Retail
Sephora Announces Largest Store Expansion in Its History
Sephora recently announced it will open 100 new stores across North America this year, marking the largest single-year North American expansion in the retailer’s history. This expansion doubles the number of openings from a year ago. “As I approach the close of my first year with Sephora, I am exceptionally proud of what the Sephora team has achieved, we are optimistically relentless and excited about our growth plans for the future,” Jean André Rougeot, CEO of Sephora Americas, said in a release. “Our focus continues to be on anticipating the beauty needs and desires of our diverse clients across North America. As we look at ways to continue to be more inclusive and accessible, brick & mortar continues to be a huge opportunity for us to deepen emotional connections with our clients and local communities.”
Customer Service
T-Mobile & Metro by T-Mobile Nab J.D. Power’s Top Spots for Wireless Customer Care
T-Mobile received a record-breaking highest score in the J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Wireless Customer Care Full-Service Performance Study—Volume 1. This is the 19th time T-Mobile has ranked highest among full-service providers – more than any brand in the history of the study. Metro by T-Mobile was first in the J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Wireless Customer Care Non-Contract Performance Study — Volume 1 among Full-Service wireless providers. “We launched Team of Experts in August 2018, and we’ve taken the top J.D. Power Wireless Customer Care spot every single time since — that’s no coincidence, it’s just proof that our game-changing customer-first model WORKS,” John Legere, CEO of T-Mobile, said in a news release.
Loyalty / Rewards Program
Wine Lovers Embrace Breakthrough Loyalty Program’s Generous Reward Opportunities
The Grand Reserve Rewards program from Vertical Finance, which launched just prior to Thanksgiving, rewards wine drinkers for their allegiance to a category of wine rather than to any brand or merchant. Users are encouraged to experience a broader range of wineries, wine shops and wine clubs. The
Grand Reserve Rewards Catalog features more than 200 wine-related offerings. Members of the loyalty program now can earn rewards points at more than 17,000 merchants.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Aerie’s new swimsuits are made from 1 million recycled plastic bottles
Aerie – AEO Inc.’s lingerie and lifestyle brand – announces its commitment to sustainability with a new swimwear line called Real Good Swim, joining several brands working toward more eco-friendly products. “The 10-piece collection, priced between $19 and $54, is made from a fabric called Repreve, which is made from 82% rPET (more commonly known as recycled plastic bottles),” an AEO Inc. post states.
Meet the Purpose-Driven Brands in PepsiCo’s Second Annual North America Greenhouse Program
PepsiCo recently announced the 10 emerging food and beverage brands that will join its second annual North America Greenhouse program. Each of the startups will receive $20,000 in grant funding and participate in a six-month business program. “PepsiCo's Greenhouse program aims to accelerate growth for entrepreneurs who have built purpose-driven brands that are changing the way consumers eat and drink," Daniel Grubbs, Managing Director PepsiCo Ventures Group, said in a release. “We provide a grant and mentorship to these companies, and we also draw great value from working closely with the entrepreneurs who are at the forefront of industry trends.”