Executive Summary

November 24, 2019

• This week’s note “From the Desk of Deborah Weinswig” looks at the declining importance of Black Friday as holiday shopping spreads throughout the year.

In the news this week:

• Kroger has partnered with vertical farming startup Infarm to install hydroponic systems to grow produce on site at 15 of its Quality Food Centers (QFCs).
• John Lewis and Waitrose are trialing a new experience concept in the John Lewis Southampton store, including stay-and-play gadget areas and short courses on photography, barista skills, wreath-making and modern calligraphy.
• Burberry has partnered with WeChat owner Tencent to open a social retail concept store in Shenzhen that will combine social media and retail.