Fall 2013

Today's shoppers have become much more adept at finding value. They are "channel surfing" with increased frequency to research products and find deals, and shopping more channel types in search of value and trip mission fit.

As many retailers struggle with unwieldy loyalty programs and the resulting mountains of data they create, CVS Caremark is working hard to create a best-in-class loyalty program that merges the latest technology with consumer insights.

7-Eleven in the U.S. is, in some respects, like a child: It's expected to grow big and healthy by following its parent's example.

These types of reports always come under scrutiny because not all of the "Leading Retailers" can be listed. But the objective of this special issue is to recognize retailers that are currently exhibiting best-in-class practices and performance across multiple channels.

As I sit here writing this issue's column on the Monday before Thanksgiving, my thoughts race ahead to the coming holiday season and how I might spend the precious vacation time I've accrued. I'm dreaming of completely unscheduled days devoted to nothing in particular.

Food is the final frontier for Walmart. And it's turning out to be one of the toughest the company has ever encountered.

Wegmans is a testament to the importance of family.

First Amazon became the world's biggest bookseller. Then it came the world's largest online retailer. Can this success translate to groceries?

Retail stores come in almost as many sizes and shapes as the products they sell. From convenience stores to supercenters and huge clubs, consumers now have a choice of more formats than ever.

Many grocers are experimenting with new formats lately, hoping to find the perfect mix of products and features that match their customers' busy, value-conscious lifestyles.

For a long time, Target Corp.'s target has been just above Walmart.