Kroger Revamps E-Commerce Strategy to Boost Experience and Profitability
Kroger recently revamped its e-commerce strategy aiming to simplify the customer experience while driving stronger, more profitable online growth. As part of the shift, the company expects to generate approximately $400 million in improved e-commerce operating profit by 2026. To enable this transformation, Kroger will also take $2.6 billion in impairment and related charges, primarily tied to the closure of select automated fulfillment centers.
The retailer is moving toward a hybrid fulfillment model that leverages its extensive store footprint, expanded third-party delivery partnerships, and targeted automation. Kroger is deepening its collaboration with Instacart and broadening access through DoorDash Marketplace.
Additionally, a new customer experience via Uber Eats Marketplace will go live in early 2026, offering delivery in as little as 30 minutes. Kroger will maintain automated fulfillment centers in high-demand regions while piloting “capital-light, store-based automation” elsewhere.
Learn more here.
Cinemark Rings in the Holidays with Classics and Festive Deals
Cinemark is launching a holiday-themed offering, the Holiday Movie Clubhouse, beginning November 29, which brings beloved seasonal films such as A Christmas Story (1983), The Grinch (2018) and Elf (2003) back onto the big screen, with ticket pricing at just $5 on select days (Wednesdays and Saturdays) from Nov 29 through Dec 17.
The initiative is being sponsored by Universal Pictures’s Wicked: For Good, and is available at more than 260 U.S. Cinemark locations. In addition to affordable movie access, the chain is offering $1 off on kids’ snack packs and popcorn/drink combos during program showtimes.
Beyond the film re-runs, Cinemark is running several festive deals: from now through December 31, customers purchasing $50 in gift cards will receive a bonus $10 card; and there’s a 20% discount on 12-month subscriptions to their Movie Club program through December 1. They also tease additional Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers and collectible merchandise promotions.
Learn more here.
Hilton Honors Unveils Faster Elite Status and New Ultra-Premium Diamond Reserve Tier
In January 2026, Hilton will roll out major enhancements to its loyalty program, making elite status within reach for more members and introducing an entirely new top tier. The mid-tier Gold status will now require just 25 nights per year (down from 40) and will maintain the same benefits, such as space-available room upgrades, F&B credits or breakfast depending on the brand, and an 80% bonus on Points. The Diamond status requirement will drop from 60 to 50 nights.
Hilton is introducing a brand-new ultra premium tier called Diamond Reserve, targeted at its most loyal travelers. To qualify, members must accomplish 80 nights and spend $18,000 in eligible annual spend. Benefits include a Confirmable Upgrade Reward (lock-in a premium room or up to a one-bedroom suite at booking), guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout, 24/7 dedicated elite customer service, access to “Premium Clubs” and a 120% bonus on Points.
Despite all the changes, Hilton emphasizes that many of the longstanding favorite features of Hilton Honors remain unchanged. These include no blackout dates and no resort fees on reward stays booked with all Points, the “Fifth Night Free” benefit on reward stays booked entirely with Points, and the ability to combine Points + money.
Learn more here.