Programs
Nordstrom Offers Early Access to Sale Based on Membership Tiers
The retailer has faced backlash as some items in its popular Anniversary Sale ran out before the sale’s official start time. Loyalty members had early access, causing the items to run out, and in some cases, forcing the retailer to cancel orders. “We’re sorry for any confusion around Early Access to shop the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale,” a Nordstrom spokesperson said. “Early Access is intended to reward our most loyal customers, Nordy Club Cardmembers. There are five statuses in The Nordy Club, each of which have varying Early Access benefits.”
Customer Experience
Toys R Us Is Coming Back with a Different Approach
Brick-and-mortar stores are focusing on experience to drive foot traffic. The toy retailer “is making a comeback in time for the 2019 holiday season with a new approach. Instead of providing mile-long aisles filled with a plethora of toys, the company is switching its focus to smaller stores that will feature interactive toy demonstrations, spaces for special events like birthday parties, new activities every day, and open play areas.”
Walmart Focuses on Integrating Stores and Digital
The retailer is making organizational changes aimed to improve the process of unifying its in-store and digital experiences. “Our customers want one, seamless Walmart experience,” says CEO Doug McMillon. “Earning more of our customers’ business in food and consumables is foundational to our strategy, and, at the same time, we will expand our ability to serve them with general merchandise in stores and through our broad e-commerce assortment as we continue to invest and build our e-commerce business.”
Anthem Consumers Will Be Able to Pay for Doctor’s Visits Via Phone
The insurer is embracing digital experience and convenience. Anthem “is launching a new app that will help consumers—including people who don’t have its insurance—to schedule and pay for medical visits through their smartphones, as well as learn potential diagnoses and text with doctors.”
Tech
Regulator Ends Uber Eats’ Stiffing of Restaurants
In Australia, the delivery service can no longer leave restaurants responsible for problems with delivery. “Uber Technologies Inc. will no longer be able to charge restaurants in Australia for delivery mishaps outside their control, after the practice was deemed unfair in a rebuke for tech giants seeking to keep delivery costs low in a rapidly growing sector.”