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Product Substitution: How Savvy Retailers and Manufacturers can Build Supply Chain Resiliency, Reduce Costs and Improve Customer Experiences

Retail TouchPoints

When customers place ecommerce orders, the last thing they want is an unhappy surprise. Shipping delays and stockouts lead to frustration and disappointment, especially when logistical problems impact time-sensitive purchases, such as special occasion gifts, event tickets or prescription medications.

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Harnessing the Potential of Returnless Refunds to Improve Profitability and Customer Experience

Retail TouchPoints

This approach — where customers are refunded without being required to return an unwanted item — has its place, but it’s not a blanket solution. Returnless refunds also make sense for companies shipping heavy or bulky items that are more expensive to ship. Of course, no good deed goes unpunished.

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Can Nearshoring Prevent the Next Supply Chain Crisis?

Retail TouchPoints

Just as you don’t start worrying about your hot water heater’s performance until you get shocked by an icy-cold shower, most of us — even inside the retail industry — don’t think about supply chains until they stop working. This is excepting, of course, the professionals tasked with maintaining and operating those supply chains.)

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Michaels Wins Educational Supplies Contract for Texas Schools

Retail TouchPoints

Michaels has been awarded an educational school supplies cooperative contract for Texas’ Region 4, an eight -county area in southeast Texas serving more than 1.2 million students. Michaels launched its Makerplace by Michaels marketplace in November 2023 and collaborated with PetSmart for a holiday-themed promotion in December.

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The New Toolkit for Supply Chain Agility

Retail TouchPoints

Global conflicts, economic uncertainty and volatile demand patterns have thrown supply chains (and the retailers that rely on them) for a loop. Experts agree that the supply chain has more impact on the customer experience than ever before. Top Supply Chain Investments.

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3 Ways SMBs Can Deliver a More Personalized Shipping Experience

Retail TouchPoints

With supply chain disruptions still making headlines, small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to remain competitive may contend with inventory challenges and rising rates of theft and damage in the last mile. Here are three ways SMBs can deliver a more personalized shipping experience to build a happier, more loyal customer base.

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How Technology Fuels Customer Experience and Brand Value

Retail TouchPoints

At a time when brand interactions bridge both digital and physical shopping, it is increasingly important for retailers to leverage technology to improve customer experiences and create value. Here are a few examples of how technology enhances customer experience and strengthens brand value.