Executive Summary

• This week’s note “From the Desk of Deborah Weinswig” discusses the situation of multi-channel retailers on both sides of the Atlantic, along with some possible actions that brick-and-mortar retailers can take in order to compete more effectively with online pure plays.
• Google is testing a new mobile tool called “Shop the look,” which aims to help shoppers who are not seeking a specific product. The tool lets consumers shop for items featured in images from brands, bloggers, retailers and publishers. Participating retailers pay on a cost-per-click basis and receive Google Shopping analytics.
• Germany’s Metro Group confirmed that it is proceeding with its plans to split its food and consumer electronics businesses. The separation will take place on September 30, when the wholesale and food business and its related business activities will be spun off to form one entity, and the consumer electronics business and its related activities will form the other entity.
• Walmart of Mexico and Central America is working to enhance its logistics and the integration of its digital platforms. The company is also working to ramp up its e-commerce offerings following Amazon’s entrance into the Mexican market.