Ontario’s Superior Court approves Canadian Tire’s $30M purchase of Hudson’s Bay’s IP. Generative AI may ease retail labour strains by cutting inefficiencies, says Cognizant. New U.S. tariffs threaten logistics stability despite a steady 2024. E-commerce spending is rising among 18–35-year-olds, led by convenience and digital habits. DHL joins Shopify Shipping in the U.S. and Germany, offering merchants discounted rates.
Court Approves Canadian Tire’s Hudson’s Bay IP Deal
Canadian Tire’s $30M purchase of Hudson’s Bay’s intellectual property has been approved by Ontario’s Superior Court. The deal follows Hudson’s Bay’s final store closures on June 1, ending over 300 years of retail history. Despite 17 global bids, no buyer committed to reviving the brand, signaling a full retail exit including its joint venture with RioCan.
Source: Retail Insider
AI Helps Retail Tackle Labour Gaps and Boost Efficiency
Retail’s labour challenges may ease with generative AI, says Cognizant’s Scott TumSuden, who sees it cutting inefficiencies and automating low-value tasks. AI is also enhancing employee training and support without replacing jobs. The technology is expected to create a more agile workforce focused on delivering better service.
Source: Retail Insider
Trade War Reignites Instability in U.S. Logistics
The U.S. logistics sector faces renewed disruption from a global trade war and new tariffs, despite a stable 2024. Logistics costs held steady last year, but companies now face rising expenses and volatile demand. Businesses are shifting to faster, more flexible planning to manage growing uncertainty.
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Young Shoppers Drive E-Commerce, Want Better Delivery
Consumers aged 18 to 35 are leading e-commerce growth, with 43% increasing online spending, says Descartes Systems Group. Yet 79% report delivery issues—much higher than other age groups. Retailers risk losing this key demographic unless they improve delivery experiences.
Source: Inside Logistics
DHL-Shopify Integration Eases Shipping for Sellers
DHL is now pre-integrated with Shopify Shipping in the U.S. and Germany, offering merchants discounted rates and simplified logistics. The partnership removes the need for separate onboarding and handles complex shipping requirements. By 2026, the service will expand globally, including DDP options that eliminate surprise fees for buyers.
Source: Supply Chain Dive
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