CPG Brands, Know the New Ad Playbook

| Jordan Rost

Long before DTCs and DNVBs rode social, mobile, and ecommerce to steal mindshare and market share, the earliest, largest CPG brands were built with broad reach on television. Ever since, a digital divide has separated winners and losers. Now, with streaming hot, TV has joined the upstarts in the CPG digital marketers’ basket. 

Gift Cards: Popular with Shoppers, Fraudsters

| Monica Eaton

The ease and convenience of gift cards means they can be bought and delivered without ever needing to set foot in a store. However, the convenience, ease of use and flexibility of gift cards is also what makes them popular with digital fraudsters. Despite their earning potential, merchants need to be alert to these risks.

Alex and Ani Files for Chapter 11 Protection

| Mike O'Brien

Alex and Ani, the Rhode Island-based retailer which reached huge popularity a decade ago with its inexpensive bangles and charm bracelets promoting spirituality and good vibes, has filed for has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company, owned by a UK concern, has faced poor sales, lawsuits and internal conflicts.