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Amazon narrows list to 20 for its second headquarters

Jan 18, 2018
The retail giant has narrowed the list after sorting through 238 proposals.
David Ryder / Getty Images

Credit card companies make it easier to return unwanted goods

Jan 10, 2018
Return season is upon us, and one out of four people is expected to return a holiday gift, according to a new survey from Wallethub. But what if that holiday gift you bought for yourself turned out to be the mistake and the window for returns has closed? Your credit card just might be able […]

Are fulfillment center jobs a good fit for laid-off retail workers?

Jan 5, 2018
They pay better, but require different skills.
Workers pack and ship customer orders at the 750,000-square-foot Amazon fulfillment center in August in Romeoville, Illinois.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

As retailers shutter stores, mall operators fight back

Jan 3, 2018
This year could see thousands of additional store closures in malls across the country, according to a new study from commercial real estate company Cushman & Wakefield. That’s on top of some 9,000 store closings last year. Mall operators are trying a variety of options to secure their own future. Click the audio player above […]

The retail industry got a gift this holiday season

Jan 2, 2018
Retailers posted strong sales in late 2017, despite the growth of online shopping.
 “2017 was a real rocky road for a lot of retailers, especially in the apparel sector,” says Elizabeth Holmes, who covers retail. Above, Christmas Eve shoppers in New York City in 2015.
Kena Betancur/Getty Images

Why the retail apocalypse isn't being taken seriously

Jan 2, 2018
The number of retail workers far exceeds the number of coal miners or recent manufacturing employees, points out Columbia University professor Mark Cohen.
Shoppers are packed into Tysons Corner Center, a mall in suburban Washington.
Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images

Amazon has another holiday for you

Dec 28, 2017
Amazon hopes for more spending and subscribers on “Digital Day.” Click the audio player above to hear the full story. 

For public good, not for profit.

It’s the week of epic returns. And, stores hope, added sales

Dec 27, 2017
The National Retail Federation estimates that 11 percent of online purchases will be returned this year. Even though more people are buying online, they are more inclined to make in-store returns, which brick-and-mortar stores hope will translate into added sales.  Click the audio player above to hear the full story. 

Holiday shopping reflects our personal economy

When we feel secure with our finances, we're more likely to splurge on that hot new toy.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images

Stores switch holiday sales strategy

Dec 22, 2017
You’ve waited until the last minute to do your Christmas shopping. It’s too late to order stuff online and get it by Christmas Day so you have to head to the mall. Brick-and-mortar stores have the advantage now. And they may not be offering the best last-minute deals.  Click the audio player above to hear […]