Netflix will soon begin rewarding binge-watchers. Starting in Q1 2024, it will serve subscribers of its ad-supported tier an ad-free episode after they have watched three consecutive episodes. It will also introduce QR codes to ads in the U.S. early next year as part of a series of updates announced yesterday, one year after it introduced ads.
Hanesbrands is pondering a sale of its Champion sportswear brand to cut costs and reduce debt, and WHP Global and Authentic Brands Group have reportedly emerged as possible buyers. The company said it started exploring strategic options in September, and CNBC reports a sale is not expected until at least next year… Michaels is moving onto Etsy’s turf. After a three-month beta test, the specialty arts & crafts retailer is officially launching MakerPlace by Michaels, an online marketplace offering handmade goods, artist-led classes, how-to guides, and more. The MakerPlace marketplace features dozens of categories of handmade items, including jewelry, home décor, art, accessories, crafting arts, bath and beauty and clothing.
AutoNation has unveiled a new e-commerce platform. The automotive goods retailer has launched AutoNationParts.com, a new website enabling customers to purchase automotive parts and accessories at competitive prices, with the items shipped to their homes. The site, which features guaranteed-to-fit genuine manufacturer parts from more than 25 brands, is being launched to meet growing demand from DIY mechanics and “do-it-for-me” customers who want to purchase parts online and have them expertly installed by their chosen mechanic, AutoNation said.
Chicken Salad Chick is sweetening its menu offerings via an acquisition. The fast-growing, fast-casual chicken salad restaurant chain has acquired Piece of Cake, which operates 10 stores in the metro Atlanta area. After the close of the deal, Chicken Salad Chick plans to bring the bakery’s cakes to its 245 restaurants, where they will be offered as the signature dessert after successful market tests across select locations.
Through an expanded partnership with Chicory, Albertsons will be able to send products directly to carts at all of its banner stores via Chicory’s shoppable recipe technology and in-recipe contextual advertisements. The direct shoppable integration promises a more seamless shopping experience for Albertsons customers within Chicory’s recipe network… It was a banner Q3 for Publix Super Markets, which announced higher sales and earnings. The Florida retailer reported a 7.2% bump in sales to reach $14 billion. Sales comps were also up, edging 4.3% higher… 7-Eleven selected 49 up-and-coming brands to join the convenience store retailer’s Brands with Heart showcase. The five-year-old program gives chosen brands the opportunity to enter a new retail channel with the chance to see their products on the shelves across 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores in the U.S.