Global insights on omnichannel retail and commerce from the Doing Business in Bentonville Staff Report Team—expert analysis and trends shaping Bentonville’s role in the future of business.
Social media platforms drive product discovery and trends, but operational realities and in‑store dynamics often prevent viral products from becoming consistent retail bestsellers.
Bentonville’s local cafés — from Onyx Coffee Lab to Airship and Third Space — are more than coffee stops; they’re community hubs where retail professionals meet, connect, and spark ideas.
President Trump hosted top oil executives to promote investment in Venezuela’s energy sector amid broader U.S. strategic and energy goals.
JPMorgan Chase will use a new AI tool, Proxy IQ, to replace external proxy advisory firms for U.S. shareholder voting decisions, marking a first for major asset managers.
Retailers are transforming returns management from a cost center into a margin recovery engine through structured reverse logistics and value‑preserving pathways.
Walmart rolls out Better Care Services, a digital health hub connecting customers with telehealth providers and offering a limited‑time $15 discount.
CEO exits in retail surged 116% in 2025 as economic stress, AI disruption, and post-pandemic burnout reshape leadership across the industry.
A growing wave of CEO exits in the retail sector—up 116% year-over-year—is reshaping leadership amid economic pressures and the rise of AI.
General Motors will take an additional $6 billion charge as it retreats from EV production, citing canceled supplier contracts and shifting U.S. policies.
Retailers and brands must prioritize digital shelf audits, AI tools, and PDP optimization to win in today’s omnichannel marketplace.
Independent vendors say Amazon’s AI “Buy for Me” shopping tool lists and sells products without consent, leading to stock errors and reputational risk.
Cox Automotive forecasts a 2.4% dip in U.S. new vehicle sales in 2026, signaling a cooler but still steady auto market.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection transitions to electronic tariff refunds in 2026 and clarifies refund procedures amid tariff litigation and stacking overpayments.
Transpacific ocean freight rates jumped early in 2026 as Lunar New Year demand and carrier rate increases lift prices, even amid broader market volatility in global shipping.
FedEx Easy Returns launches box‑free, label‑free returns at 3,000 locations, helping retailers cut costs and improve post‑purchase experiences through consolidated reverse logistics.
Saks Global’s missed interest payment sparks S&P downgrade, vendor tension, and bankruptcy fears amid fallout from its costly Neiman Marcus merger.