Executive Summary

• This week’s note “From the Desk of Deborah Weinswig” discusses our recent visit to the new Amazon Books store location in New York City.
• Target will invest $75 million in online mattress seller Casper, according to media reports. The San Francisco–based bedding maker typically sells online and ships mattresses directly to shoppers.
• UK GDP grew by 0.2% quarter over quarter versus a first estimate of 0.3%. The UK Office for National Statistics noted a slowdown in household expenditure growth, which decelerated to its slowest rate since the end of the first quarter of 2014.
• Swedish fashion retailer H&M has launched its loyalty scheme, H&M Club, in the UK. The program will reward customers with one point for every pound spent both in-store and online and provide members with exclusive offers and brand experiences.