Mixed, but Optimistic Outlook on Retail Economy from Economists at NRF

In a “K-shaped” economy, higher-income households are getting richer (and spending more), whereas lower-income households are getting poorer (and spending less).

ICONES OF MARKETING AND PROCESSING CHANNELS ARE CONNECTED BY SEVERAL WHITE LINES LEADING TO THE BOTTOM OF THE IMAGE. THE SYMBOLS HOVER IN FRONT OF SHELVES IN A WAREHOUSE.

The Trends That Will Define Retail Supply Chains in 2026

As these innovations take hold, the retail industry will move closer to a future where supply chains are deeply integrated with consumer behavior.

BRIGHT FLAGS ON POLES FLUTTER IN THE WIND OUTSIDE A BOX STORE

IKEA’s Retailer Uses Innovative Approach to Reducing Transport Emissions

Ingka is investing in electric and alternative-fuel vehicles to increase the proportion of home deliveries it fulfills with zero-emissions vehicles from 40% to 90% by 2028.

Walmart Looks to Expand Drone Deliveries to 150 Stores in 2026

Wing's delivery drones can carry up to five pounds at a time, and are capable of traveling at speeds of up to 60 miles an hour.

SHIPPING CONTAINERS BEARING THE FLAGS OF THE US AND CHINA SWING AND CLASH IN MIDAIR

U.S. Exports to China in 2025 Lowest Since 2019

President Donald Trump’s strategy of reducing the U.S.-China trade deficit is bringing down the volume of both imports and exports.

Tesla Loses EV Crown to BYD After Second Annual Sales Drop

Investors have paid little mind of late to Tesla’s decline in the global EV pecking order, with Musk prioritizing artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots.