L'Occitane CEO Leaves Post; Crocs Collaborates with Squishmallows in New Venture
In the world of retail, partnerships and expansions are the name of the game, and this season is no exception. Here's a roundup of some of the latest developments:
L.L. Bean Makes a Strategic Move
Outdoor apparel brand L.L. Bean is broadening its retail reach by partnering with Von Maur department stores. Starting this fall, L.L. Bean products will be available in Von Maur stores across 15 states, marking a significant expansion of L.L. Bean’s retail presence beyond its traditional direct-to-consumer and own-store channels [1].
Von Maur, a regional department store chain with a strong midwestern and southern U.S. footprint, offers L.L. Bean the opportunity to access a broader demographic and geographic market. This move could potentially increase brand visibility and sales among customers who may not have easy access to L.L. Bean’s standalone stores or e-commerce.
The partnership is expected to enhance market reach, strengthen brand association, and facilitate growth in the wholesale channel for L.L. Bean [1].
Squishmallows and Crocs Join Forces
On the other side of the retail spectrum, the cuddly Squishmallows brand has partnered with Crocs to release a limited-edition collection of shoe designs and Jibbitz charms. The collection, which consists of three shoe designs and five Jibbitz charms inspired by Squishmallows, is sure to be a hit with fans of both brands [2].
Holiday Inn Express and Mr. Eatwell Team Up
Holiday Inn Express has collaborated with designer Mr. Eatwell to launch limited-edition baby blue "Pancakesuits". Each purchase of the Pancakesuit with a warming pocket comes with a redeemable 50,000 rewards points good for a one-night stay at Holiday Inn Express hotels [3].
Other Notable Developments
- Adobe Analytics predicts online sales in the U.S. will increase 8.4% year over year between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, reaching $240.8 billion [4].
- Purchases made via mobile devices are projected to increase 12.8% year over year to $128.1 billion and represent over half of all online shopping this season [4].
- Big Lots, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy at the start of the month, has launched an affiliate program that partners with influencers to share limited-time closeouts, bargains, and promotions with their audiences [5]. Influencers will earn a commission on referral sales.
- Tempur Sealy has agreed to divest 176 stores as it faces challenges from the Federal Trade Commission regarding its proposed merger with Mattress Firm [6].
- L'Occitane has created an office of the CEO and named three people to lead the company on an interim basis - board chairman Reinold Geiger, Chief Financial Officer Samuel Antunes, and General Counsel Ingo Dauer [7].
- Stitch Fix, a retailer known for curated boxes of items, warned investors that it won't return to growth until the end of fiscal year 2026 [8].
- Big Lots operates 37 stores in 15 states and plans to open two new physical locations by spring next year [9].
- The assortment includes clothing, footwear, accessories, and outerwear for men, women, and children, including tote bags, slippers, and fleeces [9].
[1] Source [2] Source [3] Source [4] Source [5] Source [6] Source [7] Source [8] Source [9] Source
- The outdoor industry expands as L.L. Bean enters into a partnership with Von Maur department stores, aiming to broaden their retail reach and strengthen brand association.
- In the fashion-and-beauty sector, Squishmallows collaborates with Crocs to release a limited-edition collection, catering to fans of both brands.
- Holiday Inn Express joins forces with designer Mr. Eatwell to launch "Pancakesuits," offering customers a unique product and potential rewards.
- AI and business strategies are resonating in the retail landscape, as Adobe Analytics predicts a 8.4% year-over-year increase in online sales this holiday season.
- The war for market share in the retail industry continues, as Big Lots collaborates with influencers to boost sales and Tempur Sealy agrees to divest stores due to competition concerns.
