitters and Victoria’s Secret were winners, and Gap, Banana Republic and Hollister were challenged.

MCM CommerceChat podcast

Tackling the Challenges of Store Inventory Accuracy

| Mike O'Brien

If stores are the weak link in inventory accuracy, how do you improve it to avoid stock-outs and dissatisfied customers? Steve DeNunzio of Ohio State’s graduate logistics program covers the challenges and solutions in this MCM CommerceChat podcast. He’ll also lead this discussion at Ecommerce Operations Summit in Columbus, OH.

Most Retailers Delivered on Time This Christmas, Clearing a Lowered Bar

| Mike O'Brien

Retailers lowered the bar for Christmas season fulfillment, then easily cleared it, according to Kurt Salmon. Ninety-three percent of retailers tracked were able to process and deliver customer orders by the last guaranteed delivery date. But 33% of them ditched their last order promise date as Christmas approached.

Lululemon Announces New Loyalty Program

| Daniela Forte

Lululemon has been testing a loyalty program that charges its members $128 a year, a steep rate considering Amazon charges $119 annually for Prime membership, but one the company feels can be increased based on positive early returns and the value it offers. Here is a look at some of the membership benefits.

Lululemon Reports Double-Digit Online Growth, Strong Comps

| Daniela Forte

Lululemon reported 48% growth in direct-to-customer sales during its second quarter. The apparel brand saw strong online traffic and a higher conversion rate resulting in a 47% comp increase. Ecommerce contributed $167 million or 23% of Lululemon’s topline. See which categories did well during the second quarter.

lululemon athletica Inc. CEO Laurent Potdevin Steps Down

| MCM staff

lululemon athletica inc. announced that Laurent Potdevin has resigned as CEO and as a member of the company’s Board of Directors, effective immediately. See what other corporate changes are being made within the company with Potdevin’s departure.