Walmart Tests Body Cameras to Shield Workers from Rising Customer Violence
Walmart launches a pilot program equipping employees with body cameras amid escalating in-store violence, with 473 gun-related incidents reported since 2020. Unlike other retailers' anti-theft focus, this initiative specifically aims to protect workers from aggressive customer interactions.
TGI Fridays Declares Bankruptcy Amid Post-Pandemic Restaurant Industry Turmoil
TGI Fridays' parent company files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection following dramatic reduction in U.S. locations from 237 to 163. The casual dining chain aims to restructure operations while keeping remaining restaurants open, citing COVID-19 impact and increased competition.
Major Drugstore Chains Overhaul Operations Amid Retail Challenges
CVS and Walgreens initiated dramatic transformations in 2024, closing hundreds of stores and revamping business strategies under new leadership. The pharmacy giants struggled with declining front-end sales while seeking to modernize their century-old retail model.
Cash Tops Holiday Wish Lists as Young Americans Prioritize Financial Flexibility
A LendingTree survey reveals that 49% of Americans, particularly Gen Z and millennials, prefer cash gifts this holiday season, with most planning to use it for bills or personal purchases. Economic pressures are reshaping holiday traditions as nearly one-third of Americans opt out of gift-giving due to high costs.
Global Black Friday Protests Target Amazon's Labor Practices
Amazon workers across 20+ countries are organizing strikes and protests during Black Friday weekend, demanding better wages and working conditions in the annual 'Make Amazon Pay Day' campaign. The coordinated action comes amid strong market performance for the e-commerce giant, highlighting ongoing tensions between the company and its workforce.
Black Friday 2024: Retailers Face Uphill Battle for Consumer Attention
Major retailers grapple with a shortened holiday season and growing consumer skepticism around Black Friday deals, with 41% of promoted items showing no actual discounts. Despite challenges, U.S. sales are projected to reach $10.8 billion, as stores adapt with earlier promotions and enhanced shopping experiences.
Walmart Scales Back DEI Programs Under Conservative Pressure
Walmart, America's largest private employer, announces major changes to its diversity and inclusion initiatives amid pressure from conservative groups. The retail giant is discontinuing several programs while emphasizing a shift from DEI terminology to 'belonging,' reflecting broader corporate trends.
New York Retailers Proactively Implement Worker Safety Measures Ahead of Holiday Season
Several New York retailers are getting ahead of new state regulations by implementing worker safety measures before the busy holiday shopping period begins. The law requires safety plans, de-escalation training, and emergency alert systems to protect retail workers facing increasingly tense customer interactions.
Home Depot Co-Founder and Retail Pioneer Bernie Marcus Dies at 95
Bernie Marcus, who transformed Home Depot from startup to $392 billion retail giant, has died at 95. The Russian-Jewish immigrant's legacy includes both revolutionary retail success and extensive philanthropy through his $11 billion fortune.
Big Lots Accelerates Store Closures with 19 Additional Locations
Discount retailer Big Lots announces plans to shutter 19 more stores across multiple states as part of its strategic restructuring efforts. The company aims to optimize its network of 1,300 stores while investing in e-commerce and supporting affected employees through the transition.